Santorini is justly regarded as one of the world's most spectacular places, with the town of Oia being voted one of the top 25 destinations in Europe in 2011.

Santorini is the southernmost of the Cyclades group of islands, 130 nautical miles from Piraeus and 65 nautical miles from Crete. Its official name is Thira or Thera, but it is more commonly known as Santorini. Santorini has an area of some thirty square miles, with about 13.500 people living in its thirteen villages. 

There are many spectacular beaches around the extensive coastline of Santorini, combining the unique volcanic sand with crystal blue seas. Two of the best beaches are Kamari and Monolithos, each about three miles from the training center in Messaria, and Perissa, about five miles away, is also well worth visiting. The beach facilities include a wide variety of water sports such as windsurfing, parasailing, jet skiing, snorkeling and scuba diving.

The combination of the hot arid climate and the volcanic geology of the island contributes to the unique scenery and breathtaking sunset views. The volcanic soil is also extremely fertile, and Santorini, particularly the area around Messaria, is noted for the quality of its wines.

Santorini has great archaeological interest, and is believed by some to be the legendary lost city of Atlantis. Commonly referred to as the "Greek Pompeii", excavations have uncovered the civilization that has been preserved by volcanic ash since the catastrophic eruption of the volcano in about 1600 BC, a thousand years before the classical age of Athens. There are numerous museums in Santorini, the most important of which are The Museum of Prehistoric Thera and The Archaeological Museum, both located in Fira.

When the sun goes down, there are entertainment options for all ages and preferences from sophisticated cocktail bars with views of the Caldera, clubs with music for all tastes, and parties on the beach.