Santorini, Greece

Sep 22

After an exhilarating wedding weekend, we embarked on our honeymoon adventure with an early morning wake-up call at 3:00 AM. The alarm was a harsh reminder, pulling us from the blissful afterglow of our wedding night. Our journey began in Scotland, where we hurriedly gathered our essentials, bracing ourselves against the crisp pre-dawn air filled with the excitement of a long travel day ahead. By 6:00 AM, we were en route to London, watching the hazy silhouette of the morning world fade into a blanket of grey as our plane ascended. The initial leg of our journey was a turbulent flight to London, fueled by lukewarm coffee and the promise of sun-soaked escapades. Heathrow Airport greeted us with its chaotic ballet of rushing travelers and rattling suitcases, serving as a temporary pause before our next ascent. Before long, we were airborne again, this time with our sights set on the sparkling gem of the Aegean: Santorini.

As the plane descended, the landscape transformed dramatically. The deep blue waters and the volcanic contours of Santorini emerged like a beautiful painting, dominated by whitewashed villages clinging to the cliffs. Upon landing at the island’s quaint airport, buzzing with eager tourists ready for their Greek adventure, we disembarked and met our pre-arranged transfer from the hotel, setting off for our week-long sanctuary.

Lilium Hotel Santorini

The taxi weaved through narrow roads, each twist revealing breathtaking panoramas of sun-drenched hillsides and striking views of the azure sea. Upon arriving at Lilium Hotel Santorini, it was immediately evident that this was no ordinary accommodation. It felt like a private sanctuary, seamlessly integrated into the volcanic landscape, exuding a sense of understated elegance and tranquil serenity. The check-in process was a breeze, and soon we were escorted to our own private villa. From our terrace, we were greeted by a sweeping view of the caldera, where the glimmering turquoise waters stretched endlessly towards the horizon. The highlight, however, was our private plunge pool—an inviting oasis of cool water that promised relaxation.

The Lilium Hotel offered a level of service that transcended the ordinary. From the moment of our arrival, we were enveloped in an atmosphere of meticulous attention to detail. The staff were remarkably attentive, anticipating needs before they were voiced. Every request, whether seeking recommendations for authentic local tavernas or arranging seamless private transportation, was met with genuine warmth and swift execution. Lilium was more than just a place to stay; it was a curated experience, a sanctuary of refined luxury.

The initial hunger from our travels led us to the hotel restaurant, where we indulged in a simple yet exquisite meal: a cheeseburger and a club sandwich with fries. The flavors were surprisingly elevated, solidifying our initial impressions of the hotel's commitment to excellence.

Once our bellies were full, we boarded the hotel’s private shuttle to Fira, the vibrant capital of the island, which departed every hour. Fira is famed for its iconic labyrinthine streets and breathtaking panoramic views, providing a scene straight out of a postcard. The bustling streets thrummed with energy: tourists captivated by the sights, shopkeepers displaying their goods, and the delightful aromas of traditional Greek cuisine wafting from the tavernas. Fira buzzed with life, blending ancient history and modern tourism in a captivating way. Our inaugural experience in Fira was a visit to "The Greek Wedding Show" at 9:00 PM, setting the tone for what promised to be an unforgettable stay on this enchanting island.

The Greek Wedding Show

We made our way to the Greek Wedding Show at the White Door Theatro, a lively and celebratory event that immerses the audience in the rich cultural traditions of a Greek wedding. This entertaining performance features a blend of music, dance, and comedic skits, showcasing the customs and humor associated with Greek nuptials.

As we strolled through Fira, I felt a bit uncomfortable and uneasy, but we eventually arrived and checked in at the White Door Theatro. After a brief wait, the show began. The cast entered the venue, walking down the hall to greet the audience, which set a jovial tone for the evening. We were then ushered into a room where the first skit unfolded; we stood for about the first 30 minutes, captivated by the engaging performances.

