The beautiful Greek island that is a 'secret Santorini' without the crowds

The beautiful island, formed by volcanic activity like its larger neighbour, is only 3.5 square miles and has all that Santorini offers, but without the crowds. 

According to a 2021 census, there are only 250 permanent inhabitants on the island of Therasia. It is the second biggest island in the group of Santorini, behind Thira, the island most known in the Greek Cyclades. The two were separated by the Thera eruption in around 1600 BC and sit just one nautical mile apart. 

Home to only a handful of tavernas and shops and with only a few rooms available to rent, most tourists only visit for a few hours, arriving by boat from Thira in just ten minutes. Stars including Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie have stayed there, highlighting just how perfect a destination it is to escape the crowds.

It provides an insight into what the main island was like before becoming so overwhelmed by tourists. It shares many similarities, including the distinct terrain, the architectural design of houses and churches, the customs and traditions and, of course, the spectacular views. Both islands also produce similar products, including wine, small tomatoes and wild capers. 

The capital, Manolas, is built on the highest point of the caldera - a depression created after a volcano partially collapses - is home to restricted accommodation and most other facilities. The settlement of Potamos is built in a gorge, and home to iconic whitewashed houses with beautifully decorated gardens. 

Agrilia and Kera are two deserted settlements, the former home to traditional cave houses, while the latter offers a panoramic view of the volcanic islands. Unlike on Thira, these cave homes, which were abandoned after a massive earthquake, have not been repurposed into hotels. 

To reach the quaint old port of Korfos, which can also be accessed from the sea when arriving by boat from Athinios on Thira, one must descend 270 paved steps on foot, or by mule. Here, you can taste fresh fish and other local dishes. 

The beaches on Therasia are unspoilt, offering crystal-clear water and volcanic pebbles and sand. The most popular of which is the beach of Agia Irini in Riva port, a long black sand beach with deep waters. 

This is in striking contrast to Thira’s souvenir stores, boutique hotels and restaurants. Thira has been increasingly associated with overtourism, high traffic issues and inquiries about possible negative environmental impacts are emerging. 

For an alternative to Oia’s crowded sunset spots, Thirasia’s Prophet Elias chapel - one of the 21 churches and chapels on the island - high on the mountain offers spectacular views over the volcanic caldera to the villages of Oia and Imerovigli. The likelihood is that you will be joined by goats and seagulls as opposed to British tourists.