Santorini Cactus is a spacious villa set within private grounds on an exclusive estate in the hilltop village of Pyrgos Kallistis, nestled in the foothills of Mount Profitis Ilias. Surrounded by vineyards producing the renowned Assyrtiko white wines, Pyrgos is a captivating village of winding medieval alleys, atmospheric wine bars, traditional tavernas, galleries and boutique shops. From the remains of its Venetian castle, narrow lanes lead through whitewashed houses and charming churches. The Santorini of the Past Museum offers insight into traditional island life, and the sunsets here are among the finest on the island. Although inland, Pyrgos is just a short drive from the volcanic beaches, Kamari and Perissa, both Blue Flag, are fifteen minutes away, while the striking Red Beach at Akrotiri can be reached in twenty minutes.
Santorini, the southernmost of the Cyclades, is famed for its dramatic caldera, created by a volcanic eruption over three thousand six hundred years ago. The cliffs rise up to three hundred metres and overlook a lagoon of breathtaking depth. At its centre sits Nea Kameni, the island’s iconic volcano.
Nearby, the villages of Vothonas and Messaria are rich in charm and history. Vothonas, set in a steep gorge, is home to cave dwellings and notable churches, including Agios Roussos and Agia Anna. The underground Wine Museum offers a fascinating look at the island’s viticultural heritage. Messaria, partly built on the caldera, blends historic architecture with lively cafés, shops, and manor houses, some restored as museums. Surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, it offers a peaceful yet vibrant atmosphere.
The larger towns of Fira, Oia, Imerovigli and Firostefani feature a wide selection of restaurants and shops. Fira, the island’s capital, boasts a lively nightlife, cultural centres, museums, and both Orthodox and Catholic cathedrals. The Megaro Gyzi Cultural Center hosts regular exhibitions and events.
Santorini’s beaches, shaped by volcanic activity, offer unique landscapes, watersports, and excellent beachside dining. From the dark sands of Perissa to the red cliffs of Akrotiri and the family-friendly stretch at Monolithos, each beach has its own character. Hikers can enjoy panoramic views from Mount Profitis Ilias or trek to Ancient Thera from Perissa.
The Region
Considered to be one of the most beautiful villages on the island, Megalochori is a hidden gem with white-washed houses, blue-domed churches, bougainvillea-clad terraces and a fine reputation for its Vinsanto wine production which brought great prosperity to this part of Santorini.
On Santorini’s western coast and surrounded by vineyards, this traditional Cycladic village attracts day trippers keen to tour family-run wineries such as Gavalas and Boutari – the naturally sweet wine is made from grapes grown in volcanic soil left to dry naturally in the sun, then aged in oak barrels. You can also visit the village caves carved out from volcanic rock where wine and olive oil was once stored centuries ago.
Meanwhile, be enchanted as you wander around the warren of old lanes, admire the delightful belltower on the main square and stop off in an inviting taverna serving delicious local fare. Much of the 17th century village was damaged in an earthquake many years ago but it has been lovingly restored and still retains its historic charm.
For day trips away from the village, drive up to hilltop Pyrgos for yet more gorgeous architecture, castle ruins and stunning views of the island. Further north, Fira is of course the island’s popular capital, and captivating Oia is loved for its photogenic scenery and sunsets.
Alternatively, head south to the ancient site of Akrotiri and Santorini’s iconic red beach with red-hued pebbles and volcanic rocks – boat trips also allow you to admire this stunning spectacle from the sea, sometimes as part of an island volcano or sunset tour.