Afterward, we were taken to the outdoor area, where we finally settled down with some bread, snacks, and, of course, wine. The show picked up steam, featuring musical numbers and playful scenes that kept us entertained. The entire cast was exceptional, displaying their talent and enthusiasm. On several occasions, they invited audience members to dance or sing along. While many in the crowd enthusiastically participated, we decided to sit it out; it simply wasn’t our style. Despite our polite refusals, the cast continued to encourage us, and we soon realized just how immersive this experience was designed to be. The one interactive moment we did embrace was the tradition of plate smashing, which added to the festive atmosphere.

What We Liked About The Show:

Cultural immersion: The show beautifully showcased the rich traditions of a Greek wedding, including music, dance, and humor. It felt authentic and celebratory.

Talented cast: The performers were exceptional, bringing energy and enthusiasm to their roles. Their passion was evident throughout the evening.
Plate smashing: This traditional Greek activity was an unforgettable highlight and added a unique and festive element to the night.

What We Didn’t Like:

Overly interactive: While the immersive nature of the show was impressive, the persistent encouragement to participate felt a bit overwhelming since we’re not fans of audience involvement.

Standing at the beginning: The first 30 minutes of standing during the initial skit was slightly uncomfortable, especially after a day of exploring Fira.
Pushy participation: Even after politely declining to dance or sing along, the continued encouragement made us feel a bit out of our comfort zone.

In summary, the Greek Wedding Show is a highly entertaining and fun event, though it proved to be a bit too interactive for our liking. If you enjoy being part of the action, this show is undoubtedly perfect for you.

After our long day of travel, we were exhausted and eager to return to the hotel. It appeared that the hotel was quite a distance away, so I decided to order an Uber, even though I had read that the fares could be quite high. However, we were desperate for a ride. After a brief wait, an Uber driver accepted the request. He messaged me to confirm our destination, even though it was already provided in the app, and he asked where to pick us up, which struck me as a bit unusual. Nevertheless, he managed to find us and drove us to the hotel, which was just a five-minute ride. The fare ended up being $40. Once we arrived, we quickly settled in and went to sleep, ready for another exciting day in Santorini tomorrow.

Santorini Wine Tour

The morning dawned in a realm of pampered serenity. Our room, a haven of soft light and quiet comfort, cradled us into consciousness. While I lingered in its embrace, William ventured out to the hotel restaurant, returning with a breakfast that, though modest, proved to be a delightful surprise.

We savored each bite in the privacy of our villa, a blissful prelude to a refreshing plunge in our personal pool. The cool water invigorated us, washing away any lingering sleepiness and fueling the anticipation that crackled in the air. Our first adventure, a Santorini Wine Tour, beckoned.

Winery Hatzidakis

A comfortable tour van arrived punctually, whisking us away to our initial vineyard destination, Winery Hatzidakis. From the moment we stepped onto the grounds, we were spellbound by the palpable passion and dedication that radiated from the winemakers. We gained a profound understanding of the challenges of cultivating grapes in Santorini's unique volcanic soil. The ingenuity of their cultivation, particularly the traditional "kouloura" method, where vines are trained into low-lying basket shapes to weather the fierce winds, was truly captivating.

The heart of the experience unfolded with the wine tasting, a journey that went far beyond a simple sampling. Each pour was a narrative, accompanied by detailed explanations of the grape varietals, the intricate winemaking process, and the individual characteristics of each wine. The experience was further elevated by the pairing of these wines with local delicacies.

We savored a diverse tapestry of flavors, from the crisp, mineral-driven whites to the complex, age-worthy reds. We were particularly enchanted by the discovery of assyrtiko, the island’s signature white grape, with its distinct high acidity and bright citrus notes. The wines all impressed, and we then enjoyed a tour of the winery itself, learning about the significance of the wine barrels from our knowledgeable guide.

Santo Wines

As the sun began its graceful descent, the sky transformed into a masterpiece of fiery oranges and soft amethysts. We arrived at Santo Wines, where the strong winds whipped through the terrace, but they couldn’t dampen our spirits. The guide thoughtfully offered jackets to those feeling the chill, a small gesture that added to the comfort of the experience. Perched dramatically on the caldera's edge, the winery presented a breathtaking panorama.

