The hike from Fira to Oia in Santorini is my favorite memory from the visit to the island. What could possibly be a better way to see the island on the first day than walk the length (part actually) of it? That the reward of the four hour or so hike was a gorgeous sunset against a clear, wide horizon made the whole experience sweeter.
As we were staying in Imerovigli, our hike started technically from there and not Fira. That knocked off about half hour from the hike. We set off in late afternoon with the aim of reaching Oia by sunset and hopefully view the famous Santorini sunset. But then plans change.
That I was walking along the rim of the island’s volcanic cliffs was exciting enough. Add to that views of an azure Aegean sea stretching out for miles, shining in the late afternoon sun – views that stay with you throughout the hike. If this isn’t enough, the other side of the cliff has its own beauty what with rows upon rows of whitewashed villas, some with blue domes and others with blue umbrellas.
So as I said, plans can change. We ended up running a little late to be able to reach Oia in time for the sunset. But then can you blame us for frequently stopping to admire the tons of beauty around? About half an hour from Oia, we came across Church of Panagia which looked so peaceful and inviting that we just stopped here instead.
Also read: Maximize your Santorini experience
So glad we did. With a clear horizon for miles and just two more people for company, the first evening ended in a spectacular sunset. Not surprising then why the Santorini sunset is famous and away from the crowds, it’s just so much better.
About the hike
Start point: Old town of Fira
End point: Oia
Distance: 10 km
Time: Approx 4 hours (add extra as there is no way you can escape frequent stopping for views)
Tips for the hike
1) There will be a certain section which merges with the main road but that is only for a little while. Make sure to find the way back on to the dirt track; the penalty otherwise is missing all the good views
2) The path is a mix of paved and dirt, and gets steep in places, so unless you want to end up in that inviting sea, wear good shoes
3) You may want to plan your hike to end up in a sunset like we did. If you, like me, prefer a bit of solitude, then skip the sunset point in Oia, and instead stop over a little earlier at Church of Panagia (about half hour before the hike ends in Oia). I, and the pictures above, can vouch for the incredible views even from here. Also, you will not have to jostle for space
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I love Santorini. I feel it has that Italian carefree spirit that is hard to find in any other part of Italy. Stunning images
what an amazing set of pictures! I did the same hike couple of years back and It was just amazing experience. I got a lot of tanning though which was okay.lol..The yummy fresh fruit juices on the way were super refreshing! I would love to go there again! Did you also visited other places on the island?
(My post on it – http://wp.me/p7DbvM-6m)
The hike is just amazing, isn’t it. Well yes, I did visit the usual Santorini haunts – beaches, taverns, Akrotiri etc. I have been too lazy to write, but I should Lol. Will check out your post.
Nice! I didn’t had much time to visit everything, but whatever I could touch, I was just mesmerized by it then! Though I would love to read more about your adventures! keep up! 🙂
This place is so magical Anu! Love how the photographs were taken at different times of the day. Absolutely beautiful!
Thanks Shilpi 🙂 I loved this day. Gorgeous views all around. My first and definitely not last tryst with the Mediterranean sea
What a fabulous hike, Anushree. I can quite imagine it turning out to be the highlight of your stay in Santorini. It is the best way of seeing any place, and such views, gosh. I am taking notes in my little brown diary for the future, so thank you. xx
Thanks for reading Dippy Dotty girl 🙂 I so agree with you – a hike or a walk with those two feet is the best way to experience any place, and this hike was indeed brilliant !
My pleasure love xx
Beautiful pictures!!!
Thanks for reading 🙂