Rhodes: Profitis Ilias Guided Sunset Hike

If you’re wandering around Rhodes and craving a blend of nature, history, and a touch of adventure, the Profitis Ilias Guided Sunset Hike might just be what you’re looking for. This tour offers a chance to escape the usual tourist spots and experience the island from a new perspective — on foot, amid its natural beauty, culminating in an unforgettable sunset.

We’ve been hearing great things about this experience, including its friendly guides and breathtaking views. The best parts? The chance to see the island from one of its highest points and to learn about local sights while enjoying a traditional Greek snack. But, as with any outdoor activity, there’s a consideration to keep in mind: the hike isn’t designed for very young children or those with limited mobility.

If you’re someone who appreciates scenic outdoor adventures, loves a good story about local history, and is okay with a moderate hike, then this trip is likely a good fit. It’s especially appealing for those wanting an active, authentic experience that’s eco-friendly and family-appropriate (for kids over 8).

Key Points

• Stunning Views: You’ll get panoramic vistas of the Aegean Sea and nearby islands, especially at sunset.
• Expert Guidance: The tour is led by knowledgeable local guides who share interesting insights about the sights and history.
• Moderate Hike: The trail covers about 5.5 km with a gentle altitude climb, suitable for most with decent fitness.
• Cultural & Historical Stops: Visit Italian colonial buildings, the Villa de Vecchi, and the Byzantine church of Profitis Elias.
• Authentic Experience: Enjoy a traditional Rhodes snack and refreshing drinks after the climb.
• Flexible Options: Includes hotel pickup if desired, with small group sizes ensuring a more personal experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point and How You Get There

The tour begins either from your accommodation in Rhodes or from the charming village of Salakos, located on the mountain’s foothills. If you opt for pickup, your guide will collect you from areas like Rhodes Town, Faliraki, or Ialysos — all convenient spots. If you prefer to meet the group, Salakos offers a lovely, quiet setting, perfect for starting your adventure.

The journey by vehicle sets a relaxed tone for what’s to come. The total duration is around 4 to 5 hours, including stops, with the actual hiking time about 2.5 hours spread across the trip. The small group size (limited to 10 participants) makes for a friendly, intimate experience—great for asking questions or sharing the awe of the views.

The Ascent: What the Hike Looks Like

Once you hit the trail, you’ll walk through a landscape dotted with ilex, pine, and olive trees. The trail itself is described as a soft, easy dirt path, making it accessible for most people. The total distance is around 5.5 km, and the climb involves an altitude change of roughly 395 meters, so some stamina helps, but it’s not overly strenuous.

During the ascent, the guide shares stories about the mountain’s past, including the Italian buildings built in 1929 and 1932, and the Villa de Vecchi, once home to the Italian Governor of Rhodes. This gives the walk a nice mix of natural beauty and cultural insights, adding context to the scenery.

At the Summit: Sights and History

Arriving at the top, you’ll find a mix of buildings styled like Alpine lodges, remnants of Rhodes’ time as an Italian colony. The Byzantine church of Profitis Elias is a highlight, offering a peaceful spot with historical significance. You’ll also pass by the Italian hotels, like the Elafos and Elafina, which add to the European flavor of the landscape.

The sense of achievement from reaching the summit is complemented by the views — on clear days, you can see the coast of Turkey, nearby islands, and the vast expanse of the Aegean. It’s an impressive backdrop for photos or just soaking it all in.

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The Sunset Moment: A Truly Special Part

One of the most praised elements of this tour is the sunset. After a short break with a traditional Rhodes snack and drinks (ice tea or water), the group moves to a vantage point for the evening’s main event. As the sun dips lower, the sky lights up with warm hues, casting a golden glow over the sea and landscape.

Reviews often highlight how “the climb is rewarded with a beautiful sunset,” and many mention how calming and memorable this moment is. It’s a great way to pause and appreciate the natural beauty of Rhodes from an elevated spot. Plus, the headlamps used for the descent add a bit of adventure to closing out the day.

