Santorini farming is unlike farming almost anywhere else. The island has little rain, strong winds and ash-based soil, and many crops are grown without irrigation, relying on the morning mist that rolls in from the sea. The tour listing uses a word for this, anhydrous, to describe farming without water, and a family farm is a very good place to see what it means in practice. This experience lasts about four and a half hours and combines a farm visit with local food and wine and a cooking class, led by a local family. It is rated five stars from well over a hundred travellers, which puts it among the best of the island's food experiences, and it is also among the more affordable, which makes it popular with families and with travellers who want something local and unfussy rather than a polished restaurant class. You see the plants that make up Santorini's table, such as the island's small tomatoes, capers, aubergines and fava, then cook with them and sit down to eat what you have prepared with local wine. The setting is a working farm rather than a purpose-built classroom, so expect a warm, informal welcome, a bit of dust and a lot of conversation about family recipes. For travellers who have seen the caldera and the sunset and want to understand how the people of the island eat, it is an excellent half-day.
What you will learn
On the farm, the hosts explain how the island's vines, tomatoes and other crops are grown in a landscape that looks too dry to farm. Santorini cherry tomatoes are small and intensely sweet; the island's capers, white aubergines and yellow split peas are all local specialities, and fava, a purée of the split peas, is the island's most characteristic dish. In the cooking class you turn some of those into a meal, with tips you can reuse at home.
Who it suits
Families with children are a natural fit, because there is a lot to look at and touch, and the class is relaxed. Couples and food lovers who want a more rustic alternative to a restaurant or a studio class will also enjoy it. Compare it with the cooking class in Megalochori, which takes place on a restaurant terrace with a chef, and with the winery tours, which are more about the vine than the plate. This one is the most hands-on and the most family-friendly.
Practical notes
Dress for a farm, with comfortable closed shoes, a hat and sunscreen. Because this is a working farm with a small number of guests, places on summer dates can fill early, so reserve ahead. Let the organiser know about any allergies or dietary needs when you book. Check your pickup or meeting details on the voucher, as the farm is outside the main tourist areas, and plan the rest of the day lightly, because after four and a half hours of cooking and eating, most people want a swim and a rest.
Bring a reusable water bottle, and a bag for any produce or products you may be offered, and be ready to chat: much of the pleasure of a family farm is the conversation, and hosts on small farms are usually delighted to answer questions about island life, the seasons and how the cooking of the island has changed. It is a good tour for travellers who have already seen the sights and want to understand the people.
What to expect
The experience
A guided visit to a working family farm with local food and wine and a cooking class, lasting about four and a half hours.
Best time
A morning or early-afternoon start, and book early for summer dates.
How long
About four and a half hours.
Tips
Wear closed shoes and sun protection, mention dietary needs when you book, and plan a light rest of the day.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families and food lovers who want a down-to-earth look at how Santorini grows and cooks its food.
- Families
- One of the best food experiences for children, because the farm and the cooking keep everyone busy.
- Couples
- A relaxed, informal alternative to a restaurant dinner.
- Pair with
- A winery visit, Pyrgos village or a swim at Perissa.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
How long does the farm tour last?+
About four and a half hours.
What does it include?+
A farm visit, local food and wine tasting and a cooking class.
Is it suitable for children?+
Yes, it is a popular family activity, although you should confirm age details when you book.
What does anhydrous mean here?+
Farming without irrigation, which is how many of the island's vines and crops are grown.
What should I wear?+
Comfortable closed shoes, sun protection and clothes you do not mind getting dusty.
