Spotlight on 5+1 Rhodes villages
The island’s most charming
Besides gorgeous beaches and a glorious past steeped in Medieval tales of Knights in shining armour, Rhodes villages carry a unique kind of charm – one that is definitely worth exploring. Here are the 5+1 top entries to check out during your island holiday.
Going on island explorations to discover a series of beautiful settlements, is the perfect activity for families, couples, groups of friends, and even solo travelers. You are sure to be charmed as you follow the winding roads and cobblestone streets of each of the below-listed Rhodes villages. Each one has its own appeal and offers a taste of the day-to-day local island life. If you are curious about how true islanders live, make note of the following Rhodes villages to visit.
1. Lindos:
This one tops our list, well, just because it simply has it all. Lindos is perhaps the most striking of all Rhodes villages, with picture-perfect scenery that lends itself to capturing shots that have that postcard-level of wow. Traverse its narrow cobbled streets that lead you along an array of whitewashed houses, and make your way up to the ancient Acropolis that overlooks the entire village and the crystal-clear waters of Lindos beach and the neighbouring bay of St. Paul below. You’ll find it just a 20-minute drive from H Hotels Collection, or 47 km south of Rhodes town.
2. Archangelos:
Located halfway along the eastern coast of the island, Archangelos is known for its pottery and ceramics tradition. Surrounded by citrus groves, this is a peaceful and picturesque village where you can experience slow-paced moments and observe local craftsmanship. Furthermore, it is one of the Rhodes villages that still upholds traditional livelihood practices to this day; such as baking bread in their courtyard’s stone oven and wedding ceremonies and celebrations that still transpire according to the local customs. If your visit happens to coincide with a local wedding, say “Na zisete!” and chances are you will be invited to stay on for the festivities to come.
3. Embonas:
Situated on the slopes of Mount Attavyros, Embonas is the highest village on the island. Known for its artistic heritage, there you will find wonderful, handmade, traditional embroideries and a range of local wines. The local geomorphology makes the terrain perfect for vineyards to grow, making Embonas famous for its wine production. If you are wine aficionados especially, you must visit the village and sample the local wine varieties at various tavernas whilst enjoying the panoramic views of the countryside.
4. Koskinou:
Only a short drive from Rhodes town, and fairly close to the Seven Springs, it is worth your while to visit both in a single journey. Koskinou is a traditional, slow-paced settlement of quaint beauty. Expect narrow alleys, colorful houses adorned with intricate doors and windows, and vibrant bougainvilleas adorning the walls as well as other kinds of climbing plants that form canopies to provide much-needed shade. The so-called ‘Traditional House’, the 13th-century Medieval castle and the 4th-century chapels are among the top attractions there.
5. Salakos:
Nestled amidst lush greenery and mountains, Salakos is a tranquil village with a traditional atmosphere. Set in the hinterland, about an hour’s drive from Rhodes town or Lindos, Salakos is one of the most unique of Rhodes villages since it is the only settlement where you can admire alpine-style residences. Apart from its peculiar architecture, Salakos is known for its walnut trees – if you decide to eat locally, make sure you ask for the walnut specialty dishes. While in Salakos, you will find various ancient ruins linked to the Hellenistic Period, as well as a handful of Byzantine churches and chapels plus the historical cave of Makarouna. Read more about Rhodes caves if you are interested in discovering the others found all around the island.
5 + 1. Apolakia:
Our plus-one entry is non-other than Apolakia or Apolakkia village. It is a must-visit for its quaint charm, natural scenery, peaceful vibes and gorgeous lake also known as the Apolakkia Dam. The latter is a significant biotope and a protected environment by Natura 2000 and provides a natural sanctuary to enjoy by sitting under the shade of the trees and swimming. You will also find a picturesque chapel there, dating back to 1290. This settlement is characterised by small, colourful houses with tiled roofs, windmills and various monasteries plus the Old Italian House in the main Square which is exceptionally beautiful to observe. If you are into hiking, Apolakia provides some ideal roads for that.
The above-mentioned Rhodes villages are great to discover on your own during your luxury holidays in Rhodes. All you need is transportation – you may rent a car, arrange a private transfer or reach out to us so that we can help you in preparing a customised itinerary to see as many of these Rhodes villages in a day or two.
