Location: Ammoudi Bay, Santorini
Swimming costume from ASOS by Missguided, here. (Perfect for tucking your tummy into if you’ve eaten too much)
Did I mention that Ammoudi Bay was my favourite place on the island? This was our ‘spot’, the place we loved and returned to even if it was a long ride away from our base in Kamari. On our first trip we ventured down from Oia, walking very steadily down some very steep steps, avoiding donkey poo but coming across some of the most stunning views and cafe’s. After spending the entire afternoon at Ammoudi Bay, the climb back up outfaced us and a Canadian couple convinced us to take a donkey each to the top with them – so we did. It was €6 each and although a little scary I loved it. The day after, we found there was parking closer by which we took full advantage of because it would mean no leg burn on the way down and no donkey ride back up to the top. However, I fully recommend the walk and the donkey ride just once for the experience!
Location: Unknown but it was along the North East coast on route to Oia.
Renting a quad bike for three days during our time in Santorini was the best thing we did, even if it was a little pricey. We paid €90 for the three days and filled the tank up with petrol for €25, which we thought was rather steep. We explored the whole island, visiting Red Beach on the first day, Thira for lunch and then Ammoudi and Oia on the second and third day. Just remember to stay topped up with sun cream as you don’t feel the heat so much driving around on them!
Location: Oia, Santorini (Pronounced ee-ya not oi-ya)
I heard SO many people pronouncing Oia as oi-ya and I’m not going to lie, it really annoyed me haha! Anyway, besides from the pronunciation, Oia was beautiful. It was more than I imagined it would be, the white washed buildings, the marble floors and THAT view. It was breathtaking but far too many people for my liking, it was merely impossible to enjoy it as there were photoshoots going on everywhere.
Location: Santos Winery, Santorini
We had two recommendations on where to watch the sunset. One being Oia and the other Santos Wines. As we had visited Oia earlier in the week, we only imagined how busy and crazy it was going to get for sunset so we booked a table for 7:30 at the winery. The menu is a little weird so if you don’t like wine then I don’t recommend this place for you. We opted for the set menu for two which included 5 wines to compliment each dish, starting with salad, then some kind of octopus mousse dish, pork and then dessert. It was pricey but SO worth it for that sunset. Honestly, I’ve never seen a sunset so beautiful before.
Location: Kamari beach, Santorini
We spent our last day chilling on Kamari beach, a short 5 minute walk from our hotel. I much prefer the sea to a swimming pool and found the sea to be warmer! However, you will need some sort of footwear as it’s very stoney and the sea bed is rugged which makes it difficult to get in and out with the waves hitting you. Most shops sell them there for around €9-€12 but you might find it cheaper buying them at home before you go.
Location: Somewhere in Oia on the way down to Ammoudi Bay.
The main thing about Santorini was that there was a bloody fantastic view around every corner. You really don’t need to go and spend a lot of money at Santos Wines or an expensive cafe in Oia. You can drive and park up somewhere, take some water and something to nibble on and just take it all in. I can never sit still when I’m on holiday as I always like to be doing or seeing something, otherwise I feel like I haven’t made the most of my time there but it’s so important just to take it all in, relax and just enjoy where you are with who you’re with. I can’t wait for the next destination!