Beautiful beaches and impressive temples
Following our numerous trips to Crete, in 2022 we decided to visit another Greek island and settled for Rhodes. Whilst it is much smaller than Crete, we found the island to have various options for visitors- ranging from archaelogical sites, to stunning beaches. This blog post highlights just a few of our favourite parts of the trip and some recommendations.
Columns at Lindos Acropolis in Rhodes
Kallithea Springs
On our first visit out of the hotel, we visited Kallithea Springs. Located a 15 minute drive from the city of Rhodes on the northern tip of the island, Kallithea Springs was previously a spa, used as for hydrotherapy and medicinal purposes going back to as far as the 5th century BC. The springs found themselves being visited by many seeking treatment, and over the years, additional buildings were built to come together as a complex, becoming more grand. The Italian King himself was at the inauguration of the site in 1929.
World War II sadly saw the Springs turned into a prison, and post-war attempts saw the Springs reopen and then shut down again. During this time period, the Springs found themselves used in film-making and has been the setting for numerous movies.
It was only in the 1990s that the Springs would see financial investment coming through, and restoration could finally begin. These works saw the restoration of the entrance and the Rotunda, and when visiting you can see the original beauty and vision coming through.
Eros fountatin at Kallithea Springs
Above: cafe/restaurant at Kallithea Springs
Left: the entrance to the Springs
The photographic exhibition at Kallithea Springs
These days, visitors can spend some time walking around the site, visit the cafe/restaurant, and swim in the sea. The Springs also host various events, and even weddings- and it easy to see why given the beautiful setting. When we visited, we spent some time walking around and exploring the gardens, and grabbed a coffee at the cafe. Would definitely recommend a trip here- the Springs are serene and offer a nice alternative to a standard beach. There are also sunbeds available for visitors, as well as showers. We didn’t go into the water, but apparently the place is great for snorkelling and you can see fish around the rocks in the cove.
It is easy to get here, and there is a car park with plenty of space. Entrance was around 4 euros which makes for a good day out for visitors.
The Rotunda at Kallithea Springs
Entrance to the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes
Rhodes Old Town
We found the Old Town to have quite a lot to offer- from beautiful, cobbled medieval streets to impressive palaces and hidden gardens. We would recommend spending a bit of time in the Old Town wandering around and visiting some of the museums. We have put together a seperate blog post on the Old Town- click here to read more.
Lindos
Lindos was one of our favourite places on the island, and is definitely a must visit if you come to Rhodes. The combination of history, shopping and beaches makes for a perfect combination. In terms of getting to Lindos, the town is well signposted and well accessible- it is around a 45 minute drive from the old town, but there coaches and day trips which you can also go on to get here, instead of hiring a car and driving.
If you do decide to drive, there are many parking options- some with better views than others, and some paid for and others free. We parked nearest to St Paul’s beach- at Agios Pavlos Beach Parking Lot. This was free parking, ideally located for the beach, and not too long of a walk to the Acropolis, which was the main reason for our visit to Lindos.
Shops in Lindos
Views of Lindos from the Acropolis
Entrance to the Lindos Acropolis
Columns at Lindos Acropolis
Acropolis of Lindos
Located at the northern tip of Lindos, the Acropolis is certainly worth visiting – although just to warn that there are quite a few steps to go up, and definitely do bring some water with you, wear comfortable walking shoes and perhaps a hat from the sun if visiting in the summer. If you have a fear of heights, it is worth noting that in some parts the stairs do not have ropes/rails so may be a bit overwhelming overall. The Acropolis is quite high up-on a rock over 100m above Lindos itself, giving incredible views as you can from the photos. If you are into architecture or culture, we would recommend a trip here- not just for the views, but for the stunning fortress and ruins you can find here.
At the top of the acropolis, you can see the ruins from the Doric temple to Athena, the theatre and a place for sacrifice. Whilst the most impressive of these is the temple to Athena, but overall the entire acropolis is stunning and incredibly impressive. There are a few information boards dotted around, but perhaps not enough given the number of visitors and the importance of the sight.
Entrance was around 12 euros per person. There is a shop en route up the hill, just before the entrance to the Acropolis- should you wish/need to buy some water! To find out more about visiting, click here.
Lindos Acropolis
Shopping in Lindos
Lindos Town
We would highly recommend spending some time walking around the winding, cobbled streets of Lindos. The village is very cute, with whitewashed houses, with shops, restaurants and cafes dotted throughout. We found it very interesting wandering around, exploring the shops and looking at some of the gifts and stores. There are also numerous beautiful churches in the town, such as the Church of Our lady which is stunning.
We found numerous shops selling ceramics and couldn’t help but buy some plates to bring back and use in our cooking.
Bay of St Paul
Whilst there are other beaches in Lindos, we preferred to visit the Bay of St Pauls. This is a postcard- perfect, picturesque bay, named after St Paul who is believed to have landed here in around 50AD, and there is a little chapel on the side of the bay to St Paul.
