Greece (Santorini), Stay of Distinction: Canaves Oia Hotel

Inviting, inspiring and elegantly classic suites and contemporary facilities, entice guest to experience luxury accommodation beyond comparison in the best luxury hotel in Oia Santorini. All hotel suites are freshly renovated and elegantly decorated in a dazzling white, minimal manner, featuring private verandas, al fresco dining areas and breathtaking views to the Caldera and the Aegean Sea. Canaves Oia's Spa with a view offers its guests the opportunity to indulge in high-end wellness and beauty services in an environment of distinctive luxury.

Your day begins with a visit to the Archaeological site of Akrotori (entrance fee to be paid locally, at 12 Euro per person). The excavations at Akrotori have uncovered one of the most important prehistoric settlements of the Aegean. The first habitation at the site dates from the Late Neolithic times (at least the 4th millennium BC). The town's life came to an abrupt end in the last quarter of the 17th century BC when the inhabitants were obliged to abandon it as a result of severe earthquakes. The eruption followed. The volcanic materials covered the entire island and the town itself. These materials, however, have protected up to date the buildings and their contents, similar to Pompeii. The tour then continues on to the black sand beach of Perivolos. Here you will have free time for lunch (own account) or a swim. The beach distinguishes for its sparkling azure blue waters and tranquil atmosphere. On the beachfront there are numerous taverns, pubs and restaurants serving fresh fish and local delicacies. Your day then continues with a visit to Megalochori village, then you will discover the village of Pyrgos. Here you can walk up to the ruins of the Venetian castle. The day wraps up with a visit to a local Santo Winery, for a wine tasting. Did you know that during the rule of the Venetians, between the fourteenth and sixteenth century, Santorini was even producing some of the most valuable wine in all of Europe?

Your day begins with a boat ride, departing the old port at 11:00am. You will sail, enjoying the stunning views, until you reach the volcano lava "Nea Kameni". This volcano is extremely famous for the beautiful caldera, the island is also known for the two small islands of black lava positioned at the centre of the basin of Santorini which are, geographically, the youngest islets in the Eastern Mediterranean. Here you have around an hour to walk up to the crater, which is still active. You will then set sail along the lava rock to reach the hot springs of "Palea Kameni". Here you will stop for around 20 minutes (off shore), giving you time to swim towards the hot springs. The yellow waters contain a large amount of sulfur and are characterized for their therapeutic purposes. Today, Agios Nikolaos which is the small cove in Nea Kameni islet is a true health source. After your swim, you will re-board the boat and sail back to the old port in Fira.

Note:
This tour does not include a guide. You have free time to enjoy the volcano and swim in the hot springs.
You have the option to take a cable car or donkey (additional cost), or walk the 500 steps to reach the old port (up and down).

This afternoon you will be transferred from your hotel in Santorini to Vlihada Marina (in the south of the island) to being the catamaran cruise. The first stop will be at the red beach for swimming, which is arguably one of the most famous and beautiful beaches of Santorini. It is located only some steps away from the ancient site of Akrotiri. The small size of the beach creates a much crowded atmosphere and there are many days where most of the visitors choose not to make it all the way down to the beach and instead admire this unique landscape of red and black volcanic rocks from the headland. Your next stop will be at the white beach for swimming and snorkeling. Snorkeling is ideal for those who would like to explore and get a feel of the underwater world of Santorini. Your evening continues while you sail along Akrotiri and Aspronissi, and reach the hot springs. Here you can swim and enjoy a mud bath. Your cruise this evening includes dinner, which will be served on board. The tour ends at Amoudi Bay, where a mini bus will be waiting to take you back to your hotel.

Today is totally free and at leisure. You can take advantage of any optional activities available or simply relax.