The magnificent island of Santorini, officially known as Thira, was shaped by a huge volcanic eruption around 3,600 years ago, which created the island’s iconic caldera. Whitewashed villages are clustered dramatically atop the cliffs, and dotted amongst the blue-domed churches and sugar cube houses are some of the most exclusive boutique hotels in the Mediterranean, their infinity pools oriented towards the spectacular sunsets that the island is so renowned for. 

Fira is the main settlement, which blends almost imperceptibly into neighbouring Firostefani to the north, and beyond it Imerovigli at the highest point of the caldera edge. The majority of Santorini’s high end hotels and restaurants are concentrated along this strip, or in the upmarket village of Oia at the northwestern tip of the island. Fira and Oia are also where the crowds gather at the end of each day to bathe in the golden glow as the sun dips below the horizon. 

The ancient eruption on Santorini played a part in the fall of the Minoan civilisation, and is said to have inspired the legend of Atlantis. Visit the well-preserved ruins at Akrotiri, which were buried under volcanic ash, and make up your own mind. Other activities to get you off your sun lounger include hiking, wine tasting and visiting the pretty little villages of Pyrgos and Megalochori. Santorini also has some striking beaches, their rocks and sands infused with vibrant colours thanks to the island’s unique geology, and there is no shortage of cosy tavernas where you can dine on fresh seafood and enjoy the views.