7 quiet places in Rhodes

1. Vlycha Bay

If you’re seeking a chilled-out hideaway that’s within easy reach of the island’s sights and noisier delights, this low-key resort just a few kilometres south of Lindos on Rhodes’ eastern shoreline is the perfect choice.

Protected from strong winds that batter other parts of the coast, Vlycha’s horseshoe-shaped beach, scattered with silky sand and small pebbles and lapped by aquamarine seas, is blissfully serene. With several supermarkets and a handful of family-run tavernas within easy strolling distance, there’s no need to leave this laidback seaside haven.

Where to stay in Vlycha Bay

There are a handful of hotels, villas and apartments clustered around Vlycha’s picturesque bay. For a luxurious hideaway pick three-bed Villa Akrotiri, which has a private pool and spectacular sea views. Travellers on a budget will prefer to rent one of Vlycha Beach’s clean, comfortable studios close to the seafront.

2. Gennadi

With its eight glorious kilometres (5 miles) of golden sand beach lapped by pristine waters, and narrow vine-shaded alleys lined with quirky craft shops and tavernas, this off-the-radar resort on Rhodes’ less-developed south-eastern coast is ideal for peace-seekers.

Like all the best out-of-the-way places, facilities are limited here so bring plenty of water and suntan lotion if you plan to spend your days lazing on Gennadi’s stunning beach.

Where to stay in Gennadi

Although there are several larger resorts in Gennadi, most of the accommodation is a lot more low-key. If you’re seeking a beachfront spa haven with a focus on wellness, Gennadi Grand Resort is sure to fit the bill. Gennadi Gardens’ small but comfortable rooms overlooking a circular pool are a better match for cost-conscious travellers.

3. Apollona

Named for God of Light Apollon, this lost-in-the-past mountain hamlet some 43km (26 miles) southwest of Rhodes Town perches on a hill surrounded by olive groves and vines, whose grapes are used to make the island’s celebrated wines.

Hikers flock to this faraway hill town to trek along a maze of trails leading to the surrounding villages, while food lovers come to enjoy local treats, including slow-cooked beef stew stifado, in Apollona’s half-dozen traditional tavernas.

Where to stay in Apollona

There aren’t any luxury resorts in this rural mountain village, and that’s all part of Apollona’s timeless charm.

For a big slice of local life along with lashings of modern comforts stay at Areti’s Traditional Houses, a cluster of beautifully renovated stone rooms decked out with antique fixtures and fittings. For a cheaper option that’s even further off the beaten track make a beeline for Hotel Nymph in the tiny village of Salakos next door, where cosy rooms have iron bedsteads, floral décor and panoramic views of Prophetis Ilias mountain.

4. Koskinou

With its minuscule main square hemmed in by traditional kafenions, a folklore museum showcasing local crafts and narrow lanes lined with brightly painted houses, Koskinou seems far removed from the hustle of the island’s larger resorts. However, it still enjoys the best of all worlds – this peaceful hamlet is actually only a ten-minute drive from Rhodes Town.

Where to stay in Koskinou

There are only a few guesthouses and small hotels dotting Koskinou’s winding alleys. Victoria Traditional House at the heart of the village has light-filled modern apartments overlooking a private bougainvillea-shaded courtyard. Helios Rhodos’ snug self-catering apartments with pretty garden views are an excellent budget option.

5. Embonas

High in the foothills of the Attavyros mountains and surrounded by a sea of vines, the remote village of Embonas is the epicentre of wine production on the island, and there are plenty of family-run wineries where you can sip and sample.

Apart from delicious wines, this sleepy village is also famed for its artisans producing colourful embroidery, which is sold in the village shops.

Where to stay in Embonas

When it comes to serene accommodation, there’s plenty of choice in this far-flung spot. Perched in solitary splendour on the pine-furred mountain slopes, Ataviros hotel’s stone-built rooms clustered around a pretty pool and a restaurant serving traditional treats is one of the more comfortable alternatives, while self-catering apartment at Mannas House in the centre of the village are perfect for cheaper stays.

6. Lardos

Only 2km (1.2 miles) from a string of beautiful beaches, lovely Lardos, curled like a snail around its tree-shaded central square, is a peaceful alternative to nearby Lindos, with its cruise ship tourists and packed cafes.

With tavernas serving fried chickpea and mint pitaroudia rissoles, baked sausage spetsofai and other local treats, food is also a big lure here.

Where to say in Lardos

The big resort hotels might be a few kilometres away, but you’ll only find boutique hotels and family-owned accommodation in Lardos.

Overlooking a plant-filled courtyard surrounding a private swimming pool Mariann Premium suites is an excellent luxury option. Travellers counting the pennies will prefer to stay in one of Valantas Garden’s modern self-catering apartments near the centre of the village.

7. Stegna

Just 32km (20 miles) south of Rhodes Town, Stegna is mainly favoured by locals who come here to swim in sparkling waters, lounge beneath palm-frond parasols on the remote resort’s silk sand beach or enjoy brine-fresh seafood in a handful of tavernas near the seafront.

Reached via a zig-zagging road from the hilltop village of Archangelos, this beach retreat on the island’s wild southern coast is perfect for families and couples looking for a peaceful base to spend their holidays.

Where to stay in Stegna

Laidback is the order of the day here, so don’t expect big resorts. Gazing over the sparkling bay, Stegna Akti Luxury Suites’ dozen plush rooms with panoramic sea views are perfect for a pampered stay. Back from the beach, Anastasia Studio’s double rooms with balconies and hot tubs are best if you’re on a budget.