The beach here is beautiful, although it is man made. There are many sunbeds here and cabanas you can rent. We spent a good few hours here- first at the Tambakio restaurant to grab some lunch (read more below in the food and drink section), then on a sunbed nearby, dipping into the water occasionally. We found that we were able to also order drinks from the sunbed- which was very convenient.
Views of Lindos Acropolis across St Paul’s bay
Kritinia castle
On the drive to Ancient Kamiros, we found our route almost taking us past the castle of Kritinia. Stopping by here wasn’t too much of a detour, and is certainly worth it- just for the views alone. The castle is Venetian, and believed to have been built around the 14th-15th century. It is free to enter and wander around, but there isn’t much there by way of signs or information boards. One thing is definitely obvious- which is why this particular location was chosen for the castle. As you can see from the photos, this very spot offers clear views over the sea and neighbouring islands, so would offer the perfect strategic location.
Today, most of the castle is in ruins, but you can make out some of the walls and remnants of some buildings. Nearby, you can also find a small cafe/shop selling snacks, as well as some produce such as olives, olive oil, honey etc, and there are also some bathrooms here. Parking is free, well signposted and there should be more than enough for visitors.
Kritinia Castle
Views from Kritinia Castle
Kritinia – Café & Shop
Views from the road whilst driving towards Kritinia Castle
Archaeological site of Ancient Kamiros
Our next stop was Ancient Kamiros. Located on the northern coast of the island, around a 45 minute drive from Old Town, Kamiros is a small hillside city which dates back to
6th BC. Excavated in the 19th century, Kamiros is located in a very fertile area and it is believed to have mostly developed from its agricultural production.
Kamiros is one of three ancient cities on the island- the other two being Lindos and Ialysos. Visiting Ancient Kamiros is certainly recommended, and is a must visit for those interest in archaeology. There is much to see here, with many information boards dotted throughout, and you get a brochure upon arrival giving a bit more detail on the history of the site and the various ruins you see during your visit.
Hellenistic Houses at the Archaeological Site of Kamiros
Ruins at the Archaeological Site of Kamiros
Map of Ancient Kamiros
As you walk around, you can see some well-preserved ruins- including houses/villas and temples. The city appears to have been split into areas- with the acropolis on the hill, some private houses, and the marketplace as such. The photo of the site below shows just how big the site was, and shows the different buildings and different parts of the site and their uses. There is also an impressive cistern on the site, even bath houses, and an ancient fountain. We easily spent a few hours walking around the site, as well as admiring the panoramic views from the hilltop looking towards the sea.
Ancient Kamiros is easy to reach by car, and entrance is around 6 euros. To find out more about visiting, click here.
Views over the Archaeological Site of Kamiros towards the sea
Signs to the Seven springs
The springs at Seven Springs
Seven Springs
Our final stop for the day was the Seven Springs, which we thought would make a great lunch spot. Located in a forest, the area is very lush and green, and offers a nice escape from the business of the Old Town, Lindos or the beaches. We spent some time walking around the area, and had lunch at the Taverna Epta Piges which was very scenic and peaceful. The food was simple, but tasty.
We found numerous peacocks wandering about, whilst we were having our lunch, accompanied by geese and ducks. There is also a tunnel visitors can go through- but it is very long and dark- so a word of warning. The aquaduct tunnel takes you to the lake, but luckily there is an option to walk above ground to the lake, rather than through the tunnel. Whilst the lake is stunning, it is man-made, and was created for the purpose of supplying water to nearby Colymbia.
Overall, the area was quite busy when we visited, but there was more than enough space at the taverna and in the car park. There are limited information boards, but there are a few signs dotted around. If you are looking for a spot for lunch which is slightly different and a bit more charming, we would definitely recommend you stop by here.
Peacocks at Seven Springs
Best Food & Drink
Golden Olympiade Rhodes Rhodes Old Town
Whilst walking around, we saw many restaurants, all with similar menus. However, one particular menu item we were keen on trying was the Symi shrimp. Unfortunately we weren’t able to visit Symi island due to bad weather, so had to settle for having this dish in Rhodes itself, but this did not disappoint. Whilst walking around the Old Town, not many places actually served Symi shrimp but Golden Olympiade Rhodes did- and it was delicious!
The other dishes we had here were equally as good, so would certainly recommend a visit here.
Symi Shrimp at Golden Olympiade Rhodes
Tambakio restaurant
St Paul’s bay
Tambakio is a beautifully located restaurant, on St Paul’s bay in Lindos. The dishes were also stunning- and tasty- we had some fresh seafood and a delicious salad. Would recommend this restaurant for anyone wanting a good meal in a stunning setting!
Taverna Epta Piges
Seven Springs
Located within the Seven Springs, Taverna Epta Piges has a simple but tasty menu. We had a few traditional starters, including dolmades had some grilled dishes for the mains.
This taverna is also in a beautiful setting-with springs running alongside, and peacocks and geese wandering between the tables.
Taverna Epta Piges
Starters at Golden Olympiade Rhodes
Seafood at Tambakio restaurant
Salad at Tambakio restaurant
Taverna Epta Piges
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