Oia, Greece ~ Where the Town IS the Attraction

I'd be lying if I didn't say that I wanted to go to Greece for the sole reason of getting the above picture.

That is to say, I did have other reasons, too, but I would've chalked the trip up to a win if we'd only gotten this picture and nothing else. But thankfully we stayed for several nights and drank our fill of the twisting lanes, traditional cave housing, and sunsets of Santorini.

The town of Oia (pronounced "Ee-ah") is perched on the northern end of the caldera that forms the island of Thira (or Santorini as it's popularly known). If you guessed that the island rock is volcanic, you'd be correct. Santorini is an active volcano that last erupted in 1956, destroying many buildings on the island. When those who remained on the island began to rebuild, they did so with an eye for aesthetics and with the keen business sense to appeal to tourism. As such, the white-washed houses and blue-domed churches of Oia and the rest of the island have become an iconic vision of the Greek islands and are responsible for luring thousands of tourists to come spend their money wandering the beautiful streets.

There is nothing historic in Oia. Most of the buildings are no more than 60 years old due to the volcanic eruption in 1956, but here the main attraction is simply the town and island itself. The raw beauty of Oia is stunning; where else in the world do you find crowds that applaud simply in response to a sunset? This place was made for romantics. But judge for yourself.

View of Oia from the northern tip of the island

Greek enchantment

A couple's paradise

Let the wedding bells ring!

Ah, yes, the money shot!

Requiem to a sunset

Where else in the world does one applaud after a sunset?

If you find yourself planning a trip to Santorini, do yourself a favor and stay in Oia, even if you can't afford a caldera-view hotel. Just being in the town itself will be worth your while.

Have you visited Oia?

* We recommend staying at the Oia's Sunset located near the town square. It is not caldera view, but the rooms are spacious, have a traditional feel, and Panos will make you feel more like an old family friend than a stranger. A review of our stay will be forthcoming!

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