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SANTORINI

Oia, Firostefani, Emporio, Pyrgos, Red Beach, Kamari

CROATIA

AMSTERDAM

SANTORINI

MILOS

CRETE

Experience the magic of colour and light, and perhaps the world’s best sunsets.

Crescent-shaped Santorini (or Thíra), the precious gem of the Aegean, is actually a group of islands consisting of Thíra, Thirassiá, Asproníssi, Palea and Nea Kaméni in the southernmost part of Cyclades. The Cyclades island group is everyone’s Greek island ideal, with their dazzling white houses, twisting cobbled alleyways, blue-domed churches, hilltop windmills and stunning beaches.

Our adventure takes us first to Firá, the picturesque capital of the island; perched high up on the edge of the Caldera. Firá, together with Oia, Imerovígli and Firostefáni located high above on a cliff, make up the so-called “Caldera’s eyebrow”, the balcony of Santorini, and offers an amazing view of the volcano. Our time together will be spent exploring these magical islands by both land and sea. From the clifftop villages of Caldera to the smaller villages of Akrotíri and Méssa Vounó, with their famous archaeological sites. Our adventure will take us to a half dozen or more charming and photographic villages sprinkled throughout the island. Experiencing Santorini would not be the same without a visit the opposite side of the island. Enjoy Santorini’s seaside treasures and deep blue waters and beaches with white, red or black sand or volcanic pebbles, spectacular rock formations and impressive lunar landscapes. A visit to Santorini is the ultimate gastronomic experience, as the island is a true culinary paradise!

MILOS (ADD-ON) The Cycladic island of Milos is located between the islands on Sifnos and Santorini and is one of the five largest islands of Greece. Volcanic Milos arches around a central caldera and is ringed with dramatic coastal landscapes of colorful and surreal rock formations. The island’s most celebrated export, the iconic Venus de Milo, is far away in the Louvre, but dozens of beaches (the most of any Cycladic island) and a series of picturesque villages contribute to its current, compelling, attractions. It is known for its history, geology, hot springs, mineral mines and wild goats! Overall, Milos is truly an unforgettable experience for those seeking a type of raw experience of Greece – or of an original, unaltered Greece. There is so much to discover about this island, between its history, its breathtaking geological formations, its beautiful beaches, and its friendly people. Milos is a secret getaway for those seeking an authentic Greek island experience.

This adventure is designed not only to guide you to the most photogenic locations carefully planned for the best light, but to aid you in mentally visualizing a scene before capturing the decisive moment. Our aim is to raise your awareness and spark your creativity so that you not only go home with images to be proud of, but use your new found skills to improve and expand your photographic technique in general. Apart from the technical aspect of learning your camera settings and capabilities, you will learn how to turn an ordinary image into an extraordinary image by using your own creativity.

In addition, you will become knowledgeable on how to survey the landscape, utilize and approach your environment, photograph people indigenous to the region and the cultural considerations and challenges of photographing in a foreign country. Our week together will include individual and group discussions, inspiring ideas and great fun. We cannot think of a better location to express your creativity than the breathtaking and colorful island of Santorini.

Our adventure takes us first to Firá, the picturesque capital of the island; perched high up on the edge of the Caldera. Firá, together with Oia, Imerovígli and Firostefáni located high above on a cliff, make up the so-called “Caldera’s eyebrow”, the balcony of Santorini, and offers an amazing view of the volcano. Our time together will be spent exploring these magical islands by both land and sea. From the clifftop villages of Caldera to the smaller villages of Akrotíri and Méssa Vounó, with their famous archaeological sites. Our adventure will take us to a half dozen or more charming and photographic villages sprinkled throughout the island. Experiencing Santorini would not be the same without a visit the opposite side of the island. Enjoy Santorini’s seaside treasures and deep blue waters and beaches with white, red or black sand or volcanic pebbles, spectacular rock formations and impressive lunar landscapes. A visit to Santorini is the ultimate gastronomic experience, as the island is a true culinary paradise!

