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Take a Trek to the Red Beach of Santorini, Greece
Published by Maya Franciszkiewicz, Writer
Country: Greece 
The Experience
There is an air of mysticism which surrounds the Greek Islands. As the setting for some of the oldest myths, it is no surprise that there is a powerful allure drawing tourists and travellers to these majestic islands.
Some of the Greek Islands have become so popular that they have lost some of their authentic appeal and become tourist hotspots filled with hotels, gift shops and tourism agencies. The beautiful Island of Santorini, though a popular destination, has somehow maintained a low-key atmosphere with traditional villages and unique, breathtaking landscapes. Aside from the spectacular sunsets over sunken volcanic islands, one must-see site is the cliff-enclosed Red Beach. Cut off by striking red cliffs, reaching the beach on foot is an adventure all on its own.
The journey to the Red Beach of Santorini starts out in Fira, about one hour north by moped. The winding, narrow roads take you through yellow fields and along precarious cliffs dotted with low, domed white houses with the traditional blue trim. It’s interesting to note that almost all buildings on the island of Santorini follow the same colour scheme, which is part trademark and part sun protection, but either way invoking a sense of awe in those who see it.
Once you arrive at the parking area, the Red Beach is accessible by boat or on foot. Hiking up the red cliffs, the view of the ocean and the enclosed rocky beach is an unexpected wonder, way beyond your expectations. Though the Red Beach can get slightly crowded in high tourist season, its unique red and black sands make it worth the slightly precarious trek down the narrow rocky path.
The Red Beach and surrounding cliffs are a dark shade of maroon due to the type of lava which cooled here thousands of years ago. The island of Santorini itself was formed by a volcanic eruption some 3,700 years ago, and is the biggest of the Greek Islands and has been described by many as the most picturesque. Once you’ve completed the trek, it is time for a well-deserved swim in the cool Aegean waters. Floating in the soft waves while looking up at the gigantic, red cliffs is as relaxing an experience as you could hope. Even as the sun begins to set, it’s hard to say goodbye to this small strip of beach. Many people report that Santorini's beaches have some of the world’s most breathtaking sunsets, and nowhere did this ring truer than in the view sitting on the Red Beach watching the sun sink into the horizon and light up the red cliffs, giving them the appearance of being on fire. With much to explore and experience, a trip to the Red Beach is wonderful way to spend a full day in Santorini.
Some of the Greek Islands have become so popular that they have lost some of their authentic appeal and become tourist hotspots filled with hotels, gift shops and tourism agencies. The beautiful Island of Santorini, though a popular destination, has somehow maintained a low-key atmosphere with traditional villages and unique, breathtaking landscapes. Aside from the spectacular sunsets over sunken volcanic islands, one must-see site is the cliff-enclosed Red Beach. Cut off by striking red cliffs, reaching the beach on foot is an adventure all on its own.
The journey to the Red Beach of Santorini starts out in Fira, about one hour north by moped. The winding, narrow roads take you through yellow fields and along precarious cliffs dotted with low, domed white houses with the traditional blue trim. It’s interesting to note that almost all buildings on the island of Santorini follow the same colour scheme, which is part trademark and part sun protection, but either way invoking a sense of awe in those who see it.
Once you arrive at the parking area, the Red Beach is accessible by boat or on foot. Hiking up the red cliffs, the view of the ocean and the enclosed rocky beach is an unexpected wonder, way beyond your expectations. Though the Red Beach can get slightly crowded in high tourist season, its unique red and black sands make it worth the slightly precarious trek down the narrow rocky path.
The Red Beach and surrounding cliffs are a dark shade of maroon due to the type of lava which cooled here thousands of years ago. The island of Santorini itself was formed by a volcanic eruption some 3,700 years ago, and is the biggest of the Greek Islands and has been described by many as the most picturesque. Once you’ve completed the trek, it is time for a well-deserved swim in the cool Aegean waters. Floating in the soft waves while looking up at the gigantic, red cliffs is as relaxing an experience as you could hope. Even as the sun begins to set, it’s hard to say goodbye to this small strip of beach. Many people report that Santorini's beaches have some of the world’s most breathtaking sunsets, and nowhere did this ring truer than in the view sitting on the Red Beach watching the sun sink into the horizon and light up the red cliffs, giving them the appearance of being on fire. With much to explore and experience, a trip to the Red Beach is wonderful way to spend a full day in Santorini.
When to Go to Red Beach Santorini
The best time to visit Red Beach Santorini is in the spring and autumn months as the days are warm and nights are pleasant. The summer sees tourists flocking to the Greek Islands, and prices skyrocket. The Red Beach can get quite busy in the summer months, but if summer is your only option for a Greek vacation it is still a great experience. Autumn can be ideal because the sea has had all summer to warm up and can offer those who love to swim a pleasant experience minus the crowds.
Odds n' Ends
There is no cost to enter the Red Beach of Sanorini, and though tours are offered, those who can brave the winding, cliff-side roads by moped or ATV will get the most of the trip. It should be noted that having experience on these vehicles is recommended as it can be dangerous. There are also local buses which can take you within walking distance of the Red Beach.
Places to Stay Nearby
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This is a great property centrally located and with easy walking distance of the beach, offering a choice of standard rooms, studios and suites. (1008/AC) ...
$28 EUR+
This recently renovated property has a contemporary elegant design. It has one of the largest swimming pools on the island as well as a gym, ... 0 miles away
$140 EUR+
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