OVERVIEW
Santorini needs no introduction. It is a unique tourist destination due to its beautiful beaches, its traditional architecture and its impressive caldera.
Who knows that Santorini has a lot to offer when it comes to hiking, though ? The thick network of paths facilitates exploring it on foot and those who will choose to discover the island by walking will be rewarded by the things they will have the chance to see.
In the western part of the island the sights from the track are simply breathtaking. At the beginning it is the blue of the sea that mingles with the blinding white of the traditional settlements and with the Cycladic churches with their specific blue domes.
As we go on, the track reveals the magnificent caldera, the amazingly beautiful and wild landscape and leads us to the famous Santorini sunset.
In the eastern part of the island the journey offers different sights. The track that cuts across the typical Cycladic landscape takes us to beautiful beaches of Santorini with its domineering weirdly shaped rocks - the result of the volcanic eruption thousands of years ago.
Tour Facts
Total Distance: 25,4km
Duration: 3 nights, 2 days walking
Minimum Daily Distance: 10,1m
Maximum Daily Distance: 15,3km
Code: STS02 Grade: Easy / Moderate
Season: April to October
Start of holiday: Fira
End of Holiday: Perissa
Time from Athens: Approx. 45min by car plus 3,5 hours by boat
2
Days Walking & Trekking
29.1 km
Total Distance
9.7 km
Average Daily Walking
Highlights
- The panoramic view of the caldera
- Traditional Cycladic settlements
- Unique beaches
- The Santorini sunset
- Traditional cuisine with dishes made of local products
Santorini Trail
Trip Code: STS02
Self-Guided
2 Days Hiking
Walking & Trekking
April to October
Moderate
MODERATE
4 Days from
450€
DAY 1 ARRIVAL TO SANTORINI ISLAND
Transfer from Athens to Rafina port by private car. Then arrival to Santorini port by ship
Approximately 3hours 30min
DAY 2 WALK FROM FIRA TO OIA
FIRA-IMEROVIGLI-OIA
Length: 10,1km
Ascent: 374 m
Descent: 458m
Flat walking: 1,43 km
Ascent length: 2,02 km
Descent length: 0,79 km
Duration(approximately): 3hours 50min
Difficulty 2/5
We start to walk probably one of the most beautiful trails in Greece. From fabulous Fira we walk towards the cable car. Walking through the inner road we reach the enchanting Imerovigli. Throughout the trail, the view of the caldera is breathtaking. Then we find the famous "skara" a large rock that dominates the middle of the caldera. It deserves a stop to admire the view of the volcano. Following the signs to Oia, we will cross the old path with remnants of the medieval city of Thira and we will ascend from the road to the "black" mountain where we will meet the Stavros chapel. From here on, the view of the settlement of Oia is amazing. We suggest choosing a spot on the cliffs and enjoying the sunset. It is a rare, beautiful sunset as the sun is literally sinking into the sea with background the picturesque and beautiful Oia. Then we head back to Oia, where we can wander around in the allays and relax in one of the many restaurants, cafes, and bars.
DAY 3 WALK FROM KAMARI TO PERISSA
KAMARI-PERISSA (option 1)
Length: 3,7km
Ascent: 230 m
Descent: 240m
Flat walking: 0,77km
Ascent length: 1,4km
Descent length:1,6 km
Duration(approximately): 2 hours
Difficulty 1/5
Today we will take a Taxi from Oia to the coastal settlement of the Kamari where the trail starts. From the parking lot at the end of the beach starts our ascension to Kamari and the chapel of the Zodohou Pigi with the beautiful view of the settlement and the beach. We continue and hike to the top of the hill where we will find the entrance of the archaeological site of the ancient Thira. Its well worth’s a short uphill ride and a visit to the archaeological site with the scattered ruins. Then we walk down to a delightful downhill path overlooking the beautiful beach of Perissa and the homonymous settlement. Before we arrive, we will see a short detour bypass which ends to the picturesque chapel of Panagia Katephiani. The view of the cliffs and the beach is impressive from this point. After a while, we reach our destination the Perissa. The choices here are plenty among enjoying nice traditional meals, relaxing or simply have fun.
