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Viewpoint · Fira, Egeu Meridional
Imerovigli e rocha de Skaros
Village at the highest point of the caldera rim, facing the volcano, with the Skaros rock and the ruins of the medieval castle; starting point for the trail to Oia.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Imerovigli e rocha de Skaros
Imerovigli is about 2 km north of Fira, on the highest stretch of the caldera rim, more than 300 meters above the sea. The name comes from watch: from there any boat could be seen arriving. The village is a cluster of paved narrow streets, Cycladic churches and hotels carved into the slope, with open views to Nea Kameni and the sunset.
In front of the village juts the Skaros rock, a promontory where the island's main medieval castle stood, built in 1207 by the Venetians. The elite of Santorini lived there until the 18th century, when eruptions and tremors forced residents to move to Fira and Imerovigli; today only a few ruins remain. A trail with steps leads up to the rock in about 20 minutes and continues to the chapel of Panagia Theoskepasti, clinging to the cliff.
Imerovigli is also the midpoint of the caldera trail that links Fira to Oia over roughly 10 km. The route goes through Firostefani, continues through Imerovigli and then runs along the ridge with few houses until it descends into Oia. It takes 3 to 4 hours, with climbs and descents and almost no shade.
Firostefani, between Fira and Imerovigli, is an extension of the capital with the church of Agios Gerasimos and one of the most photographed spots on the caldera. The three places are connected on foot by the rim promenade.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One hour for the village and the viewpoint; another hour to go to and return from the Skaros rock. The complete trail to Oia takes 3 to 4 hours.
Best time
Early morning or late afternoon, when the heat eases. For the trail to Oia, set out in the morning in summer and bring water: there is no shade or sales points in the final half. The sunset in Imerovigli usually has fewer people than in Oia.
How to get there
On foot from Fira, along the caldera promenade, in about 30 minutes passing through Firostefani. KTEL buses on the Fira–Oia line stop on the road above the village. By car, there is parking at the entrance.
Tip
The climb to the Skaros rock has irregular steps and exposed sections; go with closed shoes and avoid times of strong wind. Those who do the trail to Oia can return by bus.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Imerovigli e rocha de Skaros
Is the hike from Fira to Oia difficult?
It's long—about 10 km—with up-and-down sections and no shade, but it doesn't require technical skills. It takes 3 to 4 hours. In summer, start early and bring water.
Can you climb the Skaros rock?
Yes—by a trail with steps from Imerovigli, in about 20 minutes. At the top are the ruins of the medieval castle; the chapel of Theoskepasti is lower down.
Is Imerovigli good to stay in?
If you want caldera views with less bustle than Fira and Oia, yes. Fira is a 30-minute walk away and has the buses to the rest of the island.