Rhodes is the largest and historically most important of Greece’s Dodecanese Islands.
According to Greek mythology, the island was presented by Zeus to Helios, the God of the Sun. He was so impressed by its beauty that he blessed the island with endless sunshine, obviously well within his powers, which means that Rhodes enjoys over 300 days of sunshine a year.
And there’s no doubting that it’s a beautiful island. Sparkling sapphire seas lap numerous sandy beaches, and dramatic hillscapes and lush forested valleys line the coastline and fertile interiors.
Our destination on the island’s east coast is Lindos Village Resort & Spa, less than an hour’s drive from the airport. Cleverly constructed on top of the hill to make the most of the stunning bay and Aegean Sea views, Lindos Village Resort & Spa is adults-only and offers an ultra all-inclusive package. So that’s all the potential stresses out of the way. The vast and elegant marble lobby with sea views in the distance and the warmest of Greek smiles made for the perfect welcome.
Our cool and comfortable room was at the top of the resort, appropriately decorated in blue and white, with a large balcony and more stunning views of the rugged hillside, picturesque bay and turquoise ocean. There’s an invitingly sparkling pool downstairs with sun loungers and a bar serving refreshing cocktails and light bites. And the beach is just a short golf cart ride away with its dedicated loungers and balmy seas, perfect for a refreshing dip. The tranquillity of the Evriatiki spa is the ideal spot for a rejuvenating massage or uplifting facial.
And then there’s the food. Lindos Village is gastronomic heaven with its range of restaurants and bars celebrating the dishes of Rhodes, Greece and the Mediterranean, as well as a delightful Asian offering. Ambrosia Main Restaurant serves buffet-style international dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Pomodoro & Basilko showcases the region’s culinary heritage with the freshest fish and locally sourced products bursting with flavour. At night Ginger Root opens poolside with a menu offering a gastronomic journey of discovery around Asia. There’s also Gia Ouzaki for sharing-style Greek eating, a coffee shop, and the main bar, which sits at the heart of the resort. Spoilt for choice – and don’t forget it’s all-inclusive.
If you can tear yourself away from that Lindos Village Resort & Spa all-inclusiveness (and you really should), there’s so much to explore on the island. The picture-perfect town of Lindos is a short drive away with its white flat-roofed houses climbing the slopes from the golden sandy beach of the turquoise bay. The beautifully preserved Acropolis of Lindos, which dates back to the 6th century BC, dominates the skyline, keeping a watchful eye on the winding cobbled streets below. It’s worth a visit for its ancient beauty and stunning panoramic views – and to absorb centuries of human history.
The town is packed with charming shops selling an incredible array of jewellery, clothes and irresistible mementoes. There seem to be rooftop bars around every corner, and there’s a wide selection of restaurants to savour the local flavours in the town and along the beach. Boat trips leave from along the pier. Take to the sea for a different island perspective and the chance to snorkel and swim in the crystal clear sea. With its balmy ocean waves, sweet summery air and striking landscapes, the dazzling beauty of Rhodes is all around. No wonder Helios fell instantly in love.
Words By Sandy Cadiz-Smith
