Best Places to Enjoy Natural Beauty on Rhodes
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The island of Rhodes is one of the most unique places that you can visit in Greece. Part of the reason for this is because the history is so unique. While it does have remnants of an ancient past, there was also a strong Medieval presence here, since the Knight’s of Saint John were
headquartered here during the Medieval Era of Europe.
Besides that, it is also a physically beautiful island, and this beauty extends beyond the beaches. Although some of the best beaches in Greece can be found here, there are other sites to see that are just as spectacular. Here’s a look at some of the best natural places to visit in Greece:
Butterfly Valley
This unique spot near the village of Theologos is just as magical as its name suggests. With its river, waterfalls, and lush vegetation, the valley is a great spot to visit at any time of the year. It’s during the spring and fall, however, that the butterfly migration really brings the area to life.
Having developed as caterpillars by the Mediterranean during the rainy season, the quadripunctaria poda butterflies emerge from their cocoons and descend on the valley in May every year. Their color and vibrancy among the already-gorgeous landscape is truly a sight to behold.
Kalithea Springs
These springs have been acclaimed for their therapeutic properties since the times of the Ancient Greeks. People descended on the area to enjoy the water’s supposed benefits on such disparate ailments as arthritis and diabetes. In the early twentieth century, the Italian government conducted studies and constructed spa facilities.
Unfortunately, these once-beautiful buildings slowly fell into disrepair. In 2007, local authorities took it upon themselves to refurbish the crumbling infrastructure. These efforts culminated in a full restoration, producing the current attraction that tourists reliably enjoy.
Rodini Park
Located in the middle of the city of Rhodes, Rodini Park offers ethereal natural beauty in an urban environment. Once inside the park, you’ll completely forget about the city streets outside. With its meandering river, picturesque bridges, and wandering peacocks, the park seems straight out of an impressionist painting. It also boats a fascinating history, with Julius Cesar said to have been a one-time visitor.
Seven Springs
If tranquility and romance are what brought you to Greece, then you can’t pass up this beautiful site that’s often referred to as “Epta Piges.” Situated between Colymbia and Archipolis, the springs are surrounded by lush, green woodlands. With the tinkle of the water and the pure forest air, you’re likely to imagine mythical woodland creatures dancing about in the undergrowth.
Walking paths take visitors through the wooded gorge, past the springs, and around the man-made lake (created by the Italians to provide irrigation for Colymbia). The water from the springs is also cool and delicious, and first-time visitors would be well-advised to give it a taste.
Kritinia Castle
Also called Kastellos, this impressive structure rises above the tiny village of Kritinia. It was constructed in 1472 to provide protection against Ottoman maritime invaders. The building is now best classified as “ruins,” and yet it still proves an impressive monument to behold. Its massive stone wall rises stoically from the green countryside, while the parapets seem to climb the small hill at their base. As far as photo opportunities go, it doesn’t get much better in all the island of Rhodes.
While in Rhodes, you won’t want tom its the chance to visit these gorgeous places!
Categorized in: About Rhodes Island, Greece, Greek Travel Guide
This post was written by Greek Boston
