 Tezal Santorini Santorini is many people's idea of the quintessential Greece. The picture-perfect island of Santorini is the last of the Cyclades Islands to the south. Surrounding islands include Phalagandros, Sakinos, Anafi, Amorgos and Crete. Generally referred to as a single island, Santorini is actually a series of five islands. Santorini, Thera, is the main island and around it Therese and Aspernici, parts of the ancient Stragili and the two volcanic islands Palliacumeni and Nicumeni. Jules Verne made Santorini famous with his books 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea and the Mysterious Island, where Captain Nemo and his crew watch and volcano erupt. Verne came to Thera during the eruptions of 1866-1870 and wrote the now famous novel soon after. The volcano dominates the area and its caldera view is breathtaking. The Santorini caldera view is famed for its 300-foot cliffs and many of the island's villages are built perched on top, offering sea views for miles out. The cliff is the wall of a submerged volcano crater caused by the cataclysmic eruption of the volcano around 3000 BC. In addition to creating the best views of the Aegean Sea for present-day visitors to enjoy, this eruption was the cause the demise of the Minin civilization. Steeped in history, Santorini has plenty of archaeological sites to visit, including the ruins of ancient Thera, Akrateria and the Venetian Fortress at Pergos. Santorini also offers unique accommodation. There are stunning beaches with plenty of beach sports and activities available. On the highest peak of Santorini is the monastery of the prophet Elijah, Prophytos Ilias, where a huge feast is held annually on July 20. Why choose Santorini? Sailing excursions to the volcano island with its semi-active crater. Sunset sailing excursions around the island to see the caldera face from the sea. Scuba and beach sports in Perissa. Romantic meals in the charming village of Oya watching the sunset. The Naotical Museum in Oya. A visit to the Minin village of Akrateria, preserved Pompey style. The new museum of Fira exhibits frescoes from Akrateria and the first golden find in Cyclades. The old historical museum in Fira with finds from Santorini in the Greek Hellenic period. Bouterous winemakers in Megalohori for wine tasting and a multimedia history of the island. Santorini is one of Patricia Schultz's 1000 places to see before you die. Fairy trips take you to the other Cyclades islands, including Niconos and Delos, also among Schultz's 1000 places that must be seen.