Megalochori, Santorini
It’s rare to hear ‘quiet’ and ‘Santorini’ in the same sentence, but if you’re a fan of a quieter, more laid-back holiday then Megalochori may have just what you’re looking for. This is the destination to forget about crowds and simply enjoy. Let’s take a closer look.
Santorini’s Quietest Village
Perched on the hilltop over Santorini’s bustling ‘Old Port’, you might be surprised at how quiet Megalochori can seem. While the Old Port remains active, much of its regular traffic has gone to the newer port at Thera, where the funicular cable car is a massive draw, too. This means far fewer crowds, and plenty of room to stroll and enjoy the peaceful nature of this wine-focused village for yourself.
Santorini’s Best Vineyards
Tucked inland from the shore, Megalochori offers a different take on the Santorini lifestyle from the beach-focused crowd-pulling villages on the shoreline. If you’re looking for a quiet and peaceful village to relax in, this is the one for you. The heart of the village is the sleep town square, framed with bougainvillea-covered patios and beckoning tavernas. At night, the live Greek music will bring a spark of life. By day, it’s a cool and calm oasis.
Don’t forget to stop for a shot at the exquisite bell-tower archway that frames the entrance to town. Spend some time exploring the maze of narrow, cobblestone streets with the classic sugar-cube houses and blue-domed churches. There’s no more charming place in the world to get lost.
Megalochori is also the heart of Santorini’s wine industry, so set aside some time to explore the many fabulous wineries crisscrossing the hills- and, of course, leave plenty of space to enjoy their goods! The region is famed for the dark Vinsanto wines, now protected by exacting standards to keep this proud history pure. Known for its citrusy, mineral flavors thanks to its 51% minimum composition with the Assyrtiko grape varietal, it’s then made warmer and fuller-bodied through Athiri and Aidani grapes. Delicious!
From historic Gavalas Winery to ultra-modern Venetsanos and Boutari Wineries, it’s worth taking a few afternoons to explore the rich history of winemaking in the area. Venetsanos, near the entrance to the village, has a spectacular sunset wine tasting experience everyone should try.
The Heart of Santorini
Megalochori is super-easy to get to from anywhere in Santorini. Simply grab a taxi or hire a car at the airport that lies just five miles (seven kilometers) away. If you’re light on luggage and like the idea, the route is even walkable, and will bring you spectacular views of the caldera to enjoy. Tucked into the caldera side of the island, rather than the sea side, there’s no better views of this savage testament to nature to be had anywhere else. There’s also buses and taxis to grab, with taxis being the most expensive route.
The volcanic beach at Thermi, sometimes called Tou Christou ta Thermi due to the tiny, exquisite church tucked up there, is a can’t-miss moment for all travelers. It’s a bit of a tough hike, with a winding and steep staircase one of the only ways to access the beach, but this means you will get to enjoy the pumice and black rock beach nearly to yourself, an unheard-of experience in bustling Santorini.
A Pirate Haven
The bustling Mediterranean has always been a drawcard for pirates. Rather than living in fear of them, Megalochori opened their gates to them. Even today, numerous hideouts dot the town, where the pirates would once tuck their illicit goods- and themselves- away from the prying eyes of the law.
The downfall of the original 17th Century village here, however, would not come at the hands of pirates, but rather a terrible 1959 earthquake. Rebuilding the town would only start in 1999. Today, however, its historic buildings have been meticulously restored to their original glory just for you to enjoy.
Don’t forget to head a little out-of-town to the Chapel of Agios Nikolaos. Built directly into the sea cliffs facing the Mediterranean, this spectacular chapel also boasts a triptych of bells. There’s also the ruins of once-bustling Ancient Akrotiri to explore. This spectacular Minoan archeological site was destroyed by an earthquake in 1600 BC, sinking deep into the newly-formed caldera.
Experience History for Yourself
As with many Santorini villages, you can choose from a range of true luxury accommodations, many of them built in the traditional ‘cave home style unique to the area. Or opt for a classic Greek villa with arresting views and picturesque charm. Many local spas allow you the perfect chance to unwind and rejuvenate your soul in tranquil surroundings.
Because it’s a little slower-paced than other Santorini villages, you won’t hit the summer overcrowding. The summer high season runs from June to September. We still do advise a May or October visit, where things are still open but the supreme summer heat is dying down. However, there’s no bad time to tick this beautiful haven of peace and tranquility off of your bucket list.
Megalochori offers you something truly different in the heart of Santorini, and every visitor to this unique and spectacularly photogenic Greek island should be sure to add it to the itinerary. Remember, come ready to sample delectable wines and food fresh from the farm. Let your heart, soul, and stomach all fall in love. Come to Megalochori today.