MILOS (ADD-ON) The Cycladic island of Milos is located between the islands on Sifnos and Santorini and is one of the five largest islands of Greece. Volcanic Milos arches around a central caldera and is ringed with dramatic coastal landscapes of colorful and surreal rock formations. The island’s most celebrated export, the iconic Venus de Milo, is far away in the Louvre, but dozens of beaches (the most of any Cycladic island) and a series of picturesque villages contribute to its current, compelling, attractions. It is known for its history, geology, hot springs, mineral mines and wild goats! Overall, Milos is truly an unforgettable experience for those seeking a type of raw experience of Greece – or of an original, unaltered Greece. There is so much to discover about this island, between its history, its breathtaking geological formations, its beautiful beaches, and its friendly people. Milos is a secret getaway for those seeking an authentic Greek island experience.

This adventure is designed not only to guide you to the most photogenic locations carefully planned for the best light, but to aid you in mentally visualizing a scene before capturing the decisive moment. Our aim is to raise your awareness and spark your creativity so that you not only go home with images to be proud of, but use your new found skills to improve and expand your photographic technique in general. Apart from the technical aspect of learning your camera settings and capabilities, you will learn how to turn an ordinary image into an extraordinary image by using your own creativity.

In addition, you will become knowledgeable on how to survey the landscape, utilize and approach your environment, photograph people indigenous to the region and the cultural considerations and challenges of photographing in a foreign country. Our week together will include individual and group discussions, inspiring ideas and great fun. We cannot think of a better location to express your creativity than the breathtaking and colorful island of Santorini.

Group Size

4-8 Guests

Experience | Difficulty

  • Beginner, amateur, enthusiast and semi-pro photographers
  • DSLR, mirrorless, compact or iPhone cameras
  • Moderate schedule
  • Travel by car or minibus
  • Considerable elevation changes and lots of walking
  • (non-photographers also welcome)

Weather | Sun

May | June – Temps 83/67 F  28/19 C  Sunrise 6:05 | Sunset 8:30 (20:30)

Includes

  • 6 Days
  • Travel, landscape, seascape, architecture, and people photography
  • Professional photographer | guide
  • Photo walks & discussions
  • Small group size (4-8 guests)
  • 4 or 5-star hotels
  • Breakfasts
  • 2 Dinners
  • Local transportationLocal transportation
  • Ferry to Milos (w/extension)

Travel Information

Arrival & Departure Airport: Santorini (Thira), (JTR) – Transfer time to hotel 30min
Arrival & Departure Airport: Milos Island National Airport (MLO) – Transfer time to hotel 45min
Note: If you are combining Milos with Santorini, we will travel from Santorini to Milos by ferry.
Our adventure begins at 11 AM on the first day and ends at noon on the last day.
Travel Visa: A visa may be required depending on your nationality. Go to Visa Map to find out.

Accommodations

Santorini – Lilium Villas, Iliovasilema Suites Hotel or similar
Milos – Villa Gallis, Niriedes Hotel or similar

Excursions

Sailing Catamaran Tour in The Caldera (optional – fee applies)

Helpful Links

> The Best Way to Experience the Greek Islands – by Ian Robert Knight

Santorini


Santorini & Milos Prices & Dates

Santorini, Milos & Crete Prices & Dates


Photographer Leader

Photographer Leader

Laurie Cohen

Santorini
May 18-23, 2024
May 17-22, 2025

Santorini + Milos
May 18-26, 2024
May 17-25, 2025

Santorini, Milos + Crete
May 17 – June 1, 2025

*All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in upscale boutique hotels in the 4 and 5-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels that offer cultural, historic, and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. In Cuba, we stay in upscale family-owned Casas (bread & breakfasts). On all of our tours, breakfast is almost always included, but not guaranteed. Meal categories listed include (B) for breakfast, (L) for lunch, and (D) for dinner.

UPCOMING WORKSHOPS

SANTORINI 6 DAYS

Day 1 | Imerovigli - Fira

We meet at our stunning 4-Star boutique hotel in Fira. During lunch, we will have informal discussions on what our guests are trying to achieve in their photography, subject matters, styles and techniques. In the afternoon we will discuss PWA’s “10 Guiding Principles of Photography” and our “THE ART OF SEEING” photographic technique.

