A chapter on Seven Wonders of Ancient World and an imaginary diagram of Colossus of Rhodes had created lots of interests in me about Rhodes and Ancient Greece from my school days.I love Greece and visited multiple times. Last year (2024) we decided to explore Rhodes, Crete and Naxos. Visa was valid, so purchased flight tickets and landed at the great city of Athens.
A short flight from Athens and we were, at Rhodes,the largest of Dodecanese chain of Greek island, a treasure trove of history, culture and natural beauty.
Beautiful sunny morning, clear sky and azure clean Mediterranean did welcome us to this wonderful island. A short ride took us to our nice cute boutique hotel near windy beach at Rhodes city which is a popular tourist destination because of fantastic and stunning beaches, historical sites and vibrant nightlife. City is UNESCO heritage site too.
Windy beach, known for strong winds and famous for surfing is at northern end of most popular beach Elli at Rhodes town. Elli beach is a bustling sandy beach lined by numerous hotels, restaurants and beach bars and is always thronged by tourists. We did not waste any time and dived in to the sea. Half an hour swim made us fresh and we headed towards a Greek tavern to have some local beer and discuss next itineraries.
Another interesting point to note is that Turkish coast is very close to Rhodes and is clearly visible from Elli beach. Marmaris town of Turkey can be reached by ferry in one hour (50/60 Euro). Of course you need to have multiple entry visas for both countries.
Rhodes is very famous for its lovely cosy sandy beaches and secluded bay and coves.
Other than Elli beach Anthony Quinn Bay (this famous actor got settled in Rhodes), Faliraki and Kalithea springs, Lindos and Afandou beach are very famous because of their lush emerald water or shallow clear bay are ideal for snorkelling and swimming.
Many boat trips are available from Mandraki harbour to nearby coves, beaches or islands. Day trip to nearby Symi island, Anthony Quinn bay, full day catamaran trip with lunch, wine and swimming stops or sunset dinner cruise are excellent options for all different age group of tourists.
Next day we took hop on hop off bus which is the best way to explore the city as it is takes you to all famous attraction points like Palace of the grand masters of Knights, old town, Old and new harbour, Town hall, Acropolis and Monte Smith hill. Palace is a medieval castle with impressive architecture, Acropolis has temple of Apollo and excellent view from top and old town is really charming and ideal for shopping and relaxing with coffee or wine.
Some highlights about ancient Colossus of Rhodes which has made this island so famous,is a must in this article . It was built around 280 BCE, was 120 feet tall (one of the tallest statues of ancient world, made of bronze and iron, a marvel of engineering by sculptor Chares of Lindos but unfortunately got destroyed in 226 BCE because of earthquake and ruins were unmoved for 800 years. Statue was dedicated to Sun god Helios and was built to commemorate the victory of Rhodes against invaders from Cyprus.
Today as one approaches entrance of Mandraki harbour, two large pillars can be seen with statue of deer on top which are actually imaginary location of the ancient Colossus.
After an excellent evening at a night club at Elli beach we ended our day after a nice stroll along the seashore. What a charming island indeed !!!
How to reach
By Air
Many flights from Athens, nearby islands and Turkey reach Rhodes Diagoras (ancient Greek boxer) airport.
By Ferry
From all islands, Athens, Turkey.
Where to stay
Budget hotel to star hotels, hostels and home stays are available.
