Here we thought we’d focus on the exploring the “west coast” of Rhodes. The east is generally the most popular in terms of tourism which means the west is much quieter and unspoilt, yet equally as beautiful (if not slightly more so!)
Ancient Ruins Of Kameiros
Just a few minutes drive or a 10 minute bike ride on the coastal road heading south from The Citrus House is the amazing ruins of Kameiros. One of the three large Doric cities of the island, which united with Ialyssos and Lindos in the 5th century B.C. to create the powerful city – state of Rhodes.
Kameiros has been often compared to Pompeii, something which is not correct since Kameiros did not fall into decline because of a natural disaster. Its decline, like the decline of Ialyssos, was the result of the gradual abandonment by its residents. In 1929 archaeologists localised the ruins of the ancient city, and the excavations which brought it back to life continued till the end of World War II.
Entrance to the ruins is reasonably priced and if you happen to be visiting out of season you may even find it is free of charge. I am also told that students who hold a student card will receive discounted prices. Click here for images of the ruins.
Mandriko Harbour
A 15 minute drive south from the house past Kamerios is the lovely little fishing port of Mandriko (not to be mistaken with Mandraki, which is the port in Rhodes Town). This quaint little port has several sleepy tavernas serving great food, wine, coffees and juices. You can sit and watch the fisherman land their catch and the larger boats bringing in various materials from the neighbouring islands.
From May to October you can take day trips from here to the island of Halki. A stunning little island that will not disappoint!
Kritinia Castle
A little further down the West Coast is the beautiful Kitrinia Castle. A 20 minute drive from the house, through beautiful scenery you’ll spot the castle sat high on the hill side (430ft to be precise) overlooking the Aegean Sea. It’s not too much of a climb to enter the castle and you won’t be disappointed by the views. The castle was built by the Knights of St John, originally on three levels with each level assigned to a different Grand Master. It is interesting to wander around and the photo opportunities are stunning. Once you’ve finished exploring you can enjoy the views with a coffee and an ice cream at the new café perched on the cliff top.
Siena
Famous for its honey and local drink “sumo” this beautiful little village is great for a day away from the beach to buy local souvenirs. It is a little bit of a tourist hotspot and at certain times of the day coach tours arrive. If you time it right (early morning or later afternoon) you can enjoy the sights to yourself. Friendly locals will often let you try before you buy but be warned the alcohol is very strong! There are plenty of tavernas and a pretty little square next to a gorgeous church where you can enjoy some refreshments.
Monolithos
Beautiful whitewashed courtyards with geraniums, stone houses with tile roofs looking out over the waves. The village itself is small and well-kept, built in the form of an amphitheatre with just a few small tavernas. The main attraction of the village is the mediaeval castle, standing among the pines on the great outcrop of an isolated rock from which the name Monolithos (lonely rock) is derived.
You can leave your car below the castle and a ten-minute walk will bring you to the summit, within the castle walls stands the church of Agios Panteleimon. Bellow the castle you will find an attractive stone building housing a small café. The road leads on to Fourni, the pebble beach at Monolithos.
Prassoni
Not strictly on the west coast, more like the south, however it’s well worth a visit. It is a good one hour drive from the house and if travelling with children we’d suggest breaking up the journey with one or two stops along the way as the road can be a little bendy and at times feels endless (although lovely scenery for the adults to look at).
You won’t be disappointed when you arrive; this wonderful beach is where the two seas meet. When the tide is low you can walk on the sand between them and have the Mediterranean on your left and the Aegean Sea on the right. Famous for its kite surfing there are bars and water sports available. It’s a nice place to plan a full day on the beach.