KAMARI-PERISSA-VLYHADA-PERISSA (option2)
Length: 15,3km
Ascent: 280m
Descent: 304 m
Flat walking: 9,37km
Ascent length: 2,54km
Descent length: 2,52km
Duration(approximately): 5hours 15min
Difficulty 3/5
For those who seek a more challenging hiking experience they can continue from Perissa and walk the back and forth path to visit the amazing beach of Vlyhada We walk along the beach of Perissa and at the end of the beach, we follow an asphalt road that leads us to the provincial road. From there we come across a short path that leads us through the beautiful bay with sailing and traditional fishing boats. Then we move towards Vlyhada beach where we can admire the unique volcano rock formations. After enjoying the beautiful beach, we make the reverse route to Perissa. (Option 2).
DAY 4 RETURN TO ATHENS
After a hearty breakfast, we take a TAXI to the Santorini port. After a 3 hour and 30-minute voyage, we arrive at Rafina port where a private car will wait for us for our transfer to Athens. Approx. 45 minutes
Please note that the length of the trip does not include the distance from the path to your overnight accommodation.
About Route
 |
The trail of the first day starts at the picturesque village of Thira and after 10 km ends at Oia. The second day hikers are taken by car to the eastern part of the island, at Kamari, where they start a cyclic, 12 kms long track that takes them to the wonderful beach of Perisa and then back to Kamari.
The trail is described as moderate, with an average daily mileage of 12 kms, properly marked with hiking signs and sufficient path maintenance. The pathways have various textures and can be cobbled paths, dirt tracks, rarely small and possibly overgrown paths and even some tarmac paths near the villages
Time of Year
Satnorini is a must visit place of any season. Spring and autumn are, of course, the best choices for hiking and trekking because temperatures are milder and colours simply magnificent.It is not unusual to hike in summer but, especially during July and August we recommend that it should begin early in the morning as temperatures can get quite high during the day. In April and October there is a chance of shortage of options when it comes to tavernas and restaurants, particularly on weekdays.
Also from the beginning of June until mid-September Santorini has plenty of visitors on a daily basis so crowded paths should not be a surprise.
Navigation
The package you will get from us includes maps of the region and tour details that will help you find your way. The paths are very well maintained and there will be no missing signs or marks.
Experience & Fitness
This route is suitable for all people as needs only the basic physical condition.
Travel Insurance
Insurance does not included in the price. We strongly advise you to purchase one which covers you for the activity, emergency evacuation and hospital care.
Equipment
For this trip you don’t need to have some special hiking equipment with you.All you have to do is take the basic stuff that you will find listed in the information pack that will be sent to you.
Meals
Breakfast is included. For lunch you can either make something easy with the things you can buy at the local markets and just take it with you or maybe stop in a taverna en route.For dinner you can eat at local tavernas in the villages where you will be staying, or even enjoy a traditional dinner at the place of your accomodation. During this journey you will have the chance to try unique local dishes and products such as Santorini ‘s fava and of course, the fresh fish and sea food of the Aegean.
How far in advance do I need to book?
Santorini is an internationally famous tourist destination and highly popular.
Especially from June till mid-September it is overflowing with tourists.
For this particular period all accommodations are fully booked, at least six months before.
In order to find the ideal accommodation you should book at least 6 months in advance.
What happens if I can’t walk a stage?
If you want to skip a part of the trail you can call a local taxi and go straight to the next spot where we have arranged for your accomodation.The staff at the hotel can help you with that.
The guest houses and hotels in this itinerary are generally traditional small, and family-run, 3* or 4* properties. Any accommodation has been carefully selected because of their location, atmosphere and or exceptional service. All hotels and guesthouses are comfortable and fully equipped with heating, en-suite bathroom/shower, air-conditioning, telephone, and television.
Here are some of our choices so you will get a first general idea of what you can expect:
- Millos Villas Hotel
- Laokasti Villas
- Alia Hotel
After your booking you will be sent a detailed list with all the accommodations of the trip.
In case an accommodation we have chosen for you is fully booked, we will find a similar or better alternative.
Extra overnight:
You can book additional night(s) at any of the accommodations along the way. If you wish we can also book for you before and/or after the trip a hotel in Athens.
Single Rooms & Solo Walkers
Prices per person are for the double room. If you wish single rooms we would be happy to accommodate you although there is a single room supplement payable.
Solo walkers are also welcome for an additional charge.
Suggests you:
Are you looking for a short brake hiking holidays? Then you might be interested in Meteora Trail.
|
Select Your Trip STS02 Santorini Trail (3 nights, 2 days walking) 450€ per person |
 |
|
WHAT’S INCLUDED
|
 |
|
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
|
|