Rhodes: Butterfly Valley and Seven Springs Valley Day Trip

If you’re heading to Rhodes and looking for a way to connect with the island’s gorgeous outdoors, this Butterfly Valley and Seven Springs Valley day trip offers a solid mix of nature, scenery, and relaxed exploration. Though it’s not a full-on adventure trek, it hits the spot for travelers who want a taste of Rhodes’ lush landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines two of Rhodes’ best-known natural sites—the Butterfly Valley and Seven Springs—in one neat package. It’s a good way to see different environments, from the buzzing, butterfly-filled forests to tranquil mountain springs. Plus, the bus transportation makes it a relaxing way to see these spots without worrying about driving or navigating.

That said, a few things are worth considering. The paths in these parks are unpaved and uneven, so it’s not ideal if you have mobility issues or prefer a very leisurely stroll. Also, the butterfly sightings depend on the season—peak butterfly time is from late May to mid-September, so if you’re visiting outside those months, you might not see many. Still, even without the butterflies, many find the scenery, waterfalls, and fresh air enough to make it worth it.

This trip suits travelers who enjoy nature, good scenery, and don’t mind some walking. It’s especially appealing if you’re traveling on a budget but want a hassle-free way to explore some of Rhodes’ natural highlights.

Key Points

• Two in One: Visit both Butterfly Valley and Seven Springs on a single trip, saving time and effort.
• Flexibility: You get ample free time to explore, take photos, and relax at each site.
• Comfortable Transport: The tour includes round-trip transportation, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery.
• Seasonal Butterfly Sightings: Butterflies are most visible from late May to mid-September; outside these months, don’t expect the butterfly spectacle.
• Unpaved Trails: Paths are uneven and include some steps, so sturdy shoes are a must.
• Excellent Value: At around $30, it’s a budget-friendly way to see some of Rhodes’ natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Details of the Tour

How It Starts and Ends

The tour begins with a pickup at one of 41 possible locations across Rhodes, including hotels, resorts, and key points like the cruise port. Pickup times range roughly from 8:45 to 10:00 AM, depending on your hotel, which gives travelers flexibility. The ride to Butterfly Valley takes about 30 minutes, giving you a chance to settle in and enjoy the scenic drive.

When the day wraps up, you’ll be dropped off at the same spots you were collected from, so no worries about getting back on your own. This ease of transport is a definite plus, especially after a day of walking and sightseeing.

What to Expect at Butterfly Valley

Once you arrive at Valley of the Butterflies, you’ll have about 2 hours to explore on your own. The main draw here is, of course, the butterflies—Panaxia Quatripunktaria—which are most visible during the high season from late May to mid-September. If visiting during this time, you’ll walk along unpaved, rustic pathways beside the Pelekanos River, with butterflies fluttering around you—creating a spellbinding scene.

Many reviews mention how enchanting this place is, even if you don’t see butterflies—some travelers say they visited early or late in the season when the butterflies were fewer, but still enjoyed the walk and the waterfalls, bridges, and natural scenery. One reviewer noted that the walk can be challenging if you have walking difficulties, as the paths involve steps and uneven terrain.

While there’s no guide leading you through the valley, the free time allows you to wander at your own pace, take photos next to waterfalls and bridges, or visit the small natural history museum.

The Drive to Seven Springs

After leaving Butterfly Valley, you’ll enjoy a scenic 45-minute drive through Rhodes’ countryside to reach Seven Springs Valley. This part of the tour is relaxing and lets you soak in the lush greenery and mountain views, which many reviews highlight as a highlight.

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Exploring Seven Springs

Once at Seven Springs, you’ll have about 1 hour and 45 minutes to explore. The springs are known for their clear waters, surrounded by pines and plane trees—perfect for a peaceful stroll or just sitting back and enjoying the cool, fresh air. The site also offers an open-air café overlooking the springs, where you can grab a drink or snack.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can walk through a narrow tunnel leading to an artificial lake with a dam and waterfall. The tunnel adds a fun, slightly mysterious element to the visit, which many reviews rave about. The atmosphere here is tranquil, and it’s a perfect place to snap some photos of the natural beauty.