From here we set out for an amazing day of photography throughout the islands largest and most popular villages of Imerovigli and Fira. In the evening we celebrate with our “Welcome Dinner” at one of our favorite Santorini restaurants. (D)

Day 2 | Firostefani - Ammoudi - Oia

After breakfast we set out for Firostefani, which lies to the north of Fira. The privacy and quaintness of Firostefani is what separates it from its considerably larger neighbor. Without a doubt, the views from this part of Santorini are spectacular, offering another perspective of Santorini volcano. One can enjoy the magnificent sight of Fira itself and the breathtaking sunset in the evening. The village is quite picturesque with vividly colored houses and has many restaurants and cafes. Between the villages of Firostefani and Imerovigli lies the Agios Nikolas Monastery.

In the late afternoon we drive to the magical village of Oia, pronounced “ee-a”. Oia is the most famous of all villages of Santorini. It is known throughout the world for its quiet life and fantastic sunset, and is certainly the most beautiful and picturesque village of Santorini. The village is situated on top of an impressive cliff and offers spectacular views. It is a traditional village with charming houses in narrow streets, blue domed churches, and sun-bathed verandas. The volcano from here is much less imposing but you can still get some gorgeous views. Oia has a small port, Ammoudi, which can be reached by a set of 300 steps leading down. Wonderful photo opportunities await you from the edges of Ammoudi and is well worth the hike.

As the sun begins to set we will shoot the sunset from Oia. Santorini is known for its breathtaking sunsets and twilight cobalt blue skies, and no other village delivers this like Oia. Be sure to bring your tripod. (B)

Day 3 | Mesaria - Pyrgos - Emporio

In the early morning we set out for the village of Mesaria, a small quaint village situated just 4km southeast of Fira, around a vast area of vineyards at the centre of Santorini. A stroll around the village reveals magnificent neoclassical buildings and restored mansions.

Next, we move on to Pyrgos Kallistis, which is located on a fabulous spot on top of a hill and displays incredible panoramic views of the island. Pyrgos used to be the capital of the island until the early 1800s. The village consists of traditional houses built around a Venetian castle, and the small streets that follow the natural flow of the surrounding landscape. The houses are the perfect example of Cycladic design and are in superb condition. The Venetian castle is one of the five on the island of Santorini and dates back to the 13th century. The fortified settlement is amphitheatrically built on the hill and offers superb views of both sides of the island. The village has many churches. The most famous church of Santorini is also found just 4 km from Pyrgos, the Monastery of Prophet Elias, which is built at the highest spot of the homonymous mountain.

Emporio is the largest settlement of Santorini located on the foothills of Mount Prophet Elias. The village itself has a strong medieval character and most of the houses have been well-preserved. At the entrance of the village stand two lovely, blue domed Cycladic churches with an impressive bell tower that dominates Emporio. Half way up the village is a 15th century fortress which looks as though it will slide down the hill at any moment. To the east of the town you will see the market and some nice hotels leading down to the well-known Perissa beach. Upon our return to our hotel, we review and discuss our photos to date. (B)

Day 4 | Sailing - Akrotiri Village - Red Beach

After breakfast we depart for the southeastern side of the island where we have the option of taking a Sailing Catamaran Tour in The Caldera (5 Hours). Depart from Vlihada Marina sailing past the Ancient City of Akrotiri to the Red and White Beaches. Sail past the Indian Head Mountain and Venetian Lighthouse into the picturesque Caldera. You will visit private bays for swimming and snorkelling. After the Hot Springs, a delicious bbq lunch is prepared in a beautiful secluded bay. After lunch, you then sail past the Volcanic Islands and Aspronisi to Vlihada Marina.

After our sail, we visit Akrotiri, located next to the famous Red Beach. Akrotiri was originally a Minoan settlement and today is one of the most important archeological site of Santorini. The prehistoric town was destroyed due to a massive volcanic eruption around 1600 BC. Nowadays, the picturesque streets, the two-story buildings, the lovely frescoes and plenty of tools witness the way of life in the prehistoric times. Some splendid houses are dotted around the village as well as a traditional windmill. Akrotiri has plenty of churches to visit and one of the most beautiful is the church of Agios Nikolaos built right above the impressive red rocks, on the way to the Red Beach. The visit to the archeological site is quite impressive, and the short hike to Red Beach is worth the views and photographic opportunities. (B)

Day 5 | Kamari - Imerovigli - Oia

In the early morning we depart for Kamari Beach with its wide-arching strip of black sand beach dotted with striped umbrellas. Popular among backpackers and a younger crowd, it’s easy to see why Kamari Beach is resort central on Santorini. Kamari is best known for its English-style breakfast cafes and pubs, along with bobbing fishing boats and the easily accessible volcanic-sand beach. Lunch in Kamari. We’ll spend the afternoon in Kamari. If you like, you can rent a sun chair and umbrella, or organize water sports like diving and snorkelling.