From our vantage point, we had a front-row seat to Santorini's iconic sunset—a stunning tapestry of oranges, pinks, and purples blending seamlessly as the sun dipped below the horizon. With this enchanting backdrop, we savored our wine tasting, paired with an elegant selection of tapas—fresh fruits, creamy cheeses, and flavorful meats. It was the perfect, almost magical view.

Anhydrous Winery

Next, we made our way to our final stop, Anhydrous Winery, eager to return to our hotel in time for the Volcanic Firework Festival—a lively event we had only just learned about that morning. The Volcanic Firework Festival is an annual celebration that reimagines the eruption of Santorini's volcano with an awe-inspiring display of fireworks over the caldera, drawing both locals and travelers to witness the spectacle that is usually held in September.

At Anhydrous, we sampled a selection of wines, though none quite compared to the remarkable offerings we’d enjoyed at Santo Wines. Alongside the wine, we were served a pair of small tapas—one vegetarian and one with meat. While we couldn’t recall their names, we both agreed they were delicious and made for a satisfying end to our wine tour. It was a pleasant final stop before the excitement of the evening’s festivities awaited us.

What We Liked About The Tour:

Insightful Experiences at Winery Hatzidakis: The passion of the winemakers was palpable, and we were captivated by their storytelling and dedication to cultivating grapes in Santorini’s unique volcanic soil. Learning about the “kouloura” method of growing vines in basket shapes was fascinating and gave us a deeper appreciation for the effort behind each bottle.
The Stunning Views at Santo Wines: The panoramic view of the caldera and Santorini’s sunset was unparalleled—an unforgettable experience.
Convenient and Comfortable Tour: The punctual and comfortable transportation made the tour stress-free.
Variety in Wines and Settings: Each winery provided a unique atmosphere and style, allowing us to experience a range of Santorini’s wine culture.

What We Didn’t Like:

Nothing

This tour transcended a mere tasting; it was an immersive journey into the very soul of Santorini's winemaking legacy. The blend of expert insights, the nuanced flavors of the wines, thoughtfully paired delicacies, and the unforgettable panoramic vistas created an experience that resonated deeply. For anyone eager to unravel the unique character of Santorini and its wines, a tour of this caliber is indispensable. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or simply captivated by the island's charm, indulging in a wine tasting with local delicacies—especially in a small group setting—is a truly exceptional way to capture the essence of this enchanting place. Without reservation, we wholeheartedly recommend adding this to your next Santorini itinerary.

Volcano Festival

On our return, we were met with a crowd eager for the Volcano Festival. People lined across the edge, since the The caldera villages like Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli, and Oia offer the best vantage points. We made it back to the hotel with time to spare, and the cool shock of the pool was exactly what we needed after a long day. Once the show began, however, our poolside seats felt a bit lackluster. Knowing our clifftop hotel had the potential for a far better view, we couldn't resist a little adventure. Ignoring a simple chain barrier, we cautiously scrambled to a more promising spot. William was a bit apprehensive about the dark and the uneven ground, but we persevered. The payoff was incredible: fireworks bursting over the dark, shimmering ocean. It was an exhilarating experience, and the extra effort made it that much more special.

We called it an early night to rest up for a full day of adventuring around Santorini. With so much of the island to explore—from the iconic whitewashed streets of Oia to the unique black sand beaches of Kamari and Perissa—we wanted to be ready to take it all in.

Santorini Highlights and Venetian Castles Tour

The next morning, we woke up excited and ready for our Santorini Highlights and Venetian Castles Tour. We couldn’t wait to dive into the island’s rich history, explore charming villages, and, of course, see those iconic blue-domed buildings that Santorini is famous for. Right on schedule, our tour bus arrived to pick us up directly from Lilium Hotel, and just like that, we were off to discover the magic of the island!

Pyrgos

Our journey began in Pyrgos, a captivating village crowned by the Castelli of Pyrgos, a Venetian castle dramatically situated on a hilltop. We ascended through the village's labyrinthine, rocky alleys, flanked by the iconic whitewashed buildings and bursts of vibrant bougainvillea.

