Lalysos sits on the north western coast of Rhodes just six miles from Rhodes Town and next door to Ixia. Lalysos is often called Trianda. It is a popular tourist resort, especially with windsurfers thanks to its ever-present sea breeze. There are several surf schools if you want to learn a new sport. Lalysos is one of the oldest villages in Rhodes, along with Lindos and Kamiros. Ancient lalysos was located strategically on the top of the fortified Filerimos Hill. The remains of a Minoan settlement have been found, together with Mycenaean cemeteries on the surrounding hills. There are remains from the Archaic and Byzantine periods. The Temple of Athena Polias which was built in the second and third centuries BC stood in the spot where an even older temple stood. In the 15th century a medieval monastery and church were built on the site. Later, the Italians converted the monastery into a church.
The neighbouring Ixia is a busy tourist resort which sits next to the history steeped Old Town of Rhodes. Ixia clings to the curl of the Aegean island’s coastline with a lengthy pebble beach and seafront pavements. The Akramitis Mountains are a wonderful backdrop to this resort which is full of hotels, bars and restaurants. The two kilometre beach looks towards the Turkish mainland and is popular for windsurfing, parasailing and yachting. There are plenty of loungers, parasols and beach bars. The scenic promenade is lined with bars, tavernas and a few bakeries and shops.
Rhodes Town, the island’s capital, appeals to foodies, history buffs, shoppers and those that love visiting museums and beautiful architecture. Its Turkish quarter is home to some excellent shops and the magnificent Street of Knights, where the Crusaders made home in the Middle Ages, should not be missed. The gorgeous Old Town of Rhodes is an intricate warren of busy commercial streets and delightful, quiet alleys. The Old Town is full of Byzantine and Gothic churches, medieval buildings, mosques, traditional fountains, oriental motifs and many boutique shops and restaurants. The highlights of the Old Town are the Palace of the Grand Master, the Archaeological Museum housed in the Gothic building of the Great Hospital of the Knights, the Street of Knights and some of the mosques. Celebrating their medieval roots, it is common to see parades of locals dressed as knights, fire jugglers and jesters and stalls serving up banquest style feasts.
A short drive from the villa takes you to the village of Kremasti where, for one day each August, the village comes alive with the Festival of the Virgin Mary. There are street parades, lots of food stalls and traditional Greek singing and dancing in the streets. Dating back around 2500 years.
On the east coast of the island, lies the incredibly pretty village of Koskinou, famous for its unique mosaic of colours. The facades, doors and windows of the 17th and 18th century neoclassical houses are bright and cheerful, many with carved or etched designs. Small patios and gardens complete the pretty picture. You won’t be able to resist peeking in! The village boasts charming narrow streets, beautiful churches and chapels and a wonderful array of traditional taverns and cafes. There are countless paths that lead from the newer, coastal part to the old village with its cobbled streets and whitewashed squares full of vibrant flowers. Visitors to Koskinou enjoy delicious traditional cuisine in the local tavernas as well as yummy local wines. Koskinou has enjoyed an interesting history since the 4th century AD. Its 13th century medieval castle and the chapels built in the 4th century are worth visiting.
Kallithea is another gem of a seaside village. The beach at Kallithea is famous for its hot medicinal springs which were built by the Italians. The village is beautiful, lined with palm and pine trees and sprinkled with beautifully renovated buildings and mosaics, all influenced by the Arabic architecture. The Kallithea Spa was built in 1920 by the Italians. Following its restoration, the spa is a top sight. Many guests visit the area for its crystal clear azure waters and magical scenery.
South of these two charming resorts is Faliraki, buzzy and vibrant with its many hotels, bars, restaurants and an enormous sandy beach. The beach starts at the small harbour and spreads for nearly 5km so it’s a great spot to head for if you want a day of watersports and lazing in the sun. There is even an inflatable park for the young ones. Just about every watersport imaginable is offered as well as bungee jumping. The nightlife is incredible with fabulous restaurants, bars and nightclubs. The Faliraki Water Park is fantastic fun and a very popular excursion for families.
Lindos is one of the island’s prettiest towns, all in dazzling white and hints of blue. The town is overlooked by the Acropolis. You can hitch a ride to the top on the back of a donkey! The gorgeous narrow streets of Lindos feature charming shops and bars plus an excellent dining scene. Lindos’ millennia-old temple to Athena with its Doric columns and breathtaking 360 degree views should not be missed!
