Rhodes:Kamiros,Kritinia,Embona,Mt Pr. Ilias & Kallithea tour

If you’re eyeing a day to soak up Rhodes’ charm beyond the busy tourist spots, this Rhodes: Kamiros, Kritinia, Embona, Mt Pr. Ilias & Kallithea tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of the island’s history, landscape, and local flavors. It’s a guided experience that’s ideal if you prefer exploring with some structure but still enjoy a laid-back pace.

What we love about this tour is how it combines stunning vistas with cultural insights — visiting ancient castles, Byzantine monasteries, and tasting local wines. Plus, the inclusion of a relaxing swim at Kallithea Springs makes it a pretty complete day out. The only thing to consider is that it’s a full 8-hour itinerary, so it’s best if you’re prepared for a long, active day.

This trip might not be perfect if you’re after a leisurely, unstructured day, but it’s great for history buffs, couples, or anyone wanting a taste of Rhodes’ scenic and cultural gems. If you like guided tours that hit multiple highlights without the hassle of planning, this could be a good pick.

Key Points

• A balanced mix of cultural visits, scenic views, and relaxation in one day
• Small group dynamics ensure more personalized attention and a comfortable experience
• Includes wine and olive oil tastings, providing a taste of local flavors
• Beautiful stops like Kritinia Castle and Kallithea Springs are highlights
• Good value for the price, considering the number of stops and inclusions
• Most travelers find the guide knowledgeable and engaging, adding depth to the experience

The Lowdown on the Tour

This Rhodes tour offers a practical way to see a wide swath of the island without the need to organize transport or worry about logistics. For around $49.29 per person, you get an approximately 8-hour adventure that covers some of the most scenic and historically significant spots on the island. What makes this tour stand out is its small group setting—usually capped at 19 travelers—which tends to make the experience more intimate and flexible.

Transportation & Group Size

Traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll be part of a small, friendly group. This setup is a definite advantage—it’s less crowded than large buses and allows for a more relaxed, conversational atmosphere. The driver, Mihalis, gets good reviews for his capability and friendly manner, which can make a difference on a long day.

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off early at 8:30 am, so be ready for an early start that allows you to maximize your day. The first stop is Kritinia Castle, perched about 131 meters above the village with sweeping views of the Aegean Sea and nearby islands. Built in the 16th century, it’s a site that combines history with a fantastic backdrop. It’s a quick stop—about 40 minutes—so you’ll get your fill of panoramic photos without feeling rushed.

Next, you’ll head into the heart of local life with a visit to Embonas village for wine and olive oil tastings. Here, you’ll get to sample a variety of wines—dry, semi-dry, sweet, and rosé—made by small family producers. As one reviewer pointed out, the range of local wines, including the famous Muscat dessert wine, offers a true taste of Rhodes. The tasting is free, and the setting in this picturesque village makes it easy to imagine how locals have enjoyed these flavors for generations.

Following that, a stop at Profitis Ilias, a small Italian-built hotel surrounded by pine, cedar, and oak trees. Originally constructed in 1929 under Italian occupation, it now serves as a scenic spot for photos or a quick coffee break. Its history adds a touch of European charm to your day, and the peaceful forest setting provides a welcome breather.

The journey continues to Agios Nikolaos Fountoukli, a 14th-century Byzantine monastery nestled in a bucolic wooded area. This religious site, free of charge, offers a serene space to reflect and appreciate the island’s ecclesiastical architecture—another highlight for those interested in history and architecture.

The tour then makes a lunch stop in the village of Eleousa. You have about an hour to choose from local dishes at a nearby restaurant—an excellent chance to try regional cuisine and relax amid the greenery. Travelers mentioned this as a good-value stop, giving you flexibility in your meal choices.

The next stop is Agios Nektarios Monastery, located near Arhipoli. It’s a magnificent terracotta building, revered for housing relics of Saint Nektarios. Many visitors, including those who are spiritual, find this site meaningful, especially if they want to learn about recent saints and local religious practices.

Finally, the tour concludes with a visit to Kallithea Springs, just 9 km from Rhodes city. Known since antiquity for its thermal springs, the area was extensively renovated and now offers a beautiful spot for a swim and relaxation. Although admission to the springs isn’t included, it’s worth the visit for its historical significance and beauty, especially if you enjoy waters with reputed healing properties.

What the Reviews Say

Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who add richness to the experience. One reviewer called the guide “amazing” and appreciated the driver, noting that the guide’s information made the day much more enjoyable. Others appreciated the spectacular views, especially from Kritinia Castle and the scenic spots along the way.

The tour’s value was highlighted by those who felt the stops were well-chosen—balancing cultural sites with scenic beauty and leisure. The wine and olive oil tastings in Embona are a favorite, with one reviewer describing the local wines as “great” and the variety as impressive. The inclusion of a swim at Kallithea Springs was seen as a perfect way to unwind after hours of sightseeing.

Some minor hiccups, like a bus breakdown, didn’t seem to detract significantly from the overall experience, as the team responded quickly to keep the day on track.

Practical Considerations

• The price point makes it accessible for many, offering a lot of value given the multiple stops and sights.
• The 8-hour duration is suitable for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and walking.
• Pickup is offered, which simplifies logistics—just make sure you’re aware of the start time at 8:30 am.
• The tour is most suited for travelers who enjoy learning about history, savoring local flavors, and seeing diverse landscapes without the stress of planning each stop.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This experience is ideal if you want to avoid the hassle of planning your own route but still want a diverse, meaningful day on Rhodes. It suits those who appreciate history, scenic views, and local food and drink. It’s a good choice for couples, small groups, or curious travelers who value engaging guides.

If you’re after a relaxed, active day that mixes cultural discovery with some leisure, this tour ticks those boxes. However, if you’re looking for a leisurely, unstructured day or traveling with very young children, it might be worth considering how the long hours and scheduled stops fit your style.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Most stops involve some walking or standing, and the vehicle transport is comfortable, but those with mobility challenges should consider the walking involved at sites like Kritinia Castle and the monastery.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included. There’s a one-hour free time in Eleousa to dine at a local restaurant and choose from regional dishes.

Can I bring children on this tour?
While it’s not specifically geared toward children, the moderate pace and engaging stops may suit families with older kids interested in history and scenery. Check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

What’s the best way to dress?
Comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes for walking, and sun protection are recommended. It’s a full-day tour, so layers and hydration are key.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The tour details don’t specify accessibility features, so it’s safer to contact the provider directly if you need accommodations.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book 29 days ahead, indicating it’s a popular choice, especially in peak season.

Are the sites included in the admission fee?
Most sites are free to visit, but the springs at Kallithea have an admission fee, which is not included.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I customize the stops?
The itinerary is fixed, but small group tours sometimes allow slight adjustments—check with the provider if you have special requests.

Final Thoughts

This Rhodes tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of the island’s cultural, natural, and culinary highlights. It’s great for those who want to see a lot without the stress of organizing multiple appointments or transport. The combination of historical sites like Kritinia Castle and Agios Nektarios, along with scenic drives, local wine tastings, and a relaxing swim, makes for a satisfying day out.

If you’re someone who values knowledgeable guides, a small-group atmosphere, and a blend of history and leisure, this tour will serve you well. While it’s not a laid-back, slow-paced experience, for many, the breadth of sights and the quality of the stops justify the time investment.

For travelers eager to explore Rhodes in a structured, yet flexible way, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable option. Just pack your curiosity, some comfortable shoes, and your swimwear if you want to unwind at Kallithea Springs.

Note: Always check current details and your specific needs with the tour provider before booking.