Firostefani Holidays

With its traditional whitewashed houses perched on the edge of a volcanic crater, Firostefani's got those classic Santorini good looks. Sitting on the island's north-west coast, this ancient village faces the deep blues of the Aegean Sea for that postcard-worthy Greek island view.

Firostefani itself is as tranquil as island villages come, but there's plenty of activity nearby. Head downhill along the coastal path and you'll stumble upon the cosmopolitan capital of Thira, about 15 minutes’ walk away. This busy little town's packed with contemporary shops, bars, restaurants and two cathedrals.

For a day on the beach, drive 20 minutes east to reach three of Santorini's famous volcanic stretches. The flashiest of the bunch is the Blue Flag award-winning beach at Kamari – an upmarket resort on the island's east coast. Stake out your spot under a thatched parasol in the black sand, then pay your respects to Poseidon at his temple.

For some watersports action on the bright azure sea, head for the black-sand beach at Perivolos. Windsurfing, scuba diving, wakeboarding and jet-skiing are the rip-roaring options here. Once you've built up an appetite, take a break for a bite at one of the laidback tavernas along the seafront.