Return Journey and Practical Details

After sunset, the group heads back down along the same trail. The guided walk back incorporates a gentle descent, with some stops and the opportunity to reflect on the day. The use of headlamps ensures safety and a fun, slightly adventurous feel.

If you booked with hotel pickup, you’ll be driven back to your accommodation. Otherwise, you’ll finish back at Salakos, with the option to explore the village or head home.

What Travelers Say: Honest Feedback

The reviews give a good sense of what to expect. Abigaël describes the evening as “really beautiful,” noting that the hike has a “sportsy start,” but becomes more relaxed later. She appreciated the guide’s friendliness and the stories about local plants, monuments, and traditions.

Another participant, Nicole, calls the tour “something really great” and emphasizes that the climb rewards you with a “beautiful sunset” and Greek delicacies. She does mention it’s not ideal for children under 8 or those with mobility issues, so keep that in mind if traveling with little ones.

The guides seem to be a highlight—friendly, knowledgeable, and funny, making the experience all the more enjoyable.

The Value of This Tour

At $51 per person, the cost includes everything: guide, snacks, drinks, headlamps, and even souvenir photos. For that price, you’re getting a well-rounded experience that blends physical activity, cultural insights, and stunning scenery. It’s a comparatively affordable way to enjoy a memorable part of Rhodes, especially compared to more traditional sightseeing tours.

The tour’s small-group format adds to the feeling of intimacy and allows the guide to cater to your questions and preferences. Being able to choose pickup or meet at Salakos offers flexibility, making it more convenient for different travel plans.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This hike is best suited for those with a moderate level of fitness who enjoy being outdoors and are open to a bit of physical activity. It’s not for very young children or anyone with mobility challenges, given the terrain and altitude change. If you love scenic vistas, historical sites, and a calm, sunset ending, this tour ticks all those boxes.

It’s also a great option for travelers who appreciate local stories, want a bit of an active adventure, and aren’t just looking for a quick drive-by experience. The inclusion of a traditional snack makes it feel authentic, and the views at sunset turn the whole journey into a memorable moment.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, if you choose the hotel pickup option, you’ll be collected from your accommodation and dropped off after the hike. Otherwise, you can meet at Salakos village.

How long is the total experience?
The entire tour lasts about 4 to 5 hours, with around 2.5 hours of hiking. The rest includes stops, breaks, and travel time.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, windbreaker, and a daypack are recommended for the hike.

Is this suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 8, mainly because of the moderate physical effort required and the terrain.

Can I do this if I have mobility issues?
No, the tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments due to the nature of the trail.

What’s the best time to do this hike?
Sunset rides are popular, so check the availability for your preferred date. The sunset view is the highlight, so plan accordingly.

How difficult is the hike?
It’s considered a soft-easy trail, suitable for most with average fitness, but the climb does require some stamina.

Are water and snacks provided?
Yes, included in the tour are water, iced tea, and a traditional Greek snack.

What’s the scenery like?
Expect panoramic views of the sea, nearby islands, and the coastline of Turkey on clear days. The sunset adds a magical glow to everything.

How many people are in a group?
Groups are limited to 10 participants, making for a more personalized experience.

If you’re after a balanced outdoor adventure with a dash of history and culture, then the Profitis Ilias Sunset Hike offers excellent value. It’s a chance to stretch your legs, learn a bit, and end the day with an iconic view that stays with you. Think of it as a memorable way to see Rhodes beyond the beaches and streets, with plenty of opportunity for stunning photos and relaxed conversations.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy walking, are comfortable with moderate effort, and want to experience a genuine slice of island life — especially as the sun dips below the horizon. It’s not overly strenuous, but enough to feel like you’ve earned that spectacular sunset, with a guide who makes it all feel approachable and fun.

Ready to explore Rhodes from its highest point? This hike might just become one of your most cherished memories of the island.

You can check availability for your dates here: