Hidden Gems of Rhodes: Beyond the Tourist Trail

Everyone knows about the medieval Old Town, Lindos, and Faliraki. But Rhodes is a big island—almost a country in itself—and packed with lesser-known spots that most tourists never reach. If you’re the kind of traveler who wants more than the standard photo ops, this guide is for you.

Here are Rhodes’ best hidden gems—quiet villages, secret beaches, local hangouts, and nature escapes where the island’s soul comes alive.

Castle of Asklipio

Tucked away in the hills above Kiotari, the Castle of Asklipio is a crumbling Byzantine fortress with serious panoramic views. Hardly anyone makes the short drive up here, but it’s worth it for the photo ops alone—and the eerie, peaceful vibe of a castle that time forgot.

Tip: Combine this with a visit to the tiny village of Asklipio, where you’ll find one of the oldest churches on the island and a surprisingly good folk museum.

Fourni Beach

Looking for a beach without sunbeds, crowds, or pumping music? Fourni Beach, on the island’s southwest coast, is as raw and beautiful as it gets. Surrounded by cliffs, it's got clear water, pebbled sand, and zero commercial build-up. You might even have it all to yourself.

Bring water, snacks, and shoes you can walk down in—there’s no shop or lifeguard here. Just nature, silence, and sea.

Laerma Village

High in the hills, Laerma is one of Rhodes' most authentic mountain villages. No souvenir shops, no tour buses—just a sleepy cluster of stone houses, traditional tavernas, and locals who’ll greet you with a nod or a glass of wine.

Nearby you’ll find the Monastery of Thari, surrounded by pine forest. It’s peaceful, beautifully preserved, and rarely crowded.

Profitis Ilias Forest & Abandoned Hotel

The inland forest around Profitis Ilias offers a completely different Rhodes—cool, green, and alpine. You’ll find hiking trails, picnic areas, and two mysterious abandoned buildings: Elafos and Elafina, once Italian luxury hotels from the 1920s.

The area feels like a forgotten mountain resort. Bring a jacket—even in summer, it’s noticeably cooler up here.

Plimmiri Beach

If you're heading south but want to skip the touristy beaches, Plimmiri is a long, wild stretch of sand with barely any development. There’s a beach bar at one end and a taverna up the road—but the real draw is the peaceful atmosphere and untouched vibe.

It’s great for long walks, stargazing, or just clearing your head. Ideal if you’ve had enough of beach clubs and umbrellas.

Embona: Wine, Meat & Mountains

Embona (or Emponas) is a mountain village famous for one thing: wine and meat. Come hungry. There are at least five solid tavernas serving grilled lamb, goat, and local red wines by the carafe. It’s also the heart of Rhodes’ small but proud wine scene, with wineries like Cair and Alexandris offering tastings.

Best enjoyed during lunch hours—dinner can be quiet, and much of the village closes early.

Kritinia Castle

Yes, Kritinia Castle is on some maps, but very few people time it right. If you visit early in the morning or just before sunset, you’ll likely have it to yourself. The views over the Aegean and Chalki island are spectacular, and the light at golden hour is unbeatable.

There’s also a café just below the castle that serves excellent fresh juice and meze with a view.

Apollona & The Local Life

Another hill village worth visiting, Apollona is small, quiet, and proudly traditional. You’ll find old men playing tavli (backgammon), homemade spoon sweets, and a mini folklore museum. Try salepi, a warm drink made from orchid root, or pick up handmade lace from one of the grandmothers.

Bee Museum of Rhodes

This might sound like a kid’s stop, but the Bee Museum, just outside Pastida, is actually fascinating. It shows how honey production has worked in Rhodes for centuries, and includes live hives behind glass, old equipment, and tasting stations. Great for a rainy day or to break up a beach-heavy itinerary.

Kalavarda Beach at Sunset

Most tourists overlook Kalavarda, a low-key beach near Ancient Kamiros. But locals know it’s one of the best sunset spots on the island. It’s often breezy, which keeps things cool, and you’ll usually find a kite-surfer or two adding flair to the skyline.

There’s also a small beachside taverna perfect for fresh fish and a chilled Mythos while the sky turns gold.

Tips for Finding Your Own Hidden Spots

• Talk to locals. Tavern owners, taxi drivers, and hotel staff will gladly point you toward spots they actually visit themselves.
• Rent a car. Most of these places are hard (or impossible) to reach without your own wheels.
• Go off-season. Even the main sites become hidden gems if you visit in late spring or early fall.

Rhodes may be a popular destination, but that doesn’t mean it’s overrun. Step away from the bus routes and the Instagram favorites, and you’ll find another side of the island—quieter, deeper, and infinitely more rewarding.