We are not the type to plan too much; we prefer to go without any fixed plans and decide what to do each day based on the kids’ mood and ours!
The only thing we decided in advance was the choice of hotel. After some research, we chose Nous Santorini, and we couldn’t be happier and more satisfied with our choice!
The location, relatively close to the airport yet far enough from the city chaos, is perfect!
We stayed in a family villa with a private pool and two spacious bedrooms, accommodating us and delighting the little ones.
They felt at home with king-size beds to jump on as much as they wanted, Netflix to watch cartoons when they woke up, a shower for all three to bathe together, and a private pool where they could relax and play a lot without disturbing anyone.
In addition to our spacious and comfortable villa, the entire hotel is stunning!
Besides the main pool that invites you for a good swim, there’s a small heated pool that the kids love. We spent the holidays hearing, “Mom, let’s go to the hotel jacuzzi!”
The breakfasts are delicious, with many healthy options and more indulgent ones that are great for the little ones.
The spa offers a wide range of massages and treatments, and it was our refuge when we needed to relax after a lot of walking during the day!
I have always been connected to events, and I had the privilege of exploring their interior big room connected to a terrace with a sea view, perfect for hosting all kinds of ceremonies.
I already know where I’m going to celebrate my golden wedding anniversary!!!
Vlichada Beach is renowned for its striking scenery. The beach is framed by towering white cliffs sculpted by the wind and sea, giving them an otherworldly, almost lunar appearance. These natural formations create a dramatic backdrop against the dark volcanic sand and pebbles of the beach, offering a stark contrast that is both beautiful and mesmerizing. It is less crowded than other beaches on the island, making it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy peace. The beach's spaciousness means plenty of room to spread out and find your little piece of paradise. Don't forget to bring Essentials: while there is a bar, it's a good idea to bring your water, snacks, and beach gear.
Perivolos Beach is renowned for its long stretch of black volcanic sand, a hallmark of Santorini's beaches. The deep blue waters of the Aegean Sea create a striking contrast against the dark sand, making it a picturesque spot for sunbathing and swimming. This very large beach is perfect for walking along the shoreline because, despite having pebbles, it also has plenty of fine, comfortable sand. What sets Perivolos Beach apart is its lively and energetic atmosphere. The beach offers a unique vibe with many bars that host live DJ sets and events, creating a festive atmosphere that often continues well into the evening. The kids loved being on the beach with the music playing, and we, the parents, could only imagine staying there all night dancing by the sea! For the adventurous, Perivolos Beach offers a wide range of water sports and activities. You can rent jet skis, go windsurfing, try paddleboarding, or take a thrilling ride on a banana boat. With a three-year-old kid, we opt for a Pacific option! Ample parking is available near the beach.
Red Beach gets its name from the towering red cliffs surrounding it, which are composed of volcanic rock and ash. The contrast between the deep red cliffs, the dark volcanic sand, and the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea creates a breathtaking and surreal scene. The beach is relatively small but incredibly picturesque, offering stunning views and photo opportunities. Access to Red Beach involves a short walk down a steep path from the parking area, which adds to its secluded and natural appeal. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for the hike. With three young children, the descent seemed challenging, so we decided to stay and enjoy the view from up here! We then headed to Kamini Beach, where we could more easily access Red Beach!
Kaminia Beach is known for its peaceful and secluded atmosphere. Unlike the more crowded beaches in Santorini, Kaminia remains relatively undiscovered, making it ideal for those seeking a quieter beach experience. Cliffs and natural rock formations surround the beach, adding charm and privacy. Access to Kaminia Beach requires a long car ride on a small road that is not very easy to drive and a short walk down a path from the parking area, ensuring its peaceful ambience. In the end, there's a small café for refreshments and snacks.
Caldera Beach, nestled within the iconic Santorini Caldera, offers a unique and serene beach experience against towering cliffs and stunning volcanic scenery. Caldera Beach offers a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere, unlike some of the more bustling beaches in Santorini. It's an ideal spot for those seeking tranquillity and a quieter beach experience away from the crowds. The calm waters and gentle waves make it perfect for swimming and lounging under the Mediterranean sun. There is a diving school and snorkelling equipment rental available. With young children, I grabbed the snorkelling kits and swam in the beach's warm waters. The kids loved exploring the surrounding nature, and the shaded areas provided by the beach were perfect for the little one's naps.
