Table of Contents
Rhodes, an enchanting island in Greece, is blessed with a blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and picturesque villages. Exploring this captivating island by car enriches the travel experience, offering flexibility and the opportunity to discover hidden gems off the beaten path. Travelling by car allows you to admire the island’s diverse landscapes while indulging in its serene ambience. From panoramic sea views along the east coast to the lush greenery in the south, these top 5 scenic drives in Rhodes are not only routes, but also journeys steeped in beauty, charm, and history. Buckle up and prepare yourself for an unforgettable road trip across Rhodes.
Why Choose a Rental Car for Scenic Drives?
Choosing a car hire in Rhodes for your scenic drives gives you the liberty to explore the mesmerising landscapes at your own pace. You are not confined by the rigid itineraries of group tours or the constraints of public transport, granting a sense of freedom that enhances your travel experience. With a rental car, you can spontaneously stop at any enticing sight or take detours into the charming villages that you come across.
Moreover, car hire services in Greece are renowned for their extensive fleets, including everything from compact cars for solo travellers or couples to spacious vehicles for families or groups. This flexibility in choice allows you to select a car that fits your specific needs and enhances your comfort during the trip.
Most importantly, a car hire in Rhodes empowers you to discover the island’s lesser-known treasures that are inaccessible by standard tour buses or public transport. From secluded beaches to ancient ruins nestled in the countryside, you have the freedom to delve into the rich tapestry of Rhodes’ history and culture.
In summary, the benefits of opting for car hire services for your scenic drives in Rhodes are manifold, promising an enriching and unforgettable journey steeped in beauty and discovery.
Scenic Drive 1: Rhodes Town to Lindos
The first scenic drive you should embark on with your car hire in Rhodes is the journey from Rhodes Town to Lindos. Beginning at the northern tip of the island, you will traverse the picturesque east coast, offering expansive and captivating views of the shimmering Aegean Sea. As you journey southward, the road meanders along the coastline, affording unmatched views of the azure sea contrasted against a backdrop of rising hills and lush greenery.
Along the way, you may choose to stop and dip your toes in the turquoise waters of Tsambika beach, or take a leisurely stroll through the charming village of Afandou. The scenic drive culminates in the stunning town of Lindos, where white-washed houses cascade down the hillside towards an inviting sandy bay. Lindos is home to the ancient Acropolis, which stands majestically on a hill overlooking the town and sea, presenting a scene of breathtaking beauty and historical significance.
This scenic drive from Rhodes Town to Lindos is a journey filled with natural beauty, historical landmarks, and charming Greek island life. It encapsulates the essence of Rhodes and is a testament to the enriching experiences that await when you choose a car hire service for your exploration. Whether it’s the awe-inspiring views of the Aegean Sea or the enchanting allure of Lindos, this scenic drive is sure to leave an indelible impression on your memory of Rhodes.
Scenic Drive 2: The Valley of Butterflies to Ancient Kamiros
Embarking on your second scenic drive with your car hire in Rhodes, you’ll experience a thrilling journey from the Valley of Butterflies to Ancient Kamiros. This route showcases the wild beauty of the island, with the road hugging the coastline and offering striking views of the waves crashing against the rugged cliff edges.
The drive begins at the Valley of Butterflies, an ecological park famous for its seasonal population of Jersey Tiger Moths. The Valley, with its tranquil streams and shaded walkways, is a delightful retreat from the summer sun. As you traverse this natural haven, you’ll be surrounded by the gentle fluttering of wings and the calming sounds of nature.
Leaving the Valley behind, your journey continues towards Ancient Kamiros on the western coast of Rhodes. This is one of the three ancient cities of Rhodes and it offers a remarkable glimpse into the island’s historical past, with its well-preserved streets, buildings, and water system. The city, overlooked by a hilltop acropolis, sits in stark contrast to the azure sea that stretches beyond the horizon.
This scenic drive encapsulates the diverse beauty of Rhodes, combining the thrill of coastal driving, the tranquillity of the Valley of Butterflies, and the historical allure of Ancient Kamiros. With the freedom afforded by a car hire, you’re able to immerse yourself in the diverse landscapes and rich history of this captivating island, making it a truly memorable journey.
