Santorini : Cooking Class & Easy Hike

If you’re craving a way to explore Santorini beyond the typical postcard vistas, this Cooking Class & Easy Hike might just be your ticket. Offered by TREKKING HELLAS, this tour promises a blend of outdoor adventure and culinary discovery, all wrapped up in four hours of genuine Greek hospitality. It’s a chance to get off the beaten path, enjoy breathtaking views, and learn how to whip up traditional dishes — all with a relaxed pace and a small group size.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience: first, the knowledgeable guides who make everything feel friendly and genuine, and second, the stunning scenery on the trail that offers some of the best views of the volcanic caldera and the island’s rustic charms. The only potential consideration is that the tour requires a bit of walking, so travelers should be comfortable with an easy hike and bringing along some essentials like water and sun protection.

This tour is ideal for curious travelers who want a more authentic taste of Santorini — combining nature, culture, and cuisine in one well-curated experience. If you love to learn as you go and enjoy a mix of activity and relaxation, this is a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experience: Combines hiking and cooking, providing a genuine taste of Greek life.
• Scenic Views: Trek along the south coast with excellent vistas of the caldera and old villas.
• Culinary Delight: Prepare and enjoy traditional Greek dishes with a family chef.
• Relaxing Beach Time: End with free time for swimming and sunbathing at a secluded beach.
• Convenient Logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off included, small group size for a personalized touch.
• Highly Rated: Consistently reviewed as fun, educational, and delicious, with a perfect 5-star rating.

A Deep Dive into the Santorini Hiking and Cooking Tour

Starting Out: A Seamless Pickup and Introduction to Santorini’s South Coast

The experience kicks off with a hotel pickup around 9:00 am, making it easy to settle in without fussing over logistics. TREKKING HELLAS ensures that transportation is smooth, and the small group size (up to 30 travelers) means you won’t feel lost in a crowd. The guides, often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, set the tone right away — sharing local insights and making everyone feel at ease.

The Guided Hike: Scenic, Relaxed, and Rich in Culture

The core of the experience is a guided trek along Santorini’s south coast, which we’d describe as a gentle walk rather than a strenuous hike. You’ll pass vineyards and old chapels, walking through areas that are less crowded than the typical tourist spots. The route concludes at Mesa Pigadia beach, a lesser-known spot that offers a quiet escape.

Travelers from reviews describe the hike as “easy” and “very enjoyable,” with plenty of cultural sights and scenic vistas along the way. One reviewer even called it “a very enjoyable and informative walk,” highlighting the balance of physical activity and learning about local agriculture and history. The walk is designed to be accessible for most, but bringing comfortable shoes and sun protection is wise.

The Reward: Cooking with a Local Family Chef

After the walk, the tour transitions seamlessly into an immersive cooking class led by a local, family-style chef. This part of the experience is often praised as “so much fun”, with visitors helping to prepare authentic Greek dishes like the famous tomato fritters, which many say they’ll try recreating at home.

The cooking session is described as “simple” and “delicious,” emphasizing an authentic, hands-on approach. As one reviewer put it, “We loved cooking with Sophia in the beachfront restaurant.” The atmosphere is relaxed, with fellow travelers sharing stories and tasting their homemade creations in a scenic setting that overlooks the water.

Post-Cooking: Sun, Sea, and Relaxation

Once the meal is ready, everyone sits down together to enjoy the homemade dishes, truly feeling like a part of a Greek family gathering. Afterward, there’s time to swim, snorkel, and sunbathe at Mesa Pigadia beach, making this tour a perfect blend of activity and leisure. Several reviews highlight how refreshing and “just perfect” the swimming was after the hike and cooking.

Authenticity, Value, and Overall Experience

The reviews echo a common sentiment: this tour offers authenticity that’s hard to find in standard tourist excursions. Travelers appreciate the balance between activity and relaxation, the delicious food, and the knowledgeable guides who make everything approachable. For $178.62, you get a comprehensive half-day that combines nature, cultural insight, and culinary skills — a great deal for those who value authentic experiences.

The small group size, included hotel pickup, and the opportunity to meet local chefs elevate this tour beyond just a walk and a cooking class. It’s an opportunity to understand Santorini’s countryside, cuisine, and community in a way that few other tours offer.

Who Would Love This?

Travelers who enjoy outdoor activities but also want to learn local cooking techniques will find this tour ideal. It’s especially suited to food lovers, curious explorers, and those who prefer a more intimate, relaxed experience over large, crowd-filled excursions. If you’re after stunning views, cultural authenticity, and delicious food in a manageable timeframe, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Practical Details for Planning Your Day

• The tour lasts around 4 hours and starts at 9:00 am.
• Pickup and drop-off are included, making logistics easy.
• The cost is $178.62 per person, which reflects the comprehensive nature of the experience.
• Group size is capped at 30, ensuring personalized attention.
• Remember to bring hiking shoes, a sun hat, sunscreen, water, and possibly a dry change of clothes if you plan to swim.
• The experience is weather-dependent, with cancellations possible if conditions are poor, but a full refund or alternative date is offered.

Conclusions

This Santorini Cooking Class & Easy Hike offers a fantastic way to combine the island’s natural beauty with its culinary traditions. The guided hike along the south coast presents a quiet, scenic route away from the crowds, with ample opportunities for photos and cultural insights. The subsequent cooking class, led by a personable local chef, transforms fresh ingredients into authentic Greek dishes that you can truly call your own.

For travelers seeking more than just postcard views, this tour provides a meaningful connection to local life through food, scenery, and stories. The small-group format and expert guides ensure a personalized and relaxed experience that feels both educational and fun.

If you’re visiting Santorini and want a day that mixes gentle exercise, stunning scenery, and delicious food all in one package, this is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for those who appreciate authenticity, enjoy meeting new people, and want to take home more than just photos — a taste of Greece that stays with you.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the tour, making logistics straightforward and hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 4 hours, from pickup to drop-off.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates up to 30 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Do I need to bring my own hiking shoes or sun protection?
While hiking shoes are not included, it’s recommended to bring comfortable shoes suitable for walking, along with a sun hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water.

Can I swim at the beach after the tour?
Absolutely. The tour includes free time for swimming and sunbathing at Mesa Pigadia beach, so bring your swimsuit.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The hike is described as easy and moderate, but it involves walking on uneven terrain. It’s best suited for those comfortable with light activity.

Whether you’re a foodie, a nature lover, or someone eager to experience a different side of Santorini, this tour offers a memorable, authentic day out — blending adventure and culinary delight in true Greek style.