A historic charmer in Santorini
Some destinations seem to age as beautifully and gracefully as a fine wine, and this agricultural village in the heartlands of Santorini is certainly one of them. Little Megalocori looks much as it did when it was built in the 17th century, and has a relaxed, easygoing pace and time-honoured traditions, which make it feel somehow separate from the modern world. It’s these qualities that make Megalocori holidays so special.
Take your time drinking in the atmosphere, the local crafts and the distinctive Cycladian architecture, with buildings featuring gleaming white walls and dramatic blue domes. And don’t forget to drink in the Vinsanto, too – Megalocori has a long history of winemaking, and it’s still central to the village today. Around here, it’s all about taking things slowly and enjoying the finer things in life, which is why holidays to Megalocori are sure to go to your head.
Your Megalocori questions, answered
In low-key Megalocori, the emphasis is on great food served at simple, traditional tavernas. Order dishes made with locally grown crops, such as cherry tomatoes or fava beans.
A 15-minute drive will get you to the buzzy beach resort of Kamari, which has distinctive black sand, fun water sports and a slick contemporary restaurant scene.
Yes – the ruins of the Minoan city of Akrotiri are just 5 kilometres away. Referred to as the ‘Pompeii of the Aegean’, it was buried by volcanic dust more than 3,500 years ago.
Best things to do in Megalocori
Visit a winery
Local vineyards produce some of Greece’s most popular wine and there are plenty of places to take a tour where you can learn about the process and sample some of the results.
Grab a crafty souvenir
Local artisans do things the old-fashioned way, and you can pick up a distinctively Greek keepsake – pottery with decoration inspired by Minoan art recovered from nearby Akrotiri.
Take a stroll
The most authentic way to savour the atmosphere is by meandering unhurriedly along the quiet, narrow streets, pausing around noon for a glass of wine and a chat.