Location
Rhodes, the island of the sun, the pearl of the Mediterranean, is of enormous interest both for its natural beauties and for its archaeological treasures. With its marvellous climate and excellent tourist infrastructure, it is suitable for holidays all year round.
Miles of sandy and pebble beaches, picturesque harbours, a sea of impressive depth, deeply shaded valleys, green mountains, dazzling white villages, archaeological monuments and beautiful ruins from all periods of time are the main hallmarks of this beautiful island. Its capital, the magnificent medieval city of Rhodes, is the capital of the prefecture of the Dodecanese. Rhodes has been proclaimed as a monument of global heritage by UNESCO.
Rhodes Island lies in the south-eastern part of the Aegean Sea. It is the largest island of the Dodecanese Islands. Rhodes is 270 nautical miles from Piraeus and has an area of 1400 sq km and a length of 78 km. Rhodes boasts on an average 300 days of sunshine per year. Its population today is approximately 100,000.
How To Get Here
By Air
A large number of airlines from several cities operate charter flights within the holiday period (April to late October) which fly direct to Rhodes. Alternatively, if you are reaching Rhodes through Athens, there are many connecting flights daily, and the average flight time is approx. 45 minutes. Other domestic flights link Rhodes direct to Thessaloniki, Crete, Mykonos, Santorini, Karpathos and Kastellorizo (Megisti island).
By Sea
If you prefer to travel by boat, Ferries to Rhodes leave regularly from the port of Piraeus (Athens) with an average journey time of 15 hours.
The Medieval City of Rhodes and the Palace of Grand Masters within it. (World Heritage). Just 3.5km from the Eden Roc Hotel, lies the Medieval Town of Rhodes (know as the Old Town).
Simply fascinating, the old town carries twenty four centuries of history and is the largest living medieval town in Europe. Over 5000 habitants live and work in the same buildings in which the Knights of St. John lived six centuries ago.
Valley of the Butterflies: Arguably the most attractive natural destination on the island, home to the Panaxia butterfly (Quadripunctaria Poda), the Valley of the Butterflies (Petaloudes) lies 20km South of Diagoras Airport, close to the village of Thelogos (Tholos). From late July to early September, thousands of butterflies overwhelm the valley in order to reproduce. Despite the fact that the number of butterflies declines as the years go by (due to a number of reasons including tourist disturbance) the valley of the butterflies remains a remarkable site one should not miss when visiting the island of Rhodes.
(*located only 5min (driving time) from the Eden Roc Hotel)
Recently restructured to resemble what it originally looked like when its waters were thought to carry therapeutical properties, this picturesque anchorage surrounded by pine trees, provides both an archaeological site of remarkable interest as well as magnificent scenery ideal for swimming and relaxing. A popular cafeteria with refreshments and light snacks operates all day, while there is also a diving school on site for those interested in exploring its fascinating sea world.
Acropolis of Rhodes (Temple of Apollo) – Monte Smith hill
The panoramic view of the city of Rhodes and the Aegean Sea is simply breathtaking. Unbeatable for a romantic evening stroll, the sunset at Monte smith is probably as good as it gets. The view extends over the sea across to the Turkish coast.
The Green and beautifully laid out archaeological park contains the Hellenistic stadium, built in the 3rd century BC, where the Athletic events of the Aleia Games took place.
The lovely village of Lindos is one of the most attractive and beautiful villages of Rhodes, and is located south of the capital, on the eastern coast of the island, at a distance of 50km from the city of Rhodes. Beautiful scenery, a lively traditional village, colours and atmosphere of another era and traditional white houses in absolute semmetry attract thousands of visitors each year. The paths of the village are filled with fine restaurants, bars and interesting gift shops. Overlooking Lindos bay and the Aegean Sea stands the famous Acropolis of Lindos and the remains of Lyndia Athenas’ temple.
7 Springs
‘’Epta piges’’ (seven springs) lies on the way to Archipolis Village. It is a valley flowing with clear springs and covered with enormous plane and pine trees. One of the most charming destinations on Rhodes, Seven Springs offers a cool, peaceful landscape, even in the heat of high summer, swamped in greenery.
Waters come out from the springs all year around to form a small lake accessible through a narrow tunnel of 186cm. Definitely recommended if visiting Rhodes during a heat wave.
Filerimos is a hill 15 km away from Rhodes-town. The upper part of Filerimos is a large plateau and most of the buildings are found on the eastern side. They include the foundations of a temple, an Early Christian basilica and a Byzantine church which was destroyed during Turkish occupation and rebuilt by the Italians. A cobbled walkway leads you through the tree lined avenue to a large Cross where overwhelming panoramic views stretch out around your feet.
More information on Rhodes islands at: www.rhodes.gr