Overview: the route consists of about 2.5 km, and takes to complete from 40 minutes to an hour and a half depending on the stops that are made to rest and take photos. It is important to wear sunglasses, hat, sneakers, sunscreen and water.
Here you have a link where you can see the route on a map with detailed photos: See route
The route begins in Kamari, close to Hotel Matina. It starts from a paved road uphill with lots of curves. The road is an old street, surrounded by a section of the cemetery of the ancient city. Zafeiropoulos excavations N. (1961 – 1982) revealed the street and its numerous tombs. It covers a large part of the long history of the city that was inhabited since the eighth century BC to the early Christian centuries.
This is a little difficult route as it is uphill and the sun tends to warm strongly. Fortunately, you can find several points to take a rest in the shade of the pines. At one point, you can see the Santorini airport. At halfway, we will find a small path that leads right to the church of Zoodochos Pigi.
Church of Zoodochos Pigi, Santorini
The church, built in the depths of a huge rock, is under the shadow of two carob. A perfect place to relax in the cool shade and take pictures of Kamari which is 200 feet below. The church is actually a white expanse of rock and offers an incredible natural source of drinking water. The water is clear and fresh and fully justifies the name of the church (Zoodochos Pigi = source that gives life).
From here you can go to the top of the hill to the ancient Thira. If you choose to continue the journey, follow the same path from the church towards the paved road up. After 15 minute walking uphill, you’ll reach the top of the hill, a circular plateau that lies between Profitis Elias and ancient Thera. The view is incredible, Perissa & Kamari are ahead. There you will find a cement table that illustrates the map of ancient Thera.
Ancient Thera, Santorini
Once there, you’ll find three options:
- Go up the hill to the Monastery Profitis Ilias.
- Go left (looking left towards Perissa) to the archaeological site of Ancient Thera.
- Continue straight on the road towards Perissa.
