Setting Sail from Fira

As the sun began its gentle ascent over the horizon, I found myself at the old port of Fira, ready to embark on the Caldera Islands Tour. The air was filled with a sense of anticipation, reminiscent of the early morning train journeys I so fondly recall from my youth. The crew, with their warm smiles and welcoming demeanor, reminded me of the attentive conductors who once guided me through the scenic routes of Europe. Their explanations, offered in both Greek and English, painted a vivid picture of the volcanic history that lay ahead.

The ship set sail, and as we glided over the azure waters, I couldn’t help but draw parallels to the rhythmic chug of a train as it weaves through the countryside. Our first destination was the Santorini Volcano, a place where time seemed to stand still. The walk to the active craters was a gentle reminder of the leisurely strolls I often took through quaint European villages, each step revealing a new story, a new sight.

The Wonders of the Caldera

Reaching the top of the volcano, I was greeted by the sight of steam rising from the earth, a testament to the island’s fiery past. It was a moment that evoked the same awe I felt when first witnessing the majestic landscapes of the Swiss Alps from a train window. The air was thick with the scent of sulfur, a reminder of nature’s raw power and beauty.

Our journey continued to the island of Palaia Kameni, home to the famed hot springs. While the springs were not as warm or bubbling as I had imagined, the experience was akin to discovering a hidden gem along a forgotten railway line. The water, though brownish, held a certain charm, much like the rustic beauty of an old train station. As I swam in the tepid waters, I was transported back to the days of leisurely swims in secluded European lakes, where time seemed to slow down, allowing for quiet reflection.

A Glimpse of Thirassia and Beyond

The final leg of our journey took us to the island of Thirassia, a place that felt untouched by time. With two hours to explore, I chose to wander through the narrow streets of Manolas, a village that exuded the same charm as the cobblestone paths of a bygone era. The view of Santorini from this vantage point was nothing short of breathtaking, reminiscent of the sweeping vistas seen from a train as it rounds a bend, revealing a new panorama.

As we sailed back to Fira, the crew ensured we had a perfect view of Oia’s cliffs, a sight that rivaled the most picturesque landscapes of Europe. The journey concluded with a climb up the 588 steps to Fira, a physical yet rewarding experience that mirrored the satisfaction of reaching a mountain summit by train. For those less inclined to walk, the option of a cable car or donkey ride added a touch of whimsy to the adventure.

Reflecting on the day’s excursion, I was reminded of the timeless allure of slow travel. Much like my cherished train journeys, the Caldera Islands Tour offered a chance to savor each moment, to connect with the past, and to appreciate the beauty of the present. It was a day well spent, a journey that will linger in my memory like the gentle hum of a train on a distant track.