NEWS & EVENTS

1. The Valley of the Butterflies

Known locally as Petaloudes Valley, this is one of only a few naturally occurring areas in Greece that are home for hundreds of thousands of butterflies and moths. In the summer/peak months, especially August and September you will see the mating rituals of the Jersey Tiger moths. It isn’t just butterflies you will see, although timing your visit is integral if you want to see butterflies not chrysalis. The valley is also full of rare and beautiful elements to explore, including waterfalls, rock pools that you can navigate using the footpaths and bridges that run through the forest. 

This inland adventure must not be missed if you want to see something unlike anything else during your travels.

2. Fasouli Springs

Not far from Faliraki in the quiet village of Psinthos, the Fasouli Springs are located. Tucked away from any crowds this isn’t your average hot spot, tourist location. The shady woods are great for escaping the mid-summer heat as well as the crowds. The naturally occurring springs and waters create a beautiful and peaceful area to relax in and enjoy everything that Rhodes has to offer.

Once you’re done you can head into the village that surround the waters, and stop in a taverna for a snack or drink.

3. The Municipal Park of Rhodes

The town of Rhodes has a few beautiful parks to relax in, including the Municipal Park of Rhodes which was once the Royal Gardens. Still maintained to this day, the gardens are great to stroll around or to go for a picnic. The Royal Pavilion is also still there, however, now it is called the ‘Cultural Center’ which houses the local library, reading areas and Greek sculptures.

4. Rodini Park

A little further south of the town of Rhodes and the other parks, you will find Rodini Park which renowned for more than its flora and fauna. Wildlife and history give this park an edge over some of the others on offer.

On top of the beautiful forest walkways and streams that are similar to the other parks, there is also a small zoo within this park, housing the rare Rhodian deer which are native to the mountains in Rhodes. You can also find plenty of stunning peacocks roaming the grounds. Everything about this park exudes a tropical jungle experience making it totally unforgettable.

The area also has historical importance. It is the site of the School of Rhetoric which is where some of Greece’s most notable characters through history attended, such as Mark Antony and Julius Caesar. On the site you can also find the ruins of the 3rd century necropolis and tombs which are carved into the rock.

5. The Seven Springs

Known locally as Epta Piges, the park is located almost directly in the middle of Lindos and Faliraki. The valley is similar to the others in many ways, there are pine forests, water ways, footpaths and bridges to traverse.

Locate all seven springs and follow the footpaths back up to the sources. The walk starts from the roadside and has a main footpath or there is a tunnel entrance for the brave adventurers. This tunnel is an unusual and fun experience for the whole family (as long as they’re ok with small spaces). You take your shoes off and walk through the stream in the tunnel in a queue. This tunnel is what connects the green lake at the start of the walk to all seven springs.

Much like Rodini Park, you may also hear the peacock calls and if you’re lucky you will spot one in the wild here.

6. Prophetes Elias

Another pine forest, but this one is named after the Prophet Elias as it is his monastery that looks over the park from the peak of the nearby mountain. There is a circular walk that leads through the beautiful stone archway and takes you inside the walled monastery and up to the view point that is over 2,600 feet high. There are also cafes and restaurants up here which allow you to sit and enjoy the views of the sea while enjoying a drink or snack.

Unlike the Valley of the Butterflies, the Prophetes Elias is best to visit between April and May. While the butterflies are at their busiest in the summer months, the wild plants that flower here are at their most beautiful in the springtime. The plants are rare and do best at high altitudes, which is what makes Prophetes Elias the perfect environment.