Santorini Greece (also known as Thira) is regarded by many as the most spectacular of the Greek islands. Thousands of tourists come every year to gape at the sea-filled caldera, a vestige of what was probably the world's largest volcanic eruption, ever. Despite the crowds who visit it in summer, Santorini's weirdness, apparent in its black-sand beaches and mighty cliffs, holds a distinct allure.

Its first inhabitants were the Minoans, who arrived here from Crete in 300o BC. A massive volcanic eruption, which occurred around 1459 BC, buried the middle part of the island and left a 'caldera' with high cliffs, now one of the world's most dramatic geological sights. According to one theory, the catastrophe destroyed not only Akrotiri but the entire Minoan civilisation, while another theory postulates that Santorini Greece was part of the mythical lost continent of Atlantis. Archaeological excavations in the late 196os onwards have uncovered the ancient Akrotiri town beneath the volcanic ash. This is the Aegean's best-preserved prehistoric settlement.
The most outstanding finds were the stunning frescos, which are now housed in the National Archaeological Museum in Athens. The ancient Thira town has ruins from Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine times, including temples, houses with mosaics, an agora, a theatre and a gymnasium, while the site also affords magnificent views.

The capital of Santorini island is Fira, and it is a lively tourist area and a stop for most cruise ships. If you want to stay just outside of Fira, consider Firostefani or Imerovigli, with the same magnificent views. On the caldera to the south is where we send our friends...to the quieter and romantic Oia.
There are interesting and charming towns in the centre of the island that are well worth exploring. The tallest mountain is Profitis Ilias, with a summit only 556 metres above sea level. While you're there, don't miss the live dig at fascinating Akrotiri, and for the culture buff you can also visit the ruins at Ancient Thira. The eastern side of Santorini is a sharp contrast where flat areas meet the beach. The land is flat and fertile. Kamari and Perissa are black sand and pebble beaches with crystal clear waters and a lively entertainment scene.

In its own right a unique destination, Santorini is a pole of attraction for tourists, historians, geologists, archaeologists, and people who wish to witness one of our planet's most significant geological phenomena - but still a rare natural beauty with one of the prettiest sunsets in the Mediterranean, especially from the town of Oia.
Striking Oia is also famous for its passageways, which get crowded in the evenings, and has several commercial galleries, as well as a maritime museum. The capital, Fira, is built on the edge of the caldera and has spectacular views of the cliff with their multicoloured strata of lave and pumice.
Its main streets are lined with souvenir shops, bars, restaurants and taverns. The island's uniquely flavoured wine, enjoying widespread recognition, has been a significant source of income for Santorini, and the new and old traditional wineries represent a valuable incentive for trips combining wine-tasting and business. The wide range of accommodation available combines the best of both worlds, with traditional guest-houses and modern establishments offering almost every facility under the sun, a personal approach, and in most cases a breathtaking view that will be very hard to forget. Santorini island's conference infrastructure and perfectly preserved cultural heritage classify it as the ideal destination for events of any magnitude, while famous establishments give organisers an unbeatable comparative advantage on a European and world-wide scale.

Tholos Resort
Imerovigli, Santorini island, Greece
In the wonderful area of Imerovigli, and on the cliff of Caldera, you can find Tholos Villas which is operated since 1992 and consists of luxury studios and apartments. More…

The Majestic Hotel
Fira, Santorini
Standing over the astaunding volcanic caldera, right at the entrance of the town of Fira, The MAJESTIC , is the only 5-star hotel on the island . More…

Astarte Suites
Kaldera Akrotiriou, Kaldera-Akrotiri (Santorini Greece)
Astarte is a group of 9 luxurious rooms. Each of them has its own style and character. In one of the most beautiful spots of the island, facing the blue Aegean Sea with its immense light. More…

Mill Houses
Fira, P.O.Box 119, Santorini Greece
Mill Houses is a traditional hotel, located at Fira town by Firostefani, Santorini. Every room is a restored and converted wind mill, facing the Caldera and the volcano. More…

Smaragdi Hotel
Perivolos, Perissa, Santorini Greece (Cyclades)
The A class complex "Hotel Smaragdi" built according to the unique, traditional Cycladic architecture, combines the island beauty with the charm of small hotels offering all modern facilities. More…

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