Imerovigli & Skaros Rock
Ημεροβίγλι / Σκάρος
A clifftop village at the highest point of the caldera, the 'balcony' of luxury cave hotels with infinity pools. The medieval castle ruins and small chapel on Skaros Rock make a quiet place to watch the sunset.
Imerovigli lies 2 km north of Fira, perched at the highest point of the caldera cliffs at an elevation of about 300 meters. Its name means 'daytime lookout', as medieval villagers once watched for pirate ships from here. It offers the most expansive caldera views on the island, with the white cliffs of Oia, Fira, and Akrotiri to the south all in sight. The cliffside is covered with boutique cave hotels, many with infinity pools. It is a top choice for honeymooners and among the most expensive places to stay on the island, yet it is quieter than Fira and has fewer visitors than Oia. In front of the village, Skaros Rock is a volcanic rock formation jutting out over the sea. In the 13th century, the Venetians built a castle on its summit. It was once the most important of the island's five castles, but after 1650 earthquakes gradually destroyed it, and only ruins remain today. From the Church of Agios Georgios in the village, follow the stone steps downhill and then climb the rock for about 20 to 30 minutes. On the back of the rock is the small white Theoskepasti chapel. The summit facing the caldera is one of the quietest places to watch the sunset. There are no railings, the wind is strong, so take care and wear non-slip shoes. The caldera cliff trail between Fira and Oia passes through Imerovigli, and the walk from Fira takes about 40 minutes. It is the highlight of the hike. The village has a few cliffside restaurants and a small supermarket, and the small square in front of the church is pleasant in the evening. Getting there: buses heading from Fira toward Oia stop in Imerovigli (about 10 minutes). You can also walk along the caldera cliff path from Fira. The coordinates above refer to the centre of the village.
Opening hours
Open all day
Nearby sights
- Fira to Oia Hiking Trail
- Fira Old Port & Cable Car
- Fira
- Museum of Prehistoric Thera
- Nea Kameni Volcano Boat Trip
- Santo Wines Winery
- Oia
- Amoudi Bay