Oia: artists and the famous sunset

In the traditional village of Oia (Ia) in Santorini, where the sea meets the sky, the full moon, the sunrise and the sunset are considered to be one of the best in the world.Oia is where many of the most breathtaking pictures in the travel brochures for Greece are taken. Its narrow, winding streets are a delight to explore and it is generally less crowded than Fira.
The village Oia
All this changes at about 6 p.m. , when the tourists begin flooding in for the most hyped show on Santorini – the sunset of Oai. One minute, the bright sun glares on the walls and reflects from the roofs; the next minute, it softens the white while brightening the yellow and bringing out the undertone of the various shades of blue. For half an hour or so, the ball of fire alters the colour of the sky, dulls the mirror-like sea, and transforms the entire look of the land. Then it lowers itself slowly into the water, melts its heat into the cool sea, resting for a few hours before raising its torch anew for another day on the island. Bring your camera and do not move from your good spot. You will never forget these coloured views of the Caldera. This is something that will remain in your memory forever.

The village consists of houses, tourist rooms, bars, restaurants, churches and souvenir shops - from a distance it is difficult to tell what any given building is. Narrow paths wind between the buildings, and flights of steps, which seem to be heading nowhere, transport you to another terrace or pathway. This is a great place to spend a morning getting lost.

The white washed buildings of Oia on Santorini sit on the steep cliffs and create a romantic image.
As the sunset sets on this beautiful haven, the buildings reflect the wonderful colours after the most famous sunset on Santorini Island.
This small village is only 12km away from Thira. Bus KTEL departs from the coach station will take you there for about €1 fare. The ride takes 30 minutes, and fare is purchased onboard. Oia has the same blue on whitewashed as Thira does, but there are also many shades of ochre, pastel and a good use of grey colour.

Under the guidance of the island's elders, you will feel comfortable at our place

Mantha & Stephanos Chalaris