Skaros Rock

The basics

Skaros Rock can be seen for miles around, both by land and sea, and stops to take it in from afar are included in many Santorini driving, boat, and helicopter tours, especially those timed to catch the sunset. Its dramatic position directly over the caldera makes it a popular destination for photography tours, and hiking tours visit Skaros Rock by following the trail from Imerovigli village.

Things to know before you go

• Skaros Rock is a paradise for photographers, especially at dusk when it offers a sweeping sunset view over the caldera.

• Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared to take on long flights of stairs to reach the top of the cliff.

• If hiking to Skaros Rock, be sure to visit the nearby whitewashed chapel of Ekklisia Theoskepasti, a remnant of Skaros’ early Catholic settlement, as well as the ruins of the Byzantine fortress that once stood on its peak.

• With a steep trail and steps, the scenic outlook is not accessible to wheelchairs or strollers.

How to get there

Skaros Rock is outside of the village of Imerovigli, just under 2 miles (3 kilometers) north of Fira on Santorini Island. You can only reach the clifftop on foot, so join a guided hiking tour to walk to the promontory’s far point, or take in the view from afar with a driving or boat tour. Some helicopter tours fly over Skaros Rock, but do not land there.

When to get there

Known for its western views, Skaros Rock is best visited at the end of the day to watch the sunset over the caldera. The heat and sun on Santorini can be unforgiving, so start in the early morning or late afternoon if you're hiking there.

The long history of Skaros Rock

In addition to its scenic location, Skaros Rock is historically significant as the site of the first of five fortresses, known as kasteli, that were built on Santorini in the 15th century to defend the island from marauders. A series of earthquakes damaged the fortress over the centuries, and it was eventually abandoned for Fira.