RHODOS
Rhodes with a land mass of 1,401km2 and a coastline of approx. 253km is the largest island in the Dodecanese group of islands. And Halki, a small island off of Rhodes, is the smallest inhabited island in the Dodecanese. With the exception of Rhodes Town and Lindos, we are trying to keep you away from tourists, so you can experience the real Rhodes and see some of the loveliest areas on the island.
Assuming you are arriving in at Diagoras Intl Airport – named after a legendary boxer from the 5th century BC, Diagoras won the Pythian Games, Nemean Games and won the Isthmian Games not to mention the Olympic games, he clearly earned his place at the airport – pick up your car from the Alma Rental Desk and make the 20 min drive into Rhodes town.
The history of Rhodes is vast, it was first inhabited in the Neolithic period, and remains of early civilization are found at the prehistoric site of Trianda (Ialysos) on the north west coast. There really is so much it would take so long to write about it and you probably don’t have time to read it, but don’t underestimate how much time you will need if you would like to learn about the history, all the inhabitants and rulers.
We do recommend you stay at least 2 nights within the old city walls to really get a feel for Rhodes town, you will see why this has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Centre. There are 10 different entrances into Rhodes Old Town and it’s all clearly labelled so you should not get lost … (famous last words) and we say that because there are over 200 streets and alleyways, some with no names .. bring your compass! Once there, ditch the car and either get on foot or jump on the red bus and get the official tour.
Step back in time and Immerse yourself inside the ancient city walls. Rhodes is the oldest inhabited medieval town in Europe. You can walk along the top of the walls and experience the spectacular views of the city and further afield. Venture up the Street of the Knights, pass hours in fascinating museums bursting with history and artifacts, the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights etc. There really is just so much to see and do, 2 days is probably needed to really take it all in
After wandering the streets and jumping on and off the bus we highly recommend a visit to Eli beach for some fun. Bondi is not the only city with a beach, Rhodes has beautiful Eli Beach with its crystal clear water, sandy beach, bars and restaurants, great way to unwind at the end of the day. And how many beaches (city or otherwise) that have a beach trampoline..? And from there wander further along to the far end of Rhodes town (west) to watch the sun set over Turkey in the distance. Not to be missed.
We highly recommend getting the ferry from Rhodes to Symi Island. It’s only an hour away and as you arrive into the pretty harbour with all the pastel coloured houses you will see why we recommend it. Venture into the centre of Yialos, jump on the little tourist train that will take you on a tour, or simply be a foot soldier and wander around at your own speed. Churches, castle, museums, Monastery or just frequent the little cafes and bars and hit the gorgeous beaches, what ever you feel like, the day is yours and you will love it!
After breakfast we are headIng out towards Lindos and along this coastal route you will also pass Afandou, one of the largest and oldest villages on the island, with of course the most beautiful beaches and also the Monastery of Tsambika, all this before you even arrive at Lindos. Tsambika Monastery is a Byzantine era monastery build on the top of a hill (lots of steps so be ready for the climb), with breathtaking views over the coastline and hinterland – well worth the climb!
Lindos is down in a valley so it can get very hot so you may opt to stay somewhere outside of Lindos, but Lindos really is stunning and you can always stay somewhere with airconditioning 😉 From the Lindos Acropolis – built by the legendary Knights of St John – you can look down and take in the amazing coastline and all along St Paul’s Bay. Lindos is a stunning village, offering charm, history, views and hospitality by the bucket load! Everywhere is walking distance once you get there so, again, ditch the car and get walking and exploring through the maze of white-washed walls of cafes, shops and tavernas. Lindos is a place that will keep calling you back.
You will be more than ready for a swim at the end of the day and the beaches are gorgeous white sand and the water is very clear and very inviting. In addition to Lindos beach you also have Pallas Beach and the Lindos Sea Caves – you can swim inside if you have a sense of adventure and not scared of the dark! Absolutely wonderful way to end the day (and indeed start the day or break the day!)
Today we are heading to the southern most tip of the island to Prasonisi Beach and the village of Apolakkia. Only a short drive, the roads are usually quiet and then an easy drive on to the Mountain village of Monolithos.
This drive will take you through little villages, give you views of mountain peaks and lush forests and fields, the smell of pine forests and citrus groves and the sound of the cicadas, so different from the hustle and bustle of the towns and beach resorts. Winding your way down to Prasonisi Beach you will see the beautiful azul blue waters of the Aegean come into view. During the winter when the water levels are higher this peninsula becomes an island, the Green Island and it’s also known for the meeting of the two seas – the Aegean and Mediterranean meet here;, waves and wind to the right and calm Med to the left.. It’s a phenomenal place and a magnet for windsurfing and kiteboarding. This secret little spot is one of the most impressive beaches on Rhodes. There is a purpose built village in Prasonisi for tourists where you can find drinks and food, the nearest village or town is Kattavia is just a short drive away.
