Things to do in

Salakos

Begin in the quaint agricultural village of Salakos, nestled in the foothills of the mountain but only a short way from the sea. Choose to meet in the village or to be picked up from your accommodation in Rhodes. Take the gradual incline on a well maintained path up to the mountain. Walk in shade of ilex, pine, and olive trees. Bask in the magnificent views of the Aegean Sea, the coastline of Turkey, and some of the nearby islands. Combine stunning views, exercise, fresh air, and some history provided by your expert guide. At the top, experience the calm of a quiet picnic area and see the two famous Italian alpine hotels from 1932 called Elafos and Elafina. Visit Villa de Vecci, the house of the former Italian governor of Rhodes and the Byzantine church Profitis Elias. Refresh yourself with a rest and a snack before starting the descent back to Salakos.

Start your Profitis Ilias hike of in the charming village of Salakos. Follow along an old mule track to a garden that used to belong to General De Vecchi an Italian Governor of Rhodes from between 1936-1940, whose villa now lies abandoned. Cross the garden toward two hotels in Tyrolean style and climb to the top of the mountain where you will have the chance to take photos of the spectacular view. Walk on a path shaded by dense cypress trees and Aleppo pines. Pass by the majestic villa and its chapel on your way down the mountain and back to Salakos.Try some traditional snacks along the way.