Highlights
HD – Ilias – Pyrgos – Winery

Arrival at Santorini (or Thira as it was called in ancient times). Disembarkation by tender–boats Our local assistant will await you down at the port and ascend with you by the cable-car to the capital of Fira. You will have an approximate 10 minutes walk to the parking-lot to board the awaiting coach to start the tour.

First stop will be made to visit the Monastery of Profitis Ilias which is at the highest point on Santorini which spans to 1,856 feet at the summit. From here one can see the surrounding islands and, on a clear day, even the mountains of Crete – more than 100 km (66 miles) away.

Pyrgos can be found at next high spot of Santorini, with panoramic views of the whole island all the way to the village of Oia. This hillside village was declared a protected settlement in 1995. On the hilltop we find the ruins of Kasteli Castle, one of the five kastelia on the island. Pyrgos is a typical Fortress Settlement of the Cyclades with traditional architecture, remains of neo-classical mansions, narrow winding paths leading up the hillside, small white houses, galleries, vineyards and churches.
If you make your way from the main square towards the mansion of Zannos Melathron and up, you will discover one or two wonderful hillside cafes from which you can sip on a glass of wine and breathe in the panoramic views.

Our last stop will be at the Wine Promotion Center where is offered:
-A guided tour of the Santo Wines winery, where one can see the whole wine making process, from the moment of grape pressing up to bottling.
-A visit to the aging cellars where one can feel the atmosphere created from the combination of the barrels wood with the wine which is in the process of aging.
-A taste of wines. Specialized enologists give away the wines hidden secrets, while the visitors may taste and get to know the various types of companys famous wines.

The tour ends again in Fira where free time will be left for shopping and enjoying the marvelous view for which the island is world-famous. Descend to the Old Port by cable-car for re-embarkation.

INCLUDING

Transportation in comfortable A/C vehicles;
Experienced English-speaking tour-escort (NOT official guide);
Entrance fee to the winery;
Round-trip ticket for the cable-car Old Port – Fira – Old Port).

EXCLUDING

Tickets/fare for tender-boats from/to the ship;
Assistance during the free time in Fira after the tour;
Any gratuities for Escort & Driver;
Any meals and/or drinks (except during the wine-tasting);
Any kind of other personal expenses.