We chose to visit more beaches and enjoy long hours of swimming and relaxation rather than visiting the villages extensively.
Nonetheless, we were told immediately that we had to visit Pyrgos, and we didn’t regret it!
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Fira offers some of the most breathtaking views in Santorini, with panoramic vistas of the Caldera, volcanic islands, and the sparkling blue sea below. The town's cliffside location provides numerous vantage points for capturing stunning photos, especially during sunrise and sunset. We can park the car in a few parking lots, and the rest is done on foot! This was the first place where we felt some stress! There were many people on the streets and some confusion, but we had to explore and take the opportunity to shop and bring home souvenirs! There are a lot of local handicrafts and souvenirs to designer boutiques and jewellery shops. There are plenty of places to eat, but finding an ideal spot for dining with kids wasn't easy. We stopped at one place where we enjoyed a splendid view but had mediocre and unremarkable food. Nevertheless, the visit was worth it; seeing the city during the day and then at night is magical! We don't recommend staying overnight, but it's great for a day trip.
Oia, perched on the northern tip of Santorini, Greece, is renowned for its breathtaking views, traditional Cycladic architecture, and romantic sunsets. Walking through Oia feels like stepping into a traditional Greek island postcard. The village has charming boutiques, art galleries, and souvenir shops offering handmade ceramics, jewellery, and local artwork. We stopped at Roka Restaurant, which is situated in an old building in an area where you can admire old preserved captain houses. The warm colours of the small courtyard filled with trees and flowers give you the feeling of a relaxing and pleasant welcome escaping from the crowd. Inside are three small charming rooms to sit in, ideal for some colder nights, near the wooden stove, where you can enjoy delicate flavours. We loved the food, and they especially made simple pasta for the kids; they loved it!
We wanted to see the acclaimed sunset recommended almost everywhere on the island. We stopped at a new fancy restaurant called Roka (hotel Cavo Tagoo), which had a great and trendy vibe. We only realized after sitting down that it was Japanese and not very child-friendly! The sunset was amazing and worth it, and the kids ended up enjoying the atmosphere and exploring the fish they had in aquariums at the bar!
We talked several times about buying swimming shoes, but in the end, we didn’t.
Strap-on sandals and Crocs fro the kids work fine; we only need to take them off when we enter the sea.
We all have rigid feet, and we adapted to the beach pebbles by the end of the day!
We love to dress our kids in Molo’s playful designs, and for the beach, they’re perfect because we can spot them even far away!
They offers an array of swimwear that perfectly blends style, comfort, and practicality for kids.
The youngest is three years old and often asks to be carried! A good toddler swing like my from Wildride was our salvation on many challenging paths!
When it comes to travel, especially with kids, a reliable backpack can make all the difference!
We choose one from Thule and we took it everywhere with all our kids essencials!
We brought one small cooler that our kids usually get to school from Grech&Co , and we knew it would come in handy. It did!
Every day, we stopped at a grocery store to stock up on essentials for the kids, and it often came in handy because not all beaches have restaurants nearby.
This way, we could stay longer at the beaches.
Our kids love the Sun Stick Color from Seventy-One. It’s portable, ultra-practical and 100% recyclable. Every day, they did a different painting on the face and had a lot of fun with it!
My favourite for all days is the Feel Golden SPF30, an anti-ageing and moisturizing hybrid tinted fluid treatment that isperfect for covering all my stains.
A small backpack with books, colored pencils, and small, practical games like Plus Plus puzzles is essential for keeping the kids entertained in longer restaurants.
Our family trip to Santorini was a remarkable adventure that exceeded our expectations.
Despite initial concerns about traveling with young children, the beauty, culture, and charm of Santorini made every moment worthwhile!
From exploring stunning beaches and historical sites to enjoying delicious cuisine and breathtaking sunsets, we created unforgettable memories together.
Traveling with kids taught us that with a positive mindset, flexibility, and a spirit of adventure, even the most daunting trips can turn into the most cherished experiences.
Santorini welcomed us with open arms, and we left with hearts full of joy!
By Nice Mum, Isabel
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