30 Our trips are bound by our Booking Terms & Conditions - for details visit discover-the-world.co.uk/educationalvisitsGreece: SantoriniGeology, volcanoes and the legend of AtlantisThe island of Santorini (historically known as Thira) is one of the most photogenic islands of the Aegean Sea. It is actually the largest island of a circular archipelago, the remnants of a volcanic caldera. The area has seen frequent major volcanic eruptions over hundreds of thousands of years and each has left its mark on these tranquil islands, part of the Cyclades group. The devastating eruption of 1613BC (give or take a decade!), produced one of Earth's largest ever explosions, giving rise to the legend of Atlantis and providing Santorini with it's own Bronze Age Pompeii, currently undergoing excavation. The crescent-shaped island of Santorini and smaller Therasia form the outer ring of the now flooded caldera, almost encircling the uninhabited islands of Nea Kameni, Palea Kameni and Aspronisi. Why Santorini with Discover the World?Direct liaison with your own dedicated educational travel specialist who has first hand experience of what the region has to offer school groupsThe low-level, white-washed buildings, tiny churches with blue domed roofs and sun-shaded alleyways are typical of the Cyclades islands. Their concentration in places such as the main town of Fira, along the top of sheer cliffs is distinctive of Santorini. These cliffs display layer upon layer of solidified lava and drop 300m into the equally blue waters of the Aegean. This is the inner crescent - the outer crescent boasts sandy beaches of varying colours, dependent on the layer of rock exposed. Santorini and the nearby island of Anafi are the only places in Europe to experience a hot desert climate. It has no rivers and water is precious. However, with the rich volcanic soil, climate and unique ecology, and the help of a desalination plant, agriculture thrives - for example there is a small wine industry and Santorini cherry tomatoes are renowned. This opportunity to visit a unique Volcanic study location will definitely inspire your students.Our itinerary to Santorini begins with a Volcano Lecture and Presentation in the company of a leading Volcanologist who will introduce the island and its geological and geographical past. This invaluable introduction will provide countless areas of focus throughout the duration of the tour.Itineraries cover the following Geography topics: Tectonic Processes; Hazard Management; Tsunamis and Earthquakes; Coastal Landforms; Erosion; Impacts of Tourism; Fossils and Rocks; GeologyThe opportunity to visit a unique Volcanic study location situated in the glistening blue Aegean Sea. Prices from£548Based on 40 students and 4 staff on a 5-day tripView from Fira © Mikael Damkier

talk to the experts 01737 214 214 31Perissa - the Black Beach Geology, Coastal LandformsThis is a 7km long beach of volcanic black sand coupled with crystal clear waters with incredible views of Mont Mesa Vouno. The faults here in the rocky mountain sides reveal much pre-volcanic rock.FiraUrban development, Awe and Wonder Fira sits on the the rim of the ancient crater. There are numerous ways to reach the town: by 580 stone steps; donkey or the most popular, cable car. Enjoy colourful streets as well as sweeping views.Santorini Caldera, Palea and Nea Kameni Boat TripVolcano studies, Plate tectonicsThere can be no better way to experience the sheer scale of Santorini's grand crater than from the water. The spectacular landscape at sea level is awesome. Visit Nea Kameni, the youngest of the group and a still active volcano. Go ashore and take the path to the summit. At Palea it is possible to swim in hot mineral springs and mud baths. Santorini HighlightsSuggested itineraryCaldera ExperienceDepartures: year roundDay 1 Depart UK / Arrive SantoriniDay 2 Presentation by Volcanologist / Guided boat trip to the caldera and volcano hot springs visitDay 3 Archaeological Museum / Prehistoric Thira / Guided tour of Oia and AmmounudiDay 4 Ancient Thira, Perissa Black Beach/ Wine MuseumDay 5 Depart Santorini / Arrive UK Fira" Santorini has the worlds best caldera, the views are stunning. It is so easy to get around the island and see spectacular volcanic deposits which are accessible, clear for students to understand and study in a safe environment. " Roger Birch Head of Geology Collyers CollegeA Stromatolithe, a lime stone block which was thrown out of the volcano during the Minoan Eruption.Skaros© Jaap HartPath to Fira© Luke Daniek