Excursion boats sail along the coast, past the rocky headland of Mesa Vouno that frames Kamari’s beach, across the water to the isle of Anafi. A trail leads to the ruins of Ancient Thira. Late afternoon review of our photos to date and discussions about post processing. Depending on weather and timing we will attempt to shoot one last sunset in Imerovigli or Oia. In the evening we enjoy our wonderful “Farewell Dinner” with great fun and laughter as we discuss all the highlights of our adventure. (B) (D)

Day 6 | Imerovigli

On our final day we gather for a group discussion, review our past weeks photos, trade contact information and bid each other farewell. We urge you to extend your stay in Santorini or continue on with us to the island of Milos and make good use of everything you will learn on our photo adventure. (B)

Day 1 | Santorini - Apollonia - Klima

We depart Santorini on an early morning ferry for the island of Milos. You can almost see Milos from the hilltops of Santorini so it’s not very far. However, it couldn’t be more different with its laid back atmosphere and moon-like landscape. We’ll check in to our beautiful boutique hotel and during lunch have informal discussions on what our guests are trying to achieve in their photography, subject matters, styles and techniques. In the afternoon we will discuss PWA’s “10 Guiding Principles of Photography” and our “THE ART OF SEEING” photographic technique. From here we set out for an amazing day of photography throughout this amazing and seemingly untouched island.

We’ll visit the fishing village of Klima, which was the port of the ancient city of Milos. This lovely port is lined with houses that have boat garages on the ground floor. These houses are called syrmata and their doors and window shutters are painted in different colors, like blue, red and yellow.

In the evening we celebrate with our “Welcome Dinner” at one of our favorite Milos restaurants. (D)

Day 2 | Papafragas - Filakopi

After breakfast we set out for the Cave of Papafragas. This complex of sea caves was formed by volcanic activity and is divided by a small ravine. Many people actually snorkel in the turquoise waters at the bottom of the ravine and explore the caves.

In the afternoon we visit the archaeological site of Filakopi. Ancient Filakopi developed as a settlement from the Neolithic Period (9,000 to 4,000 BC) until about 1,000 BC. British archaeologists excavated the site during the 1890s and actually discovered tools from obsidian, which is a volcanic glass similar to granite. These tools and other findings are today hosted in the Archaeological Museum of Milos in Plaka. During the afternoon we will explore several small picturesque villages.

In the evening we focus on a sunset photography at one of Milos’s 12 amazing beaches. (B)

Day 3 | Sarakiniko - Plaka - Klima - Catacombs

On day three we set out for Sarakiniko, along the northern side of Milos island. This is probably the most photographed spot of Milos. This fantastic place with the pure white stone sculpted by volcanic eruptions looks like we’ve landed on the moon. Beneath the white rocks are impressive sea caves. Sarakiniko is so beautiful that we will probably return later in the day to photograph when the light changes.

We will continue the beautiful road and arrive in Plaka, the capital town of Milos. Walking through the village, we will discover a traditional place of Cycladic architecture, stunning views to the Aegean Sea and pastries with delicious homemade sweets. After Plaka, we head to the early Christian catacombs, just a couple of km away, and the ancient city of Klima.

In the evening we enjoy our wonderful “Farewell Dinner” with great fun and laughter as we discuss all the highlights of our adventure. (B) (D)

Day 4 | Agia Kyriaki

On our final day we set out at sunrise to photograph Agia Kyriaki Beach, or swim in the crystal waters before we return to our hotel for breakfast. There we will gather for a group discussion, review our past weeks photos, trade contact information and bid each other farewell. You can either take the ferry back to Santorini for your return flight, or fly back directly from Milos.

We urge you to extend your stay in Milos or continue on with us to the Greek Island of Crete and make good use of everything you will learn on our photo adventure. (B)

(B) Breakfast, (L) Lunch, (D) Dinner, (E) Excursion

 

May all who come as guests... leave as friends®

 

OPTIONS AND BENEFITS

Pricing

All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in boutique hotels in the 4-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels which offer cultural, historic and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. Breakfast is included only if included in our room rates.