However, some reviews mention that due to the season or water levels, the lakes and waterfalls can be less impressive or dry. But the overall lushness and shade provided by the trees make it a calming spot.

Return Journey

After your time at Seven Springs, you’ll be driven back to your hotel. The entire trip lasts approximately 7 hours, including travel, free time, and stops. Many travelers find the pace just right—enough time to see everything without feeling rushed.

Why This Tour Brings Value

Considering the cost—around $30.46 per person—this tour offers a lot for the price. The transport, the chance to visit two top natural sites, and the free time to explore at your own pace make it a good deal. Plus, the reviews consistently praise the guides and drivers, with many mentioning how knowledgeable and friendly they are, which adds to the comfort of the experience.

While there’s no guide accompanying you through each site, the bus driver often shares interesting tidbits during transit, and the free time allows you to explore the sites as you like. The inclusion of a map of Rhodes’ nature sites is another handy feature, helping you get oriented.

The Experience of the Guides

One thing many reviews agree on is the quality of the drivers—friendly, helpful, and often providing extra stops or insights. For example, one reviewer mentioned a surprise stop between the main sites, which added an unexpected fun element. Having such local knowledge can turn a simple sightseeing day into a more engaging experience.

Food and Additional Costs

The tour fee doesn’t include entry tickets to Butterfly Valley (which cost around 3-6 euros depending on the season), nor food or drinks. The restaurant at Seven Springs provides a convenient spot for a meal, but if you’re picky or have dietary needs, consider bringing snacks or drinks along. Many reviewers recommend eating before the tour if possible, as the free time at Butterfly Valley is limited, and the restaurant at Seven Springs can get busy.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a straightforward, budget-friendly way to see some of Rhodes’ natural highlights, this Butterfly Valley and Seven Springs tour will serve you well. You’ll get plenty of beautiful scenery, a relaxing pace, and the chance to take some memorable photos in a genuine natural setting.

It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy walking and nature, don’t mind uneven paths, and want the convenience of transportation included. While it’s not a guided tour with detailed commentary, the friendly driver and the free exploration time compensate for that nicely.

That said, remember the seasonality—peak butterfly sightings happen between late May and mid-September—and plan accordingly if butterflies are your main reason for visiting. Outside that window, you’ll still enjoy lush scenery and calm spots, but the highlight of butterflies might be quieter.

This trip offers a genuine slice of Rhodes’ natural beauty at a reasonable price, making it a worthwhile addition to your island itinerary.

FAQs

Is there an age limit for this tour?
The tour involves walking on unpaved, uneven paths with some steps, so it’s best suited for those with good mobility. It’s not ideal for very young children or those with mobility impairments.

How long is the transfer time?
The drive from your pickup point to Butterfly Valley is roughly 30 minutes, with the return journey taking about the same time, depending on traffic.

Are the butterflies visible year-round?
No, butterflies are typically only seen during the high season from late May to mid-September. Outside these months, you might not see many butterflies, but the scenery and waterfalls are still lovely.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, water, and possibly a hat or sunscreen for sunny days. Sturdy footwear is recommended due to uneven paths.

Does the tour include a guide?
No, there’s no guide at the sites, but the driver may share some local insights during transit. You’re free to explore the sites at your own pace.

Are food and drinks included?
No, these are not included. The restaurant at Seven Springs offers options, but many travelers prefer to bring snacks or eat beforehand.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While it’s not specifically designed as a family tour, children who enjoy walking and nature will likely appreciate the experience. Be mindful of the walking involved and uneven terrain.

How much are the entry tickets?
Entry to Butterfly Valley costs about 3 euros in low season and 6 euros in high season. The tour price does not include these.

Can I customize the timing or itinerary?
The schedule is fixed by the tour operator. If you need specific timings, it’s best to check availability beforehand or discuss with the provider when booking.

In the end, whether you’re a nature lover, a photographer, or just seeking a peaceful escape from the busy beaches, this Rhodes day trip offers a charming, budget-conscious way to enjoy some of the island’s best natural sights. Just pack your shoes and your curiosity, and you’re all set for a memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: