GALLERY: U 125 Aircraft

The white town of Oia. Oia is the northernmost and perhaps the most romantic town on the island of Santorini. The white town literally hangs over the caldera. At every turn you can see old mills, narrow streets, terraced houses, stairs and cul-de-sacs, domes, arches and small hotels. In 1956, the town was partially destroyed by the earthquake, but it was quickly restored. Many hotels in Oia have no more than 5-6 rooms. It is believed that Oia has the best and the most expensive restaurants, shops, as well as the most impressive view of the sunset. Thousands of people come to watch it every evening. The world`s most beautiful and romantic sunsets, which seem to exist only in Oia, are the most important thing here apart from the volcanoes glowing in the bay. You can watch the famous sunsets of Oia only from the western part of the resort, which overlooks Amoudi Bay. The eastern part is also very picturesque: it offers a wonderful view of Armeni Bay, but there are no such sunsets as in the west. Traffic is forbidden in Oia, so nothing will prevent you from enjoying a walk through the streets, the embankment, shops, cafes and restaurants. But there is one place in Oia, which you can reach either by car or coming down the steps (235 steps). This is the old fishing port of Amoudi. Amoudi will immediately seem to be suspiciously familiar to you, and it`s not surprising – you can see it in many films. Building norms in Oia are observed in the strictest manner; therefore, even new houses are built according to the Cycladic architecture style: rounded forms, white, blue and ochre tones, narrow stoned streets, stairs leading to patios in front of houses carved into rocks. Patriarchal beauty of Oia is not violated by modern technologies, because thanks to its patrons, power lines and telephone lines of the town are laid underground. And this is the only place on the island where water is desalinated using a special unit, also received by the town as a gift. Today Oia is a popular tourist center with a well-developed infrastructure. This town seems to be created for long walks and is perfect for lovers of quiet rest, and the magnificent panoramic views of the island and its giant caldera will leave a lot of unforgettable impressions.