As we climbed, our guide unveiled the rich history of the Church of Agios Nikolaos. This church, dedicated to Saint Nicholas, the protector of sailors, speaks volumes about Santorini's maritime heritage. Its Byzantine architecture, characterized by its classic whitewashed walls, creates a tranquil haven. We also learned about the Church of Saint George, a prime example of traditional Cycladic architecture, adorned with colorful frescoes. The legend of Saint George's battle with the dragon resonates deeply with the Greek Orthodox faith, symbolizing protection and fortitude. Further adding to the village's spiritual tapestry was the Church of Saint Mary (Panagia). This iconic landmark, with its signature blue domes and exquisite iconography, is a cherished place for locals, particularly during religious celebrations like the Feast of the Assumption on August 15th, underscoring the island's profound spiritual roots.

Upon reaching the summit, a stunning panorama of Santorini unfolded before us. The island sprawled below, punctuated by the iconic blue-domed structures that beckoned our cameras. After absorbing this breathtaking vista, we descended the winding paths, eager for the next chapter of our exploration. We boarded our bus, our minds already buzzing with anticipation for the adventures that lay ahead.

Symposion Cultural Center

Our journey continued to the Symposion Cultural Center in Megalohori, and stepping inside felt like stepping back in time. This wasn't merely a venue; it was a meticulously curated cultural experience, nestled within the ancient, sun-kissed stone of a lovingly restored medieval structure. The very air seemed to vibrate with history, a palpable prelude to delving into the island's deep-rooted traditions and vibrant musical soul.

Symposion was a feast for the senses. The space resonated with melodies spun from instruments as old as Santorini itself. The lyra, its haunting and ethereal notes weaving a tapestry of ancient stories, and the tsabouna, with its earthy, resonant voice crafted from goatskin, imbued the experience with profound authenticity. Beyond simply listening, we were invited to become part of the musical conversation. Under the gentle tutelage of a passionate musician, we discovered the nuanced character of each instrument - the lyra's delicate pluck and the tsabouna's powerful breath.

The experience transcended music; Symposion was a celebration of Greek mythology and storytelling. Through captivating performances, we were swept into the heart of the legends that have shaped Greek identity. Symposion was the perfect union of history, culture, and natural beauty – not just an educational experience, but an immersive, unforgettable spectacle.

Akrotiri

Our exploration of Santorini culminated in a visit to Akrotiri, a truly remarkable archaeological site and one of Greece's most important. This ancient Minoan city, famously dubbed the "Pompeii of the Aegean," was entombed by volcanic ash around 1600 BC, a fortunate catastrophe that has preserved an unparalleled window into Minoan life. The site reveals a sophisticated society: vibrant frescoes, complex multi-story structures, and, crucially, advanced drainage systems designed for efficient water and waste management.

Our guide vividly illustrated how these systems demonstrated the Minoans' impressive technological prowess. Even a brief drive around the perimeter, despite the strong winds, provided a powerful glimpse into the daily lives and engineering achievements of this ancient Aegean civilization. The surrounding landscape, including the castle and the dramatic caldera views from the south of the island, further enriched the experience.

Perissa Black Sand Beach

Our next stop took us to Perissa Black Sand Beach, where we were given time to grab some lunch and explore the area. We wished it was warmer to take a dip in the water or relax on one of the loungers, but the cold, windy weather had other plans. Still, it was clear that this was a beautiful spot to unwind on a sunnier day.

We strolled along the beach and eventually found ourselves at Chilli Beach Bar Restaurant. The service was prompt and welcoming, and we quickly settled in with a few fruity drinks. I ordered a chicken gyro, while William opted for a lamb gyro with a side of cheese sticks. Despite the chilly weather, the view of the Aegean Sea was fantastic, adding a scenic touch to our meal.

Our food arrived quickly and did not disappoint—everything was fresh and warm, and the tzatziki sauce was perfectly tangy and creamy. To top off the meal, they even brought us a small plate of fresh fruit as a thank you. Overall, we would rate our experience at Chilli Beach Bar Restaurant a 9/10. It's a great place to have a quick bite with friendly service and delicious food.

