The largest of the Dodecanese islands and fourth largest in Greece enjoys over 300 days of glorious sunshine a year and popular with tourists from around the world. As well as sunshine, Rhodes is blessed with a rich classical heritage and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its Medieval City. There’s something for everyone on this island of contrasts, which is why so many visit every year. Explore castles and ancient temples, traditional villages with tavernas and bars, quiet coves and beautiful beaches as well as outstanding cuisine – plus many contestants for the island’s best ice cream parlour! Here are a few more reasons why we love Rhodes and are lucky enough to call it our home.
Spectacular Beaches
Miles of sandy beaches stretch along the eastern coast of Rhodes and are a major attraction for visitors to the island. Families looking for fun filled days by the water, sun worshippers looking to top up their tan can find it here on the shores of the amazing Aegean Sea. Southern Rhodes is a Mecca for windsurfers and kiteboarders who love the offshore breezes, particularly at Prasonisi Beach where the Aegean Sea meets the Mediterranean Sea. Some of our favourite beaches include Faliraki, a resort that’s ideal for both active days and sunbathing. 16km south of Rhodes Town, this long golden sandy beach is well-equipped with sunbeds and parasols and there is a good selection of bars and restaurants, as well as a waterpark. The long sandy beach of Tsambika is located 25 km south of Rhodes town, under the imposing rock where it stands the miraculous Monastery of Tsambika. A blue flag winning beach is Kalithea beach at Ladiko. With pebbles and rocks, as well as sand, and set amid rugged hills, the beach is one of the less developed on the island but is popular for boating, and with scuba divers who enjoy exploring the sea bed. It was also used in the film the Guns of Navarone starring David Niven, Gregory Peck and Anthony Quinn who has a stretch of beach named after him – Anthony Quinn Bay. Then there is Pallas Beach in Lindos, in the shadow of the Acropolis, a popular choice with couples with the emphasis on relaxation with views of a magical medieval fortress, fourth-century temple, and hillsides of whitewashed homes.
Things to do
There is so much to see and do on Rhodes it Is hard to narrow down our favourites. Where better to start than the Old Town? One of the biggest draws to the island due to it being the largest medieval city in Europe and declared a World Heritage City by UNESCO in 1988, one step on the cobbled narrow street and you’ll be immersed in an atmosphere that’s reminiscent of a completely different era. There’s no such thing as a holiday to Rhodes without a visit to Lindos. This ancient city roughly 50 kilometres southeast of the island’s centre is utterly picturesque, is nestled at the foot of a steep rock and surrounded by azure waters. A unique nature reserve just 15 kilometres southwest from the centre of the city, The Valley of the Butterflies is a location of incomparable peace and relaxation, surrounded by verdant green forests and fascinating flora and fauna, not to mention the enchanting butterflies. Everything in Rhodes boasts a perfect blend of architecture and nature, and the Kalithea Springs are no exception to this rule. One of the most popular attractions on the island, the springs are set within a picturesque bay with warm, clear waters that make it an ideal location for swimming and snorkelling.
Ideal for Island Hopping
Rhodes is one of the best Greek islands to combine with others into an action-packed island-hopping holiday. Combine with the islands of either Symi, Halki or Tilos for a truly magical holiday or why not visit three islands on a Family Favourites getaway to Rhodes, Symi and Kos? The island of Symi offers a contrasting atmosphere to popular Rhodes with heavenly harbours, pastel-coloured houses and plenty of secluded coves. Kos is a lush green paradise with lively resorts in parts but also quieter locations for families. With beautiful beaches and picturesque mountain villages, this island gem is loved by kids and adults alike.
Where to Stay
From charming budget accommodation to luxury resorts, Rhodes has it all. Some of our most popular hotels are on this beautiful island and there is something to suit every need. Beach Break Rhodes is an affordable complex overlooking Faliraki Beach which makes it ideal for couples. The award winning Lindos Gardens is an Olympic favourite ideally located just outside Lindos with two swimming pools and a tennis court. For flexible, affordable accommodation, the Eleni Apartments, in Pefkos is the perfect base to explore Rhodes – or simply relax by the pool! And for 5-Star Ultra All Inclusive, the grand Akti Imperial Deluxe Hotel and Spa has an exquisite pool area overlooking the crystal-clear waters of the incredible Bay of Ixia. The Amada Colossus Resort which offers various All-Inclusive packages and onsite waterpark is perfect for families. Looking to get married in Greece? There is no better location than the Princess Andriana Hotel surrounded by stunning landscapes with faultless service from a great team and sumptuous cuisine.