Private Guided Adventures

We offer amazing private guided photo adventures, cultural tours and vacations for individuals, couples, families and groups. We can customize any of our published adventures, as well as others, to meet your individual needs, schedule, budget and interests. This may include the finest 5-star accommodations, business-class travel, and private guides and fixers who are able to make the impossible possible. If you are not interested in a photo-centric vacation, but you love our approach to private travel, we will be happy to design and deliver an amazing adventure focused on travel, culture and cuisine. Click here to request a quote. Feel free to call us at 1-888-834-0288 or contact us for more information.

Travel Insurance

We offer travel insurance through the internationally recognized Travelex Travel Insurance Company, as well as evacuation and medical transportation insurance through MedJet, one of the best in the industry.

The cost for travel insurance can be as low as 4% of the total trip cost, depending upon age and other factors. Knowing you have trip cancellation coverage can make a big difference should you have to cancel for some unforeseen reason. Travelex Insurance Services is a BBB Accredited business with an A+ rating. Click here to learn more about why you should consider travel insurance.

Rewards Program

Start earning points today and SAVE $200 - $900 off future trips!
Simply register for one of our amazing photo adventures and begin earning points today!

How The Program Works
For every adventure reservation you make with Photo Workshop Adventures, you earn valuable points which you can redeem on your next trip. This is a great way to save up to 8% off future trips. Our Rewards Program is designed with three tiers: Orange, Gold and VIP Members. Points may be applied towards balance payments on your next trip, or you may choose to accumulate points for a free trip in the future.

ORANGE REWARDS
All guests begin with our Orange Rewards Program (Level 1), which earns 4 points for every dollar you spend. You begin earning points immediately after your first trip. A $5,900 spend earns 23,600 points with a value of $236 USD.

GOLD REWARDS
With our Gold Rewards Program (Level 2), you earn 6 points for every dollar you spend. Orange Members who reach 120,000 accumulated lifetime* points (approx. 4-6 trips), automatically move up to Gold Rewards. A $5,900 spend earns 35,400 points with a value of $354 USD.

Additional Gold Benefits:

  • Earn up to double points during promotional events
  • Advance notifications for upcoming adventures and special offers

VIP REWARDS
With our VIP Rewards Program (Level 3), you earn 8 points for every dollar you spend. Gold Members who reach 350,000 accumulated lifetime* points (approx. 8-12 trips) move up to VIP Rewards. A $5,900 spend earns 47,200 points with a value of $472 USD, (8+/-% discount).

Additional VIP Benefits:

  • Earn up to double points during promotional events
  • Advance notifications for upcoming adventures and special offers
  • Ability to Gift or Transfer points to others
  • Receive complimentary airport transfers at the destination location*

Redeeming Your Points
Redeeming your points couldn’t be easier. You can always log in to your account to check your points balance. When you are ready to book your next trip, register and pay your deposit. When you go to pay your balance you will be given the option to apply your points and receive a discount.

THINK ORANGE Magazine

Subscribe to our Think Orange Magazine and eNews. THINK ORANGE is a wonderful mix of stories and tips related to travel, photography, adventure, culture, art, technology, cuisine, lifestyle, people and more. Our objective is to immerse you in a world you may only fantasize about. Raise your awareness and inspire your creativity. Perhaps even help make you a better photographer. We deliver similar experiential experiences that our guests enjoy on our photo adventures. Like all of our adventures, our blog is “photo-centric”, while also allowing you to experience all the nuances and cultural aspects of travel and adventure. Welcome to our world. We hope you enjoy. Our eNews is a great way to receive information about upcoming photo adventures, exciting new destinations, photography tips, special offers and more. Subscribe today!

Gift Cards

Give someone you know a Gift Card, good toward any of our Photo  Adventures, Photo Tours, Private Guided Tours, Online Courses, Prints or Merchandize. Our beautifully personalized eGift Cards and Certificates are delivered to you electronically. They are fully transferable and have a 2 year expiration date. They are available in any amount from $100 to $5000. It makes a great gift for anyone who loves photography, travel or adventure. Order now, or email for more information.

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