Villa Zina is located in Ixia, a busy tourist resort on the north coast of the island, right next to the history steeped Old Town of Rhodes. The resort 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.
Very close by is the island’s historic capital city, Rhodes Town which 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.
A five minute drive from the villa takes you to the neighbouring 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, Ancient lalyssos is perfect for history buffs just fifteen minutes from the villa.
The other side on Rhodes Town, on the east coast, lies the picturesque village of Koskinou. It is 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.
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.
Tsambika Beach is not far from Faliraki, a spectacular beach that was named after the Monastery of the Virgin of Tsambika, a tiny monastery some 340 metres up the hill. The view from the top of the hill over the bay is breathtaking and worth the effort of climbing there.
Lindos is a coastal gem, 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!
