Santorini Experience 2026 – Where the Race Begins Inside A Volcano

Few sporting events in the world begin quite literally from a volcano. Santorini Experience does exactly that for the 12th year. From October 16–18, 2026, athletes from around the globe will swim through the deep waters of the Caldera and run across Santorini’s volcanic slopes, in one of the world's most iconic travel destinations.

Set against a landscape where volcanic terrain meets history and the island’s singular natural identity, the Caldera, the Volcano, Ancient Thera, and the island’s coastal settlements create an extraordinary backdrop that blends sport, culture, and authentic local experiences. Santorini’s past remains ever-present, coexisting with the physical challenges of the routes and races, transforming the island once again into a vibrant meeting point of people, stories, and athletic expression.

On Saturday, October 17, 2026, participants will take part in the event’s signature 2.4km (1.5-miles) Open Water Swimming Race. Athletes will start from the Volcano and finish at the Old Port of Fira, crossing the distinctive deep waters of Santorini’s Caldera.

Participant safety is fully ensured by the Santorini Boatmen Association, which will transport swimmers to the starting point. Lifeguard boats will accompany the race, while the use of a safety flotation buoy will be mandatory for all participants.

In addition, the organization will provide complimentary access to the cable car (both ascent and descent) upon presentation of the race registration confirmation.

Leading the running program is the demanding 15K Trail Run, taking place on Sunday, October 18, 2026.

The race will start from the Desalination Plant in Oia, traversing some of the island’s most dramatic volcanic slopes. Santorini’s trail route stands out for its extraordinary volcanic terrain, narrow Caldera pathways, constantly changing surfaces, and impressive elevation gains.

The combination of volcanic rock, traditional cobblestone paths, and panoramic passages overlooking the Aegean Sea creates a challenging yet truly exceptional trail running experience rarely found anywhere else in the world.

For the running races taking place on Sunday, October 18, 2026, SIXT, a member of the MOTODYNAMICS Group, joins the event as Premium Mobility Partner.

The leading mobility brand actively supports Santorini Experience and assumes exclusive naming rights for the demanding 10K Trail Run. Under the premium signature of SIXT, experienced runners will have the opportunity to test their limits on a breathtaking and adrenaline-filled route, enjoying spectacular views along the edge of the Caldera, with both start and finish located at the Desalination Plant in Oia.

At the same time, Miele joins the event as Silver Sponsor, supporting the most accessible and popular race of the weekend, the 5K Trail Run “Aristides Alafouzos”.

Known worldwide for its commitment to premium quality, Miele enhances the race dedicated to the memory of Aristides Alafouzos, which has been designed for both running and dynamic walking participants.

This partnership highlights the event’s commitment to offering a high-end sporting experience accessible to people of all fitness levels.

For the first time in the event’s history, the race program introduces a seaside route showcasing one of Santorini’s most authentic sides, where natural beauty is closely intertwined with historical heritage.

Located in Kamari, the course unfolds between sea and mountain, at the foot of Ancient Thera, one of the island’s most significant archaeological landmarks.

The route promises a unique participation experience, featuring surprises and memorable moments along the way, within an environment of exceptional natural and cultural significance.

Santorini Experience returns stronger than ever following a series of prestigious awards that further confirm its international reach and impact.

The 2025 edition of Santorini Experience emerged as one of the most awarded events of the year, demonstrating its strategic excellence.

The event received 7 Gold Awards and 3 Silver Awards.

• Individual Sports 
• Best Digital Marketing Execution Strategy 
• Best Public Event for Sports Content 
• Best Hybrid Sports Event 
• Best Strategy for Product / Service Launch (for the collaboration with the Los Angeles Chargers and Stoiximan) 
• Kids / Youth / Grassroots (for the Los Angeles Chargers NFL Camp) 
• Best Experiential Sponsorship (for the partnership with Miele) 

• Sports / Cultural Tourism 
• Best Fun Experience 
• Best Use of Social & Influencer Marketing Presence (for the partnership with SIXT, member of the MOTODYNAMICS Group) 

At the same time, Santorini Experience was recognized with:

• Gold Award in the category Integrated Marketing Campaign 
• Silver Award in the category Sports Events 

The Tourism Awards represent the highest distinction in the Greek tourism industry, featuring participation from the country’s leading hotels, tourism organizations, and hospitality businesses. The recognition of a sporting event with a Gold Award in the Integrated Marketing Campaign category further confirms Santorini Experience’s distinctive position as one of Santorini’s most influential tourism ambassadors.

Building on this remarkable legacy, the Municipality of Thira, the Department of Sports & Culture of the Municipality of Thira, and ActiveMedia Group invite professional and amateur athletes from around the world to become part of the next chapter by competing in the breathtaking and idyllic landscape of Santorini.

The race weekend will once again be complemented by the 2nd Santorini Experience Sunset Party, now an established tradition of the event.

This one-of-a-kind musical experience, open to residents, athletes, and visitors alike, will take place during one of the island’s most magical moments—the Santorini sunset.

On Saturday, October 17, internationally acclaimed DJ Vasilis Tsilichristos will take over the decks for a special sunset set against the iconic backdrop of the Caldera.

Admission will be free, offering locals and visitors an unforgettable experience.

The event is supported by AESTIAN Philoxenia & Hospitality, the Municipal Community of Thera, Rizes Gastro Taverna, and Santorini Experience itself.

Premium Mobility Partner of the event is SIXT, a member of MOTODYNAMICS Group. 

Gold Sponsors of the event are AESTIAN Philoxenia & Hospitality, Sandblu Santorini.

Silver Sponsor of the event is Miele.

Official Water is the natural mineral water VIKOS.

Official Technical T-shirt is 42K Running.

Jewelry Partner is Spanou Jewelry. 

Partners of the event are Santorini Boatmen Association, Othen Elemental Aesthetics.

Santorini Experience is made possible thanks to the invaluable support of its Hospitality Sponsors, who contribute special accommodation rates, promote the destination, and provide substantial assistance to the event.

The hotels supporting Santorini Experience to date include: Athina Luxury Suites, Sandblu Santorini, Aqua Vista Hotels, Meltemi Suites, Meltemi Village, Atlantis Beach, Eteoro Suites Santorini, Rocabella Santorini, Loizos Stylish Residences, Phaos Santorini Suites, Santo Mangata, Aressana Spa Hotel & Suites, Venus Sunrise Suites & Villas, Blue Spa Hotel, Sienna Eco Resort.

Santorini Experience is co-organized by the Municipality of Thira, the Department of Sports & Culture of the Municipality of Thira, and ActiveMedia Group.

#SantoriniExperience

Website
Instagram Page
Facebook Page
X Account
YouTube Channel
TikTok Account