Rhodes-around the island by bike

Travel to the Island of Rhodes and connect with an included transfer from the airport to your first hotel. Time permitting, you can jump right in and pedal off on an afternoon cycling circuit round town and out to the beach.

The week begins with a loop from remote Kalavarda on the island’s sparsely populated northwest coast. Cycling the coast road, your route hugs the seashore on its way to regal remains at the former city-state of Kamiros. Pause for a visit now or come back to the ruins this afternoon.

Mandriko’s authentic ‘kafenion’ makes an ideal spot for a coffee break and don’t forget to peek in at the charming church next door. Pedalling up and over a low hill, you roll down into the small fishing port at Skala Kamiros where ferries depart for the island of Chalki. From Skala you do a loop ride to the medieval fortress of Kritinia and snap a few photos from atop its immense walls. The panorama is far-reaching, with mind-blowing vistas of the Island of Chalki and its uninhabited neighbours. Catch a tailwind as you circle back to Kalavarda, with the sun warming your back and stop off at your choice of taverns on four different beaches.

Challange: 37 km / 23 mi, 440 m ascent, 440 m descent

Head north and parallel the coastline to reach the unique colourful houses of Fanes, then ride inland to the Valley of Petaloudes (Greek for butterflies). This tiny paradise fills a lush green gorge with thousands of summer butterflies (June-September). Cycling with shade in cool forests, you come upon Maritsa and Pastida further north, two spots with excellent ‘tavernas’. Ride into Rhodes old city centre via an ancient gateway and meander along medieval lanes to your hotel situated within the historic city walls.

Challenge: 43 km / 26,5 mi, 385 m ascent, 385 m descent

Stretch your legs in a different way on a wonderful walking tour of Rhodes ancient city centre, chock full of highlights, hidden corners and secret surprises. Or opt for a trip to the painfully picturesque island of Symi and cycle a tremendous 22 km / 13,5 mi traverse from the south coast Monastery of Panormitis across the entire island to its capital. Then revel in late afternoon light on the ferry back to Rhodes.

Challenge: 6 km / 3,5 mi on foot or 23 km / 14,5 mi by bike 

Take off along the island’s eastern coast, stopping at the marvellously restored ancient Turkish baths of Kalithea. Pedal along the peaceful beachfront in Afandou toward spectaculary situated Monastery of Tsambika, built at the top of a 300-metre-high cliff. Today’s jaunt ends in the lively Greek town of Archangellos.

Challenge: 39 km / 24 mi, 375 m ascent, 200 m descent

Cycle 3km / 2 mi to Stegna Beach and relax all day at the seaside or opt to visit Lindos by bike or public bus. This exquisite little village of white cubist houses sits elegantly at the foot of a vertical rockface crowned by the ancient Acropolis of Lindos. Two small ports nestle on either side of the village, ideal protection in ancient times, ideal photo shoot for modern days! Park your bike and inspect the Acropolis on foot, wandering past perfect columns, remains of ancient temples standing the test of time inside the medieval fortress.

Challenge: 52 km / 32,5 mi, 470 m ascent, 470 m descent

Ride first to the secret forest enclave at Epta Piges, with its seven springs, tempting tavern and exotic peacocks. A verdant valley leads up to the Monastery of Agios Nektarios with its refreshing spring water and giant plane tree. Next up is Eleousa, a remarkable ghost of a village built some 80 years ago by Italians, where many abandoned buildings are now sadly in poor repair. Glide along a great road running mountain slopes to Fountoukli, the oldest Byzantine chapel on Rhodes, then roll downhill toward the west coast passing Dimilia, the chapel-cave at Silas and Soroni as you pedal the coast to Kalavarda.

Challenge: 40 km / 25 mi, 500 m ascent, 600 m descent

Your self-guided cycling adventure comes to an end today with a transfer to the airport and departure from Rhodes. If you have a late flight, enjoy the use of your rental bike today on a cycling route from Kalavarda.