Imerovigli Holidays

The Greek village of Imerovigli sits high up on Santorini's north-west cliffs, providing epic views of the Aegean Sea. The village's been destroyed twice – once by a volcano in the Middle Ages, and again by an earthquake in the 1950s. Determined residents rebuilt the village both times, which explains why it's so pristine.

Imerovigli's best known for its Cycladic churches – you'll recognise them by their iconic whitewashed walls and bright blue domes. The Chapel of Agios Ioannis Apokefalistheis stands proudly beside Skaros Rock – once the location of a 13th-century castle. Clamber up at dusk for a spectacular sunset view.

From Imerovigli's dizzying heights, you can drive to the island's cosmopolitan capital of Thira in just five minutes. There, you'll find shops, bars and chic tavernas, as well as boat trips to the volcanic isle of Nea Kameni. Prepare for otherworldly views along the way, and the chance to swim in a volcanic hot spring.

To see the island's crater-like caldera up close and personal, you can stroll along a trail that passes through Imerovigli. It stretches from the pretty village of Oia all the way to Thira, with sights like the monastery of Agios Nikolaos and Firostefani en route.The entire route takes three hours, but you can join it for a stroll for as little or as long as you please. There are plenty of scenic spots to pause for a drink or snack along the way.