How to get by car to Mount Profitis Ilias, the highest road of Santorini?
Mount Profitis Ilias is a mountain peak at an elevation of 567m (1,860ft) above sea level, located on the coast of Santorini, a Greek island. If you're afraid of heights, just close your eyes during the drive up (as long as you're not driving).
Where is Mount Profitis Ilias?
The mountain is located between Pyrgos and Kamari, on the southeastern coast of Santorini. It’s the highest spot of the island.
What’s at the summit of Mount Profitis Ilias?
On the top of this mountain, there is a monastery with the same name founded in 1711 and some military facilities.
Why is the Monastery of Prophet Elias famous?
The Monastery of Prophet Elias, built in 1711, is the most significant religious site on Santorini and an impressive example of Cycladic architecture. Perched like a fortress, it once served as a school, teaching Greek language and literature, and held strong economic influence through a thriving trade network across the Aegean and Mediterranean with its own ship. The katholikon, dedicated to Prophet Elias, showcases a remarkable chancel screen, beautiful icons, and numerous holy relics. Visitors can also see the attached chapels, including Hypapante, Aghias Triada, Aghios Ioannis, and Aghii Konstantinos and Eleni, as well as a museum featuring traditional tools, furniture, chalices, crosses, and ecclesiastical artifacts. Although the monastery itself is closed to the public, its striking bell tower and surrounding chapels remain accessible. A few monks still live here, continuing traditions such as wine-making and producing local goods, which are available for purchase. It was badly damaged by the earthquake in 1956. On the evening of Holy Saturday, don’t miss the chance to go up to the monastery: celebrations are traditional, and electricity is not being used. The memory of Prophet Elias is celebrated on July 20.
Is the road to Mount Profitis Ilias paved?
The road to the summit is paved but extremely winding and narrow, barely wide enough for one car. Not advised to anyone who gets car sick. It’s pretty busy in summers. It is not for the faint of heart: there are lots of big tourist buses coming and going, and it can get very hard when they're in the opposite direction. On a windy day, it can be a bit scary.
How long is the road to Mount Profitis Ilias?
The drive is steep. Starting from Pyrgos Kallistis, the ascent is 4.0 km long. Over this distance, the elevation gain is 261 meters. The average gradient is 6.52%.
Is Mount Profitis Ilias worth the drive?
This mountain is a must-see, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of Santorini from its highest point. As you make your way up, the island unfolds beneath you in a sweeping panorama, and from the top, the scenery is nothing short of spectacular — a perfect showcase of just how unique Santorini truly is. To fully enjoy the experience without the crowds, aim to visit early in the morning before the tour buses roll in.