Exploring the Enchanting Island of Rhodes with Friends

A Day of Serenity and History

Today was a day of exploring the natural and historical wonders of Rhodes. From the delicate dance of butterflies to the solemn echoes of ancient monasteries, it was an experience that touched both my heart and soul. I'm so excited to share the details of this beautiful day with you all!



Our day began with a delightful breakfast at La Veranda. The rooftop setting offered a stunning view of the Old Town, and the homemade Greek yogurt with fresh fruit was the perfect way to start a day of exploration. Alexandra, the owner, greeted us with a warm smile, making us feel instantly at home. The friendly atmosphere and delicious food made it a memorable start to our Rhodian adventure. I made sure to take some pictures to send to Jihad and Lina, so they could almost taste the freshness of the Greek breakfast.


Discover authentic Greek flavors at La Veranda in Rhodes' enchanting Old Town - where every meal tells a story.

After breakfast, we set off for Butterflies Valley. The drive was scenic, winding through lush landscapes that hinted at the natural beauty to come. As we approached the valley, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. I had heard so much about this unique place, and I was eager to witness it firsthand. Luckily, the valley had already opened for the season on April 12th, so we were just in time!


Explore the serene beauty of Butterflies Valley in Rhodes, Greece, where nature and vibrant butterflies create a breathtaking outdoor experience.

Stepping into Butterflies Valley felt like entering another world. The air was thick with humidity, and the sound of trickling water filled the air. As I walked along the winding paths, I was immediately struck by the sheer number of butterflies. They fluttered around me, their wings creating a kaleidoscope of color. It was truly a magical sight. The Jersey tiger moths, with their vibrant red and black wings, were everywhere, drawn to the scent of the Oriental Sweetgum trees that thrive in the valley. Although April might be a bit early for the peak season (late May to September), there were still plenty of butterflies to admire. The valley was discovered in the 1930s by the Italians, who created a stunning path that meanders through the canyon. I took a moment to appreciate their vision, as the path allowed for easy exploration of the area.

I strolled along the rustic paths, marveling at the waterfalls and wooden bridges that dotted the landscape. It was so serene and peaceful, a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. I couldn't resist snapping dozens of photos, trying to capture the beauty of the butterflies and the lush surroundings. I know Lina would have loved this place; she's always been fascinated by insects and nature. I made a mental note to bring her here someday.

After spending a couple of hours in Butterflies Valley, we headed to 4 Rodies for lunch. This restaurant came highly recommended, known for its traditional Greek dishes and warm atmosphere. The restaurant was easy to find, located on Kanada Street. The ambiance was inviting, with a charming outdoor seating area perfect for enjoying the pleasant weather. We started with a selection of mezze, including dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), tzatziki, and fresh bread. Each dish was bursting with flavor, a testament to the quality of the ingredients. For my main course, I opted for the moussaka, a classic Greek dish made with layers of eggplant, potatoes, and meat sauce, topped with a creamy béchamel sauce. It was simply divine! My friends tried the grilled octopus and the lamb with chickpeas, both of which were equally delicious. The portions were generous, and the prices were reasonable, making it an excellent value for money.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at 4 Rodies in Rhodes – where every dish tells a story of tradition.

As we savored our meal, we were serenaded by the sounds of traditional Greek music, which added to the overall ambiance of the restaurant. The staff was friendly and attentive, making us feel like valued guests. It was the perfect place to relax and refuel after our morning adventure. I made sure to take a few pictures of our lunch spread to share on my blog; I knew my readers would appreciate the authentic Greek cuisine.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we made our way to Filerimos Monastery. Perched atop a hill, the monastery offered stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. As we drove up the winding road, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. I had read about the monastery's rich history, and I was eager to explore its ancient walls.


Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Filerimos Monastery, a must-visit destination in Ialysos, Rhodes, perfect for culture seekers and nature lovers alike.

As we approached the monastery, we were greeted by a group of peacocks strutting proudly around the grounds. Their vibrant plumage added a touch of whimsy to the solemn atmosphere. We paid the entrance fee and stepped inside, ready to delve into the monastery's past. The monastery has a rich history, having served as an important fortress and religious center throughout the ages. In ancient times, the Acropolis of Ialysos was located here, providing a high-level defense for the city. The mountain was originally called Achaia, but it was later named after a monk from Jerusalem who came in the 1200s and placed a picture of a saint in a small church near the top. In the 1400s, the Crusaders built a monastery on the site, which has been expanded and renovated over the centuries.

