Santorini, the southernmost island of Cyclades, is truly a gem of the Aegean Sea. There aren’t many places in the world where you can cherish the sight of the blue seawater while standing on the rim of an active volcano. The crescent-shaped group of islands is the ideal romantic getaway for honeymooners. Over the years, it has also become a highly sought-after wedding destination for couples all over the world.

The uniqueness of Santorini is further enhanced by the fact that the islands offer something exciting for all kinds of travelers. If you are one of those people who prefer a bit of adrenaline rush on their vacations, “Santorini Experience” has got you covered. It is a one-of-its-kind sports extravaganza that combines open water swimming from a volcano and running amidst the picturesque locales of Santorini. The event is open to both professional and amateur athletes. 

The three-day sports festival is co-organized by the Santorini Municipality, Municipal Sports Cultural & Environmental Organization in Santorini (DAPPOS) and the award-winning Active Media Group. The fourth edition of “Santorini Experience”, organized in October 2018, included overwhelming participation from across the globe.

Every Swimmer’s Delight

This year, swimmers were rewarded with an extraordinary swim from the volcano to the old port of Fira. The 2.4 km swim route was designed by the Federal Swimming Technician, coach of Olympic medalists, Nikos Gemelos. This route has been a favorite of many eminent open water swimmers including the Hungarian swimmer, Attila Manyoki, a member of the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame (IMSHOF) and the British twice silver Olympic medalist, at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, Jazz Carlin. 

Renowned Olympic athletes and open water swimmers such as Spyros Gianniotis, Kelly Araouzou, Antonis Fokaidis, Giorgos Arniakos, and Dimitris Negris have participated in previous editions of “Santorini Experience”. If you are the competitive kind, the fast-paced race is sure to thrill you. However, the scenic landscape surrounding you might tempt you to slow down and just enjoy the swim.

What sets this event apart is the way the organizers prioritize participants’ safety at each step. Experienced lifeguards and watercraft are deployed along the way to ensure complete safety. While anyone is welcome to join the swim, only 14-year olds and above are allowed to participate in the race.

Santorini Experience _ Unique Experience _ Greece

Every Athlete’s Dream

If swimming in the clear blue water of the Aegean Sea doesn’t tempt you as much, “Santorini Experience” also offers various scenic trail running routes. All of these routes fall on the enchanting path that connects Oia with Fira, overlooking the Caldera. You will also get a glimpse of the distinctive settlements of Imerovigli, Firostefani, and Oia. These routes commence at the desalination plant in Oia, take a full circle and again, end in Oia.

Routes for the fourth edition were curated by the Greek classic route record holder and technical director of the event, Nikos Polias. Participants had the option to pick from a 5 km “Aristides Alafouzos” running and dynamic walking route, a 10 km long-distance running route and a 15 km race. The craggy terrain, switching constantly between downhill and uphill paths, tested surely their strength and stamina.

The 5 km and 10 km races are open to 12-year olds and above. However, the age limit for the 15 km race is 18-years old and above. As with the swimming competition, the organizers take special care to safeguard all participants. The event organizers have tie-ups with various premium hotels in Santorini, ensuring a pleasant stay and a memorable experience.

Moving On…

Now that you are tempted, don’t you wish you had participated in the spectacular event this year? The good news is that you will get a second chance. The fifth chapter of “Santorini Experience” will be organized between 4th and 6th October 2019. 

Be a part of this fun and thrilling event set amidst the picture-perfect panorama of one of the most popular destinations in Greece. Witness how sports bridges the gap between people of different communities, from all over the world. 

For more info: http://www.santorini-experience.com/

Santorini Experience Address: Megalochori 847 00, Greece
Phone: +30 697 791 4720
Email:info@santorini-experience.com