Spotlight on South Rhodes
Uncover its fascinating charm
If you are set on uncovering the most enchanting locations in Rhodes, your search will undoubtedly lead you to South Rhodes and its riviera.
South of Lindos, along the island’s eastern shoreline, you will come across one disarming backdrop after another. But the series of stunning beaches it harbours are only part of its enchantment. More to discover are iconic ancient landmarks, places rich in natural beauty and steeped in cultural fascination as well as an array of quaint seaside and hinterland settlements that show you the local way of life. Are you intrigued to find out more on South Rhodes? Then by all means read on.
Places worth visiting in South Rhodes
South Rhodes is still considered one of the less discovered parts of the island but at H Hotels, we know it well. Since we are located in the heart of South Rhodes’ eastern shore, our tips on how to best discover the area are both valuable and insightful. For instance, did you know that South Rhodes is home to about 10 villages that feature more than 90 churches and chapels? Now, there’s a mind-boggling, ‘fast’ fact – just in case you were wondering.
Discover ancient relics, fortified castles, stunning beaches, traditional villages & more
Starting with Lindos, one of Rhodes’ three ancient settlements, with the other two being Ialyssos and Kameiros. While the other two lie in ruins, Lindos commands the respect it is due through its well-preserved Acropolis, a striking, fortified citadel of various ancient monuments built on the natural hilltop that towers over the namesake, modern village on South Rhodes’ eastern frontier. It dates back as far as 300 BC and it is the point of interest found in the top spot of all South Rhodes itineraries. Visit both the village and the Acropolis in one go, to soak up leisurely town vibes as well as witness this archaeological marvel up close and personal, taking in the sweeping, panoramic views from the top.
St. Paul’s Bay is definitely one of the most lovely beaches you will find in South Rhodes. It is not one of the largest or most astonishing at first sight, however it has plenty of wow-factor appeal due to its small size and sheltered cove blessed with crystalline waters. It is a fully organized beach that offers a refreshing break from the summer heat if you’re visiting Lindos for the day. If it’s expansive and spectacular beaches that strike your fancy, head over to Kiotari – fill your mind with soul-rich panoramas of the sea and sun ideal and experience boundless enjoyment for beach days packed with fun and watersports activities.
Inland from Kiotari, lies the small village of Asklipio which has gone down in history for its Medieval fort, built in the 15th century too. This is a tiny but densely populated little settlement where locals go about their day-to-day lives, in a parallel universe to the hype that goes on at the nearby developed and cosmopolitan resort towns. The Medieval fort was built upon the ruins of an ancient lighthouse while the village’s main square is adorned by a recently restored Byzantine church whose origins date back to the 11th century.
While we are on the subject of iconic ancient landmarks in South Rhodes, one more to mention is the Castle of Monolithos. Found atop a massive rock on the western side of the island, these ruins tell the tale of a solitary Venetian castle built in the 15th century, on the tallest hill’s highest point to fend off enemy attacks. You will also find two chapels built there, while its strategic location offers astonishing views of the surrounding land and sea-scapes, even giving you a glimpse of two neighboring islets in the distance. The drive towards Monolithos is one of the island’s most scenic routes, so make a day out of it with a stop at Fourni beach, one of South Rhodes’ most beautiful beaches which you can actually see from the castle ruins.
Laerma village also provides an authentic peek into the livelihoods of local Rhodians. This is a traditional settlement built on a verdant hillside. Pay it a visit to soak up the vibes of this sleepy little town, as well as for reaching the Monastery of Moni Thari, also known as Archangel Michael Monastery. This is perhaps the most important religious monument of Rhodes, situated in a picturesque landscape surrounded by wild nature and is still active and inhabited by monks till this day.
One might wonder: “what of nature reserves in South Rhodes?”. Apart from Butterfly Valley found in the northern part of the island, in South Rhodes you will find three more places that are protected under the EU Natura 2000 directive. Apolakkia Dam is an artificial lake in a beautiful wetland, part of Rhodescape Adventure Park. It is home to many rare species of flora and fauna, while the park lets you engage in a series of activities within nature that do not disturb the natural habitat. In the outskirts of Profilia village, visitors can take in the natural beauty of the surrounding pine woods brimming with local wildlife, where the fallow deer called Dama-Dama are known to live. Last but not least of our nature reserves in South Rhodes comes the marvellous Prasonissi. Located at the southernmost tip of Rhodes, it is one to steal the show, ranking among the best beaches in Rhodes and standing out for its uniquely astonishing natural beauty.
With all the above and so much more to discover on your luxury holidays in Rhodes, your time here is what you make of it. Rhodes island is a destination that is more than capable of offering the savvy traveler a holiday made of dreams, regardless of particular interests. There is not just something for everyone – there are many fascinating things for everyone. Simply do your research or let us take the lead and we will show you the best side of South Rhodes, according to your preferences and desires.
