Dream Destination: Santorini

Everyone has a dream destination, and Santorini has always been mine. So, when my (now) wife and I were planning our honeymoon last year, we knew that Oia—the picturesque, blue-roofed village at the top of the island of Santorini—was the perfect destination for a romantic getaway.

We chose to stay at the Katikies Hotel, which features a slightly more upscale version of the stark white cave houses that are so emblematic of the island. Our own cave house was just steps away from the stone path that leads from the beginning of Oia, snakes through a variety of homes, shops, and restaurants, and eventually—via a winding staircase that tumbles down into the sea—ends up at Amoudi Bay.

Amoudi Bay, a location also famed for having appeared in countless films, lived up to all of the hype. It is one of the best places on the island to view the infamous Santorini sunset, all while watching fisherman come in with their catch of the day. You can choose your own catch at one of the bay’s two restaurants. (We preferred Sunset Taverna, aptly named.) I can’t imagine that there is a better al fresco dining spot in all the world.

Since Oia is one of the most photographed Mediterranean locations, we knew what to expect. What we didn’t know, however, was that the island boasts a variety of different terrains, each with their own village and their own personality. We rented a car for three days while we were there, and—though driving on the island can be a bit of an adventure—I hate to think of what we would have missed had we not explored the whole island.

Our favorite find was Kamari beach, a black pebbled beach with mountain views, a whole avenue of charming shops and cafes, and an unmistakable European vibe. At the entrance to Kamari, there is an open-air cinema that shows many English-language films, and an evening there—with your love, a cold beer, and the island air—is one of the many attractions on the island that shouldn’t be missed.

Katikies Hotel
Oia (Ia), Santorini
+30 22860 71401
[email protected]

Danielle Aquiline is a constant state of wanderlust. Between travels, she is a college professor and a part-time lifestyle photographer in Chicago, IL. She is always searching for the next adventure.