After lunch, we wandered around the beach area a little more, soaking in the unique beauty of the black sand, before heading back to the van for the next leg of our adventure.

Emporio Village

Our next stop was Emporio Village, one of the oldest and most picturesque villages in Santorini. The town was incredibly charming and quaint, with whitewashed walls and vibrant blue doors that perfectly captured the island's iconic aesthetic. The narrow pathways felt like a labyrinth, a design that dates back to the village's history of protecting itself from pirate attacks in the past.

We continued our walk to the Castelli of Emporio, a Venetian fortress that once served as a defensive stronghold. Though we couldn't go inside, exploring around the castle was just as fascinating. The exterior was adorned with intricate tile details and showcased the architectural brilliance of the era. The combination of the maze-like streets and the historical ambiance made Emporio a captivating stop on our journey.

Wine Museum Koutsogiannopoulos

Our nextl stop for the day was the Wine Museum Koutsogiannopoulos, a must-visit for anyone interested in Santorini's rich winemaking heritage. Nestled in a unique subterranean cave stretching over 300 meters, this museum offers an immersive journey through the island's winemaking history. As we stepped inside, the cool, dimly lit tunnels transported us back in time, setting the perfect atmosphere to explore centuries of tradition.

The exhibits were thoughtfully curated, featuring authentic artifacts, tools, and multimedia presentations that highlighted the evolution of winemaking on the island. We were fascinated by the ingenuity and dedication of Santorini's winemakers, whose techniques have been shaped by the island's volcanic soil and unique climate.

The highlight of our visit was the wine-tasting session. Guided by knowledgeable experts, we sampled some of Santorini's most iconic wines. The Assyrtiko, with its crisp acidity and mineral notes, perfectly reflected the island's terroir, while the sweet, rich Vinsanto told a story of meticulous craftsmanship and tradition. Each sip deepened our appreciation for the island's winemaking legacy.

Firostefani & Oia

Our exploration of Santorini continued with a brief, yet memorable stop in Firostefani. The iconic blue dome and the historic Rock of Skaros, remnants of the island’s Venetian past, seemed to demand a photo at every turn. Each snapshot felt like capturing the very essence of Santorini—a harmonious blend of rich history and stunning visual beauty.

As we made our way toward Oia, our excitement grew. Famous for its legendary sunsets, the village buzzed with tourists eager to witness the evening’s spectacle. Navigating Oia’s narrow, lively streets—lined with charming shops and bustling with energy—was an adventure in itself. But we were on a mission: to find the perfect spot for the iconic Greek sunset.

Sunset Bar

Our guide initially directed us to a popular, but overly crowded, viewpoint. Undeterred, we ventured further, eventually stumbling upon a hidden gem—Sunset Bar, located near the main sunset viewing area. Luck was on our side as we managed to snag a table.

From the moment we sat down, Sunset Bar cast its spell. The inviting ambiance, delicious tapas, and local wine created the perfect backdrop for the evening. The service was warm and attentive, making us feel instantly at home. Each sip of our sparkling rosé added another layer of magic to the unfolding sunset.

Watching the sun dip below the horizon, wine in hand, with my favorite person by my side, was nothing short of magical. The sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors, casting a golden glow over the caldera. It was a surreal, dreamlike moment—one we’ll cherish forever.

Once we were dropped off, it was already pretty late. We took a quick dip in the pool, ordered dinner from the restaurant, and arranged for a scooter to be delivered to the hotel. It was the perfect way to get around—while a car felt unnecessary on the island, we still needed something for activities that didn’t offer pick-up. We then called it a night, ready for another long but exciting day ahead.

Corner Restaurant

The next morning, our scooter arrived, and we decided to test it out with a breakfast trip to Thira. I found a spot called Corner, which had a 4.7 rating, so we figured it was worth a try. The scooter was perfect for this little adventure, making it easy to zip around and park.

