Don't Worry - Go Hiking
After laying or cruising around for most of our holiday we were itching to move. So, we decided to brave the heat and do the one thing that allows you to seize the most of the beautiful Santorini island - we went on a hike.
When I was young I hated hiking with a passion. I thought it was boring and pointless. But the older I get the more fond of it I find myself. Although, hiking in the Greek late summer heat was definitely a first. But so so worth it!
We started of right across from our hotel in Finikia and followed the inner lining of the island. This meant we started out with this stunning view.
Admittedly, we didn't make it very far before we took the first break to enjoy the scenery and watch the ocean gently swaying.
Looking back towards Oía every now and then.
The white paint which covers most buildings and sight is a necessity to thwart off the worst of the heat as white reflects the sunlight and, thus, diverts it and helps keeping the inside cool. Of course it also looks marvellous against the deep blue sky and Sea.
We followed the path en route to Fira, the island's capital. The way was mostly easy with some inclines which were mostly manageable. The way is paved with this light grey gravel. This can get a bit tricky on declining parts as it doesn't offer any grip so you slide a bit on your way down.
When you get closer to the city the resorts start lining the way allowing you to peek into other people's vacation and pool lounging behaviour. Which wouldn't be for me but from the other side of the fence it was quite fun to watch.
As you can see, there were no clouds to be seen the entire time we were on our way. It was absolutely crucial that we splashed on a good, high-factor sunscreen which we also took along to fresh up. Personally, my skin does not deal well with sunshine at all. I don't tan no matter what I do. While everyone else gets glowing skin that easily tells of their sunny vacation, I remain deadly pale. That also means my skin gets irritated and red after just a few minutes.
For hikes like this I got a sun-proof long-sleeve shirt (meant for surfing according to Decathlon, but it easily works for land-bound sport activities too). These are really thin so you aren't sweating - well not more than you would in a short sleeved top. Additionally, hardware is a must. I actually had to buy a basecap as I forgot to bring one.
At this point of the hike I would have loved to jump into that Pool. But alas, on and on we went.
Finally we made it to the outskirts of Fira. That meant more and taller buildings and finally some shade for us.
We watched the big cruise ship deposit their passengers at the little harbour below.
Just look at all these shades of blue!
We then went to explore the city and get a huge pot of frozen yogurt each. Obviously, it is a tiny town and there sure a more exciting and more beautiful places but it was a nice day and we enjoyed some shopping (and air-conditioning).
Eventually, we made our way to the bus station and boarded a coach back to Finikia. The station was a bit confusing at first but we simply asked the nearest driver and were immediately directed to the correct bus which deposited us almost directly in front of hour hotel.
While this wasn't our last day on Santorini, it was the last adventure worth telling. This concludes the Santorini retelling. I am still head over heels in love with this small slice of heaven on earth and will definitely be back.
When I was young I hated hiking with a passion. I thought it was boring and pointless. But the older I get the more fond of it I find myself. Although, hiking in the Greek late summer heat was definitely a first. But so so worth it!
We started of right across from our hotel in Finikia and followed the inner lining of the island. This meant we started out with this stunning view.
Admittedly, we didn't make it very far before we took the first break to enjoy the scenery and watch the ocean gently swaying.
Looking back towards Oía every now and then.
The white paint which covers most buildings and sight is a necessity to thwart off the worst of the heat as white reflects the sunlight and, thus, diverts it and helps keeping the inside cool. Of course it also looks marvellous against the deep blue sky and Sea.
We followed the path en route to Fira, the island's capital. The way was mostly easy with some inclines which were mostly manageable. The way is paved with this light grey gravel. This can get a bit tricky on declining parts as it doesn't offer any grip so you slide a bit on your way down.
When you get closer to the city the resorts start lining the way allowing you to peek into other people's vacation and pool lounging behaviour. Which wouldn't be for me but from the other side of the fence it was quite fun to watch.
As you can see, there were no clouds to be seen the entire time we were on our way. It was absolutely crucial that we splashed on a good, high-factor sunscreen which we also took along to fresh up. Personally, my skin does not deal well with sunshine at all. I don't tan no matter what I do. While everyone else gets glowing skin that easily tells of their sunny vacation, I remain deadly pale. That also means my skin gets irritated and red after just a few minutes.
For hikes like this I got a sun-proof long-sleeve shirt (meant for surfing according to Decathlon, but it easily works for land-bound sport activities too). These are really thin so you aren't sweating - well not more than you would in a short sleeved top. Additionally, hardware is a must. I actually had to buy a basecap as I forgot to bring one.
At this point of the hike I would have loved to jump into that Pool. But alas, on and on we went.
Finally we made it to the outskirts of Fira. That meant more and taller buildings and finally some shade for us.
We watched the big cruise ship deposit their passengers at the little harbour below.
Just look at all these shades of blue!
We then went to explore the city and get a huge pot of frozen yogurt each. Obviously, it is a tiny town and there sure a more exciting and more beautiful places but it was a nice day and we enjoyed some shopping (and air-conditioning).
Eventually, we made our way to the bus station and boarded a coach back to Finikia. The station was a bit confusing at first but we simply asked the nearest driver and were immediately directed to the correct bus which deposited us almost directly in front of hour hotel.
While this wasn't our last day on Santorini, it was the last adventure worth telling. This concludes the Santorini retelling. I am still head over heels in love with this small slice of heaven on earth and will definitely be back.
Comments
Post a Comment