We explored the remains of the ancient acropolis and visited the monastery church, which was dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The architecture was striking, a blend of different styles that reflected the monastery's long and varied history. I took a moment to light a candle and say a prayer, feeling a sense of peace and tranquility wash over me. From the monastery, we followed the stone-paved path of Filerimos Calvary to a tall cross that stood at the top of the hill. Along the path, we passed 14 bronze symbols of Jesus' suffering, each one a reminder of his sacrifice. The cross itself was an impressive structure, built out of concrete with a spiral staircase inside that led to the top. I climbed the stairs and was rewarded with a breathtaking view of the island. I could see all the way to the coast of Turkey, the landscape spread out before me like a tapestry. It was a truly awe-inspiring sight.

We spent the afternoon exploring the monastery and its surroundings, soaking up the history and the natural beauty. It was a perfect blend of culture and nature, a reminder of the rich heritage of Rhodes. I made sure to take plenty of photos, capturing the monastery's architecture, the peacocks, and the stunning views. As the sun began to set, we made our way back to Rhodes Town, feeling grateful for the experiences we had shared.

For dinner, we decided to try PANERI Restaurant, Creative Mediterranean Cuisine. Located in a tranquil alley in the Old Town, the restaurant offered a charming and intimate setting. Savvas and Evi, the owners, greeted us warmly, making us feel like welcome guests. The restaurant prides itself on using quality Greek products and offering a creative twist on traditional Mediterranean dishes. We started with the prawn ravioli, which was prepared with fresh prawns, mitzithra cheese, and shellfish broth. It was a delightful explosion of flavors! For my main course, I opted for the grilled octopus on a bed of mashed chickpeas, seasoned with a homemade vinaigrette. The octopus was tender and flavorful, and the mashed chickpeas added a creamy and satisfying texture. My friends tried the squid stuffed with feta and the lamb shank with mashed potato in demi-glace sauce, both of which were equally impressive. The presentation of each dish was exquisite, a testament to the chef's attention to detail.


Experience exquisite Mediterranean flavors at PANERI Restaurant in Rhodes - where creativity meets tradition in every dish.

To end our culinary adventure, we indulged in a selection of desserts, including baklava and kataifi, both of which were rich, sweet, and utterly decadent. The restaurant also offered a wide variety of local and international wines, which we paired with our meal. The service was impeccable, and the ambiance was cozy and romantic, making it a perfect ending to our day. It's no wonder Paneri has been honored with the Travellers' Choice Best of the Best award by Tripadvisor, placing it among the top 1% of restaurants globally!

After dinner, we decided to check out Nook Cocktail Bar, a hidden gem known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious drinks. We found it easily enough, and were immediately drawn in by the warm and inviting ambiance. The bar was small and intimate, with comfortable seating and soft lighting. The bartender, Tony, greeted us with a friendly smile and offered us a selection of cocktails. I opted for the Amaretto Sour, which was made with mint and lime instead of cherries and orange peel – a unique and refreshing twist! My friends tried the classic mojito and the margarita, both of which were equally well-crafted. The drinks were reasonably priced, and the service was excellent.


Discover Nook Cocktail Bar in Rhodes, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.

Exploring the natural beauty and historical depth of Rhodes in a single day is an experience that enriches the soul and creates lasting memories.

We spent the evening chatting with Tony and the other patrons, enjoying the relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The bar also had a few resident cats, Bibi, Bira, and Cornelius, who added to the overall charm of the place. It was the perfect way to unwind after a long day of exploring. We left Nook Cocktail Bar feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, ready for another day of adventures.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences I had today. From the delicate dance of butterflies to the solemn echoes of ancient monasteries, it was a day that touched both my heart and soul. I'm so glad I had the opportunity to share it with my friends, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Tomorrow, we're planning to visit the Lindos Acropolis and Saint Paul's Gate. I've heard so much about the Acropolis and its stunning views, and I'm excited to explore its ancient ruins. We're also planning to stop by Savvas Sandals for some shopping. I'm hoping to find a pair of unique, handcrafted sandals to take back home as a souvenir. Until then, goodnight from Rhodes!