We grabbed a window seat when we arrived, but the service left a lot to be desired—we were ignored for quite a while before anyone took our order. I went with avocado toast and an omelet, while William opted for a traditional breakfast with eggs, meats, and bread. The food took its time coming out, and when it finally did, it was… interesting. Everything was served on plain, untoasted white bread, the eggs were cold, and my “avocado toast” was just bread slathered with mayo. For the price, it was a letdown. We’d give it a 2/10.

Greek Cuisine Cooking Class

After our disappointing breakfast, we hopped on the scooter, eager to reach our first activity: a cooking class in Megalochori Village, just a short ride away. The scenic journey along the Aegean coast was a highlight in itself, with the sparkling blue waters offering the perfect backdrop. Once we arrived, we parked and made our way to Raki Restaurant, where we checked in and waited. Soon enough, Chef Christos appeared and personally escorted us to the kitchen entrance, setting the tone for an intimate, hands-on experience.

Inside, Chef Christos directed the eight of us—eager students—to our assigned square tables. The first recipe on the agenda: Tzatziki, a dish that immediately conjured images of sun-drenched Greek islands. Traditionally, it's a simple yet perfect combination of thick Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, a hint of garlic, rich olive oil, a squeeze of lemon, and fresh dill or mint. But Chef Christos had his own secret twist, a guarded recipe he wasn’t about to share. While we chopped our pile of tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers, he worked his magic behind the scenes. His assistant then whisked away his creation along with our chopped vegetables to the fridge, promising a surprise later. With our appetites whetted, we moved on to our next culinary adventure.

Next up: our main dish—Pastitsio (sometimes spelled pasticcio), a beloved Greek comfort food that layers baked pasta, a hearty meat sauce, and creamy béchamel. It’s often compared to lasagna, but with a distinctly Greek flair.

The demonstration began with Chef Christos searing the meat, inviting volunteers to help with the stirring. William jumped at the chance and quickly proved himself a capable assistant. Once the meat was perfectly browned, we shifted focus to the béchamel sauce. Chef explained the basics of a roux—butter, flour, and milk—before adding a generous handful of cheese for that extra richness. While the sauce simmered to creamy perfection, ziti pasta bubbled away on another burner.

With all the components ready, it was time for the fun part: assembling the dish. Chef called for two volunteers, and I eagerly stepped forward alongside another participant. We layered the pasta, spooned the savory meat sauce over it, and smoothed a thick blanket of béchamel on top. We repeated the layers, finishing with one last coat of the creamy sauce. The assistant whisked our assembled bowls off to the oven, and we prepared for our final dish of the day: Tomatokeftedes, or tomato fritters.

Creating the Tomatokeftedes started with dicing fresh, juicy tomatoes and draining the excess moisture. We mixed in a vibrant medley of herbs, flour to bind everything together, and a few other key ingredients. Once the mixture was ready, Chef asked for volunteers to help with frying. Scooping the mixture into small portions, we gently dropped them into hot oil, frying them until they were perfectly golden brown and crisp on the outside.

With the cooking complete, we were led outside to a beautiful table set with wine and appetizers, a prelude to the feast we had just prepared. Soon, the assistant brought out the Tzatziki sauce, Greek salad, Pastitsio, and the much-anticipated Tomatokeftedes. It was finally time to enjoy the fruits of our labor!

The Greek salad was a vibrant celebration of fresh flavors. The tomatoes were juicy and sweet, the red onions added a sharp bite, and the creamy, salty feta melted slightly on the tongue, tying everything together beautifully. The Pastitsio arrived steaming hot, its golden béchamel topping giving way to a rich, velvety interior. The buttery smoothness of the sauce, delicately spiced with nutmeg, wrapped each bite in comforting warmth.

And then there were the Tomatokeftedes—an instant favorite for both William and me. Their crispy, golden crust hid a burst of juicy, sun-ripened tomatoes inside. The combination of savory-sweet tomatoes, the sharpness of finely chopped onions, and the aromatic freshness of mint and oregano created a flavor explosion that perfectly captured the essence of Santorini. Each bite felt like a little taste of the island, simple yet extraordinary.

The meal was perfectly complemented by the local wine, which fueled lively conversation and laughter among our group and with Chef Christos. It was more than just a cooking class; it was an evening of shared experiences, delicious food, and new connections—an unforgettable highlight of our trip.

