The sun sets every day, but most of us, absorbed in our everyday routine, don´t really pay much attention. However, when we are on an island holiday, who can remain unmoved by the spectacular sight of a sunset? It is not necessary to be romantic or in love to enjoy this magical moment of the day, when the landscape changes and everything takes on a warm color.
From the Ionian Islands to the Cyclades and Crete, from enchanting beaches to castles perched on top of hills, we have singled out some of the best spots on the Greek islands to catch a spectacular sunset. The old saying goes that “a picture’s worth a thousand words”, so let the pictures do the talking…
Oia, Santorini
Santorini is one of the most popular places in the world for its sunset. The settlement of Oia, the most visited village in Santorini and the second largest after Fira, the capital town of the island, is beyond doubt the most romantic spot on the island and one of the most photographed places in Greece. Touristy as it may sound, the sunset in Oia, with the Caldera in the background, is a unique sight that you must see at least once in your lifetime.
Little Venice, Mykonos
“Little Venice” is perhaps the most famous quarter of Mykonos. This neighborhood with its captain houses and colorful balconies hanging over the water, is ideal for taking countless photos and immersing yourself in the Mykonian atmosphere. It is also world famous as the spot where you will enjoy the most astonishing sunset of the island.
Naxos Portara (or Temple Of Apollo)
The most photographed attraction and landmark of Naxos island is definitely the impressive “Portara” at the northern end of the port. This is a massive marble temple gate of the 6th century BC, built in honor of the god Apollo. It is connected to the mainland through a paved path and if you are there at sunset, you will enjoy one of the most spectacular sunsets in the Aegean, as the gate looks like a huge picture frame on the horizon.
Plaka, Milos
Plaka village is the capital town of Milos island. Big fans of Milos swear that visitors in ´Plaka´ will enjoy one of the most stunning sunsets of the Cyclades. Hiking up to its Venetian castle, built during the 13th century, is a rewarding experience for its gorgeous sunset, but also for its panoramic view of Milos bay and the neighboring Cycladic islands.
Folegandros Church of Panagia, Folegandros
It is impossible to find yourself in Folegandros and not tempted to follow the stone zigzag path that starts from Pounda Square Chora and goes up to the Church of Panagia, after a 15 minute walk. The ideal time to visit it is in late afternoon, so that you can enjoy the magical sunset, as the sun is falling into the horizon line, and gaze at Chora, which stretches out on the edge of the cliff, up to the neighboring islands.
Keri, Zakynthos
If you find yourself in Zante (Zakynthos), be sure to enjoy the sunset at Keri, a resort with crystal clear sea and magnificent views at the southwestern part of the island. The view of the Ionian Sea from the amphitheatre location of Keri is one of those images that you will never forget.
Myrtos, Kefalonia
Myrtos is the world-famous, star beach of Kefalonia, which is consistently included in the lists of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The vertical limestone cliffs, surrounded by a pine forest and the unique blue color of the sea, due to the sea currents of the area, make the landscape a resplendent painting. If you add the image of the golden sun dipping into the waters, then we are definitely talking about a dreamy setting.
The Venetian Port of Chania, Crete
A walk to Chania’s Venetian Harbor with the Egyptian Lighthouse – the jewel and trademark of the city – is all it takes to fall in love with Chania, The old harbour area with a mixture of Cretan, Ottoman and Venetian elements beckons visitors to enjoy a journey through time. This spot is beautiful at any time of the day, but at sunset it is magnificent indeed.
Lighthouse of Cape Lefkatas, Leykada
The legendary Cape of Lefkata, located at the southernmost tip of Lefkada, is inextricably linked to the island’s history and inspires admiration to those who visit it. The Lefkata lighthouse is built on top of an ancient temple dedicated to Apollo. The landscape is wild and enchanting and the sunset from there is a unique experience.
Angelokastro Castle (Angel Castle), Corfu
Angelokastro, a Byzantine fortress on a steep hilltop, is one of the most important fortified complexes of Corfu and one of the most imposing architectural remains in the Ionian Islands. It was an acropolis which surveyed the region all the way to the southern Adriatic. It is located near the mountain village of Lakones, above the famous Paleokastritsa village. Take a breath and climb up for its amazing view and one of the best sunsets you will see in Corfu.