Kattavia is a typical small Greek village with white-washed houses, shops and tavernas and a lot of character, mostly visited by people passing through and the surfers who are there for the waves in Prasonisi. There is a handful of monuments there, St George dating back to the 17th Century. During the day it’s a quiet little village but with all the family run tavernas that line the village square, in the evening it comes to life with people, music and amazing food! This is also a great place to pick up a hiking trail if you wanted to take in some hiking during your stay.
Moving on to Apolakkia which is located in a valley only around 20 minute drive away, but again a beautiful experience driving through the Akramitis Mountains to get there. It’s a very quaint, traditional little village, with a village square, not dissimilar to Kattavia and a short 2km drive away there is a 4km long, wide sandy beach … which is not busy, but even if it was I think you could find a secluded spot for yourself 😊 The beach is protected under the European Natura 2000 Network. Along with it’s own ecosystem two of the protected species are the Loggerhead turtle and the Mediterranean Monk Seal. There are 2 Byzantine churches nearby one of which is located next to Apolakkia Lake where you can swim or look out for the wild birds.
Next stop Monoliths – just 15 mins up the road. Just outside the village is the Medieval Castle of Monolithos, located on top of a 100m craggy rock which is where the village got its name from. Built in 1480 by the Knights of St John, this castle is mostly only a ruin, but the views from here are spectacular and you will see the islands of Halki and Alimia sitting in the shimmering turquoise blue of Aegean Sea. All just breathtaking.
As you make your way down to the charming village of Monolithos village you will see you are in the shadow of a quite imposing mountain, Akarmitis. In the village you will find local honey and olive oil for sale – in fact there is a deli in Monolithos, owned by Manolis, where you can by all these supplies PLUS in the basement there is a wine cellar where he makes his wines … definitely worth a visit.
The views from Monolithos are just spectacular and the only place on the island where you can take in views of mountains, hills, beaches, forests and the sea with the scattering of castles and monasteries poking up through the pine forests. There are also road to drive and tracks to walk if you want to further your adventure in this area. Or simply head to one of the stunning beaches, like Aka Fourni, to relax and enjoy the space.
The views from Monolithos are just spectacular and the only place on the island where you can take in views of mountains, hills, beaches, forests and the sea with the scattering of castles and monasteries poking up through the pine forests. There are also road to drive and tracks to walk if you want to further your adventure in this area. Or simply head to one of the stunning beaches to relax and enjoy the space. Moving on from Monolithos we arrive at Kritinia, a peaceful, beautiful whitewashed village full of charm and life offering spectacular panoramic views to the sea. It’s just a short drive from the coast so you could use this as a base if you wanted to spend the day on the beach. Kritinia is home to cosy guest houses, cafes and tavernas that come to life at night serving delicious traditional food. On the way from the village to the beach you will find Kritinia Venetian Castle built in 1472, and the church of Agios Ioannis with its 16th century frescoes.
Just 4kms from the village is the Port of Kameirou Skala where you find wonderful fish tavernas and where you can get a 2hr boat trip over to the tiny island of Halki – Halki is the smallest in habited island in the Dodecanese and definitely worth the visit if you have time, especially if you like to hike, there is so much to see on the island and walking is the best way to do it. Plus as this is your penultimate port of call before returning to the airport, perhaps a day or so on the island, hiking, might be the best way to walk off all that amazing local food you have enjoyed during your tour!
One last stop before heading to the airport, you can’t go to Rhodes without visiting Butterfly Valley! It’s only around 30 mins drive from Kameirous and on the way back to Rhodes Town, some might say we’ve saved the best to last! This unique nature reserve has a habitat that is dense with flora and natural beauty. It is an amazing place to walk, and walk, and explore. You will find waterfalls, bridges, paved paths and ponds. You will hear the cicadas, the sound of water, and just peace. And of course there are the butterflies, millions of them. This is a wonderful place for everyone to visit.
So from here you head back to Rhodes town or the airport and we bid you a farewell until our next blog!
Sources and credits to:
nothingfamiliar.com
Wiki
Greeka.com
jgttravel.com
greekhousemonolithos.gr
rhodesguide.com
visitgreece.gr
valleyofbutterflies.com