What We Liked:

Personalized Experience: Having Chef Christos personally escort us to the kitchen and guide the class made the experience feel intimate and special. His passion for Greek cuisine really came through.
Hands-On Participation: We loved that the class wasn’t just a demonstration—we got to chop, mix, and even help cook. William had a blast assisting with the meat sauce, and I enjoyed layering the Pastitsio.
Learning Traditional Recipes with a Twist: It was fascinating to learn how to make classic Greek dishes like Tzatziki, Pastitsio, and Tomatokeftedes, especially with Chef Christos’ unique takes on traditional recipes.
Delicious Food & Wine: The final meal was incredible, especially the Tomatokeftedes—they were a standout for both of us! Pairing the food with local wine made it feel like a true Greek feast.
Great Atmosphere: The class had a relaxed, friendly vibe, and we enjoyed connecting with the other participants over food and wine. It felt like sharing a meal with new friends.
Take-Home Recipes: We were given the recipes at the end of the class, which was a huge plus! It made it easy to recreate the dishes at home and relive the experience.

What We Didn’t Like:

Nothing: Everything about this experience was fantastic—from the engaging class to the delicious meal. We genuinely couldn’t find anything to critique.

Overall This cooking class was one of the highlights of our trip! It was fun, hands-on, and gave us an authentic taste of Greek culture and cuisine. The combination of learning, cooking, and sharing a meal made it an unforgettable experience. We’d highly recommend this activity to anyone visiting Santorini—it’s perfect for food lovers, couples, or anyone looking to dive deeper into Greek traditions while having a great time.

Horseback Riding to Eros Beach

Right after our cooking class, we hopped back on the scooter and headed to our next adventure: horseback riding to the black sandy shores of Eros Beach. The meeting point was at a bakery/mini-mart called The Family Bakery. When we arrived, we spotted the guide we were supposed to meet, and after a quick check-in, we waited for the rest of the group. Once everyone had arrived, he led us down to the stables, which were a little further from the bakery.

At the stables, we were given helmets and a brief overview of the route. They asked about our riding experience and matched us with horses accordingly. I was placed right behind our lead guide—a super friendly girl in her 20s—while William rode behind me. The guide led us out towards Eros Beach, setting a steady pace for the group.

As we rode, the guide shared interesting facts about Santorini, especially about the island's unique volcanic layers that have shaped its landscape. The route itself was a mix of terrains—dirt paths, rocky trails, paved roads, and even shallow water crossings. It did get pretty dusty at times, but nothing too overwhelming. The closer we got to the beach, the more spectacular the views became.

After what felt like six hours in the saddle (but was probably closer to an hour), we finally arrived at Eros Beach just in time for the sunset. The view was absolutely breathtaking—one of those moments where you just have to pause and soak it all in. We managed to snap a few photos together with the sunset casting a golden glow over the black sand and waves.

One of our favorite parts of any horseback riding trip is how the horses always seem to have their own little personalities—and love lives! Every time William and I ride, our horses end up flirting with each other, and this time was no exception. It was adorable watching them nuzzle and interact along the way.

After a short time at the beach, we began the ride back. The return trip was a bit slow and less exciting, but the experience as a whole was definitely worth it. The guide was fantastic—she clearly cared deeply about the horses and made sure everyone was comfortable and having a good time. Her enthusiasm added to the fun

What We Liked:

Beautiful Scenery: The ride to Eros Beach offered stunning views, especially as we approached the coastline. Watching the sunset over the black sand beach was absolutely breathtaking and made for some amazing photo opportunities.
Friendly and Knowledgeable Guide: Our guide was fantastic—super friendly, engaging, and knowledgeable about the island. She shared interesting facts about Santorini’s volcanic history and made sure everyone felt comfortable during the ride. It was clear she genuinely cared about the horses, which we really appreciated.
Convenient Meeting Point: Starting at The Family Bakery was a nice touch. It was easy to find, and we could grab a quick snack if we needed to before heading to the stables.