Scenic Drive 3: Rhodes Town to Prasonisi
Your next must-do scenic drive with your car hire in Rhodes is the journey from Rhodes Town to the island’s southernmost point, Prasonisi. This route offers a fascinating transition from the bustling urban life of Rhodes Town to the serene, unspoilt nature of the southern landscapes. Initially, you will navigate through the east coast where the glittering Aegean Sea captivates with its playful waves. As you head further south, the landscape becomes more rugged and untamed, reflecting the primal beauty of Rhodes.
Prasonisi is a unique destination, renowned for its geographical peculiarity. Here, the azure waters of the Aegean and the Mediterranean seas meet, creating a remarkable spectacle. This point, only accessible by car, is a sandy peninsula that connects to the main island through a narrow strip of land which, at times, is covered by water, transforming Prasonisi into an island.
This scenic drive encapsulates the essence of Rhodes, its diverse landscape and the unparalleled beauty where two seas merge. With your car hire, you can witness this splendid natural phenomenon at your own pace, savouring the moments of tranquillity at Prasonisi and the exhilarating drive that takes you there. This journey, from Rhodes Town to Prasonisi, is a testament to the remarkable experiences that a car hire in Rhodes can provide, promising an unforgettable journey filled with breathtaking views and unique natural wonders.
Scenic Drive 4: Seven Springs (Epta Piges) to Tsambika Monastery
Your fourth scenic drive, with your car hire in Rhodes, will take you from the enchanting Seven Springs to the magnificent Tsambika Monastery. Seven Springs, known as Epta Piges in Greek, is a lush oasis, cradled by a dense forest, with a network of springs weaving a charming natural tableau. The route from Seven Springs to Tsambika Monastery is a verdant delight, with the road flanked by a thick blanket of greenery that underscores the untamed beauty of Rhodes.
As you drive, every turn reveals staggering landscapes that capture the island’s inherent charm and tranquillity. Reaching Tsambika Monastery, nestled atop a hill, you are rewarded with a panoramic view that is nothing short of breathtaking. The monastery overlooks a vast expanse of the Aegean Sea, merging with the cerulean sky at the horizon, while the green hills roll out a carpet beneath. An iconic landmark, Tsambika Monastery is a serene sanctuary that radiates a divine aura, enhanced by the phenomenal vistas it offers.
This scenic drive combines the lushness of Seven Springs, the sanctity of Tsambika Monastery, and the exhilaration of traversing the Rhodes countryside with your car hire. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a seeker of serenity, this journey offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Rhodes’ rich natural and spiritual heritage, making it an essential addition to your scenic drives bucket list.
Scenic Drive 5: Rhodes Town to Monolithos Castle
Your fifth scenic drive, with your car hire in Rhodes, takes you from the bustling Rhodes Town to the majestic Monolithos Castle on the island’s west coast. The drive unfolds as a splendid tapestry of changing landscapes, transitioning from the lively urban atmosphere to the serene rural beauty and untamed coastal charm of the western region. The route courses through quaint villages, verdant valleys, and alongside azure waves, offering an enriching journey through the heart of Rhodes.
Monolithos Castle, perched high upon a 100-metre rock, is a remarkable destination. As you manoeuvre your way up the winding road, each turn offers a new, breathtaking view of the surrounding seascape and rugged terrain. Once at the castle, the panorama is nothing short of spectacular. The azure sea stretches infinitely, meeting the sky at the horizon, while the green, mountainous terrain of Rhodes sprawls beneath, presenting a stunning contrast that encapsulates the unique allure of the island.
This scenic drive, with your car hire in Rhodes, combines the elements of thrilling adventure and serene beauty. The journey to Monolithos Castle offers you an opportunity to experience the diverse landscapes of Rhodes, from its bustling town centre to its serene coastline and the imposing beauty of the Monolithos Castle, making it an unmissable addition to your scenic drive itinerary.
Rhodes offers an array of scenic drives that reveal the island’s rich historical heritage, diverse landscapes, and stunning sea vistas. Embarking on these journeys – from Rhodes Town to Ancient Kamiros, Prasonisi, and Monolithos Castle, or between the Seven Springs and Tsambika Monastery – allows you to appreciate the island’s unique allure. Each route, accessible via a car hire, presents a unique tapestry of experiences, from the tranquillity of Prasonisi where two seas meet, to the breathtaking views from Monolithos Castle. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or a seeker of serene landscapes, these scenic drives offer a captivating exploration of Rhodes. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in these unforgettable journeys, each promising an enriching insight into the island’s splendour.
