Exploring The Ancient And Modern Wonders Of Rhodes

There are an estimated 6000 Greek islands in total. Most of these are small territories that make for interesting talking points when viewed from the mainland or when cruised around as part of a sailing expedition. The larger islands are well-known destinations in their own right with some now synonymous with partying and beach holidays. Rhodes has everything you could wish for from a modern escape to the sun, yet it also has a fascinating history that stretches back as far as anyone can remember. Here’s a guide to making the most of a short trip to the capital of the Dodecanese region.

If you want to take a sailing trip to explore more of the Greek Islands, join our upcoming adventure where you can discover the deserted beaches, ancient ruins and charming villages of the Cyclades

Where to stay in Rhodes

Landscaped to blend in with its Mediterranean setting, Amada Colossos provides a dreamy selection of 699 rooms and 17 room types. From the subtle elegance of fully refurbished Sea, Side-Sea, and Hill View guest rooms, decorated with natural materials and modern comforts to 32 spacious suites and 5 villas with private pools, an elegant stay is assured. One of the best aspects of the hotel is that it manages to feel like a small, intimate property even though it operates on a large resort scale.

The Amada Colossos is situated between Faliraki and Kallithea, a short drive from the international airport towards the northern tip of the island. From here the Old Town is within easy reach and worth a day trip no matter how short your stay ends up being.

The staff will be able to provide you with all the options available for venturing into Rhodes, as well as the many things to do on the grounds of the property too. There is an excellent selection of cuisine from around the world here, as well as pools for adults, children and families. You can upgrade to a collection of suites with incredible views or take a beachside villa which offers seclusion with all the comforts of a well-maintained resort. easyJet holidays offer packages that take care of many of the smaller travel issues, but you might want to explore some of the additional flexibility the hotel offers if you want to go à la carte with your trip.

The Amada Colossos resort offers a range of rooms. The beachside villas are an excellent option for ultimate relaxation.

Nightly rates at Amada Colossos Resort start from €134 for a double room on a B&B basis

Things to do Rhodes

Rhodes is the largest Dodecanese Island, so as you can imagine there is a lot to see and do here. Head north from the hotel to Rhodes Town, the perfect place to start a cultural tour to find out more about the history of Greece. Many people will know that the old harbour was said to be guarded by a giant bronze and copper statue known as the Colossus. This was documented to be one of the original ancient wonders of the world, but little evidence of it remains today.

The Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights can be found within the walls of the Rhodes Town and is an excellent place to see some well-preserved antiquities. The lush gardens here are also where most historians now believe the Colossus actually stood, although there are two plinths on the shoreline that also purport to be the original standing points of the statue. You’ll have to make your own mind up, but you will leave with a new admiration of the ingenuity of previous generations.

Elsewhere on Rhodes the town of Lindos has an ancient set of ruins that are thought to be some of the best examples from ancient Greece. It’s a slightly longer drive to get here from the north, but you’ll get to pass through some great local shops and restaurants on your way. Two particular highlights we can recommend are Apolloniatisses and Emponas Village, where you can pick up some gifts for home and treats for yourself.

If you want a genuinely authentic slice of Greek cuisine, then take a trip to Taverna Paraga. This remote rustic restaurant has a family atmosphere and a wonderful selection of dishes that are cooked in traditional ways.

You might also want to visit The Valley of the Butterflies, which is about as descriptive an experience as you can get. You’ll have to time this just right as the season only runs from late June to September, but it is said to be as magical as it sounds.

With modern hotels, traditional villages and millennia of history to lean into, Rhodes is the perfect entry point for anyone looking to take their first Greek island experience.

easyJet holidays offers seven nights at the 5* Amada Colossos Resort on an All Inclusive Plus basis from £749 per person, ATOL protected

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