What We Didn’t Like:

Dusty Trails: Some parts of the ride got pretty dusty, especially when riding over dry dirt paths. It wasn’t unbearable, but it did get a little uncomfortable at times.

This horseback riding experience to Eros Beach was a unique and memorable way to explore Santorini. The beautiful sunset views, combined with the fun, friendly guide and adorable horse interactions, made it a highlight of our trip. While the return ride was a bit slow, the overall adventure was well worth it. We’d definitely recommend this activity to anyone looking for a scenic and slightly off-the-beaten-path way to experience the island.

Mama's Santorini

After the horseback ride, we made our way back to the hotel to freshen up and, more importantly, get all the dust out of my hair. Once we were cleaned up and feeling refreshed, we hopped back on the scooter and headed to Thira in search of a good dinner spot.

We parked and stumbled upon a restaurant called Mama's Santorini. It had an upscale vibe with beautiful decor—chic yet cozy, with warm lighting and elegant touches that immediately caught our eye. Luckily, they were able to accommodate us without a reservation and led us upstairs to a cozy dining area with a great view of the town below. The service was excellent from the moment we sat down, attentive without being overbearing, and we quickly ordered some drinks and, of course, Tomatokeftedes—we couldn’t resist seeing how they compared to the ones we made earlier in the cooking class. For our mains, I ordered the traditional chicken souvlaki, and William went with a lamb dish.

The drinks were fantastic—perfectly mixed and refreshing after a long day of activities. However, the Tomatokeftedes didn’t quite measure up to the fresh ones we had made ourselves. While they were still tasty, they lacked the vibrant flavors and crispy texture of our homemade version, feeling a bit heavier and less fresh.

But the real highlight was the chicken souvlaki. The chicken was incredibly juicy and flavorful, marinated to perfection with hints of lemon, garlic, and oregano. Each bite was tender, with just the right amount of char from the grill, giving it that smoky, slightly crispy edge. It was served with fluffy, warm pita bread, a generous dollop of creamy tzatziki, and a side of perfectly roasted vegetables that added a sweet, caramelized touch to the dish.

William’s lamb dish was equally impressive. The lamb was fall-off-the-bone tender, cooked to perfection with a rich, savory flavor that was complemented by a subtle blend of Mediterranean spices. It was served with a side of herbed potatoes that soaked up the delicious juices from the lamb.

We would rate this restaurant a 9/10 and definitely recommend making a stop here for dinner if you're in Thira. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring, with delicious food, great drinks, and an atmosphere that ties it all together beautifully.

After our last dinner in Santorini, we headed back to the hotel, savoring the final moments of our time on the island. With an early transfer to the airport the next morning, we packed up and got some rest, excited for our next destination: Athens.

Closing Thoughts on Santorini

Santorini was the perfect start to our honeymoon—an unforgettable blend of adventure, relaxation, and stunning scenery. From the moment we arrived, we were captivated by the island’s iconic whitewashed villages, deep blue waters, and breathtaking caldera views. Staying at Lilium Hotel felt like pure luxury, offering impeccable service and our own private plunge pool to unwind after each day’s adventures.

We explored charming villages, rode horses to Eros Beach for a magical sunset, and learned to cook traditional Greek dishes in Megalochori. The Santorini Wine Tour introduced us to delicious local wines and unbeatable views, while meals like the juicy chicken souvlaki at Mama’s Santorini became instant favorites.

Even the quirky moments—like our disappointing breakfast at Corner or the overly interactive Greek Wedding Show—added charm to our journey. Santorini’s beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality made it a destination we’ll cherish forever. We highly recommend adding this island to your Greek itinerary—you won’t be disappointed!

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At The Tattooed Travelers, our travel diary offers a personal and immersive look into our adventures around the world. It’s a vibrant collection of stories, reflections, history, sights, and even the smells that make each journey unforgettable. From breathtaking destinations and mouthwatering meals to behind-the-scenes moments and valuable lessons learned, our travel diary captures the magic of exploring the world, one memory at a time. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, practical advice, or a spark of wanderlust, our diary invites you to wander with us and feel the thrill of discovery.

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