In Rhodes and the Dodecanese islands, the Aegean Sea is everywhere and moves us between myth and reality. It bathes the coasts of Rhodes, Symi, Karpathos, Astypalaia, Patmos, Kastellorizo, Leros, Tilos, Kos, Kassos, Nissiros, Kalymnos or Lipsi. All of these jewels licked by the Aegean waves offer a unique experience to the visitor who takes the time to push open these "gates of paradise".
A cultural destination
There are few places from which one returns knowing that one will inevitably return. The Dodecanese is one of those places where you are attracted again, every year. Indeed, it is impossible to get tired of the archipelago, as each island is unique and offers multiple faces. A mosaic of landscapes and atmospheres, the discovery of the Dodecanese islands seems almost inexhaustible. Beyond the mythological seal, the twelve islands of the Dodecanese are marked by an exceptional heritage. Thus, the old cities of Rhodes and Patmos are classified as world heritage by UNESCO. As the cradle of Western civilization and democracy, Greece has more than one story to tell. Whether in front of ancient ruins or on the terrace of a kafeneion, history is omnipresent and proudly maintained by the Greeks who will be happy to tell you about it. The historical and artistic heritage of the Dodecanese is immense: the smallest village is full of ancient treasures, Byzantine chapels, Venetian fortresses or caves hiding invincible hydras..
Beaches, water sports and hiking
Everywhere, nature offers fine sandy beaches, turquoise and translucent waters, sharp mountains, arid or abundant landscapes, solitary creeks, lunar craters... Each island, each topology is unique and influences the local atmosphere. Thus, you will live differently depending on whether you choose the spirituality of Patmos, the traditionalism of Karpathos, the harshness of Leros, the madness of Lipsi, the orientalism of Kastellorizo or the benevolence of Kalymnos. The Dodecanese offers the traveller many possibilities for a "natural" holiday. Although the Greeks are not the kings of environmental protection, the beaches hold a special place in their hearts and are regularly cleaned and protected. Great efforts have been made to ensure that Greek beaches are clean and their quality has improved considerably. In fact, the vast majority of them now have the famous "European Blue Flag", a sign that the waters are clean and that the environmental management of the coast is correct. The advantage of the beaches of the Dodecanese is that they have remained largely untouched, except for the most popular beaches of Rhodes. You will have the opportunity to practice scuba diving to discover wrecks and other natural curiosities, especially in Leros. You may be lucky enough to see the last monk seals in the Mediterranean. Windsurfers will find their happiness in Prasonisi, south of Rhodes and in Karpathos while kitesurfers will go to Kos. Finally, sailing is available everywhere. Lovers of the sea and water sports will of course have a great time, but not only that, far from it. Walking enthusiasts will also be delighted. The islands of Tilos, Kassos and Karpathos are criss-crossed with paths and marked trails, while Kalymnos is an internationally renowned temple for rock climbing. Little by little, the islands of the archipelago have understood that there was much to bet on inland tourism, beyond a simple seaside tourism and the municipalities are developing this activity more and more.
Culinary pleasures and long parties
The region offers a rich and varied gastronomy, trendy places to drink and dance the night away, or an Olympian serenity and calm. Grilled octopus, vine leaves, tzatziki, but so much more. As you meet these people with their strong personalities, you will also have the opportunity to taste original wines - from syrupy reds to resinous whites - and enjoy excellent mezze cooked under the patronage of the revered olive oil. Each island also brings its own unique twist to traditional Greek cuisine, and you'll be sure to try local specialties such as Rhodes wine, Karpathos makara, Kalymnos krithini kouloura and Symi shrimp. And, after the meal, we continue! Greece is a country of festivities, which is indeed rooted in tradition. Any occasion is good for dancing and listening to music while drinking a raki or ouzo. Even in small villages or on isolated islands, bars are regularly filled until late at night. Religious traditions are also conscientiously respected by all and give rise to great celebrations: weddings, christenings, the feasts of all the patron saints... so many good opportunities to drink, eat and dance. And it will be the occasion to multiply the meetings with this cordial people. The Greeks are proud of their country, of its history rich in anecdotes and deeds that have marked several generations. It is undoubtedly the richness of this past that has given the Greeks this unique character and charm that characterize them. Sometimes gruff, sometimes affectionate, they are an endearing people who will surprise you with their generosity and hospitality, sometimes disconcerting.
Sunshine all year round, far from the crowds
Of course, the Dodecanese islands are very popular in August, but outside this ultra-touristy month, you will be far from the crowds. Indeed, except for Rhodes and Kos, the Dodecanese islands are still largely preserved from mass tourism. Nothing to do with the Cyclades archipelago, for example, which is so well known by international visitors. The Dodecanese is still relatively uncrowded, especially in June and September: it is still time to enjoy the wild beauty of these magnificent islands. Spring, in particular, is an idyllic season for walking enthusiasts, as the islands are then covered in flowers, something that seems unthinkable in summer. Sea lovers will prefer the month of September, which is very sunny and has warm waters during the hot summer months. The Dodecanese islands enjoy a predominantly Mediterranean climate, also known as the "olive tree climate". It is said that Greece has the mildest climate in the Mediterranean basin and that Rhodes is the hottest island in Greece. With only a few months a year to avoid (January-February), the sun will never fail you: it is the sunniest Greek archipelago. It is present everywhere from the first days of spring, and is fierce in the summer months. Fortunately, you can always take a nap in the shade of a tamarisk tree. In any case, tourism in Rhodes and the Dodecanese islands is not new. Even in Roman times, good families sent their sons to study there. Let's follow their example.
Useful information
When is it open? The hottest time of the year is of course summer, but if you have the choice, avoid the months of July and August when the sites and hotels are overrun by tourists and prices soar. The period from Easter to early July is quiet and pleasant. September is ideal, as the sea is warmed by the summer months. The season ends at the end of October. After that, many hotels close on the islands or in the less visited towns, as the seasonal workers return to Athens. In Rhodes, everything stays open all year round. The most peaceful periods are spring and autumn. The weather is mild and the sites are not yet crowded
Getting there. There are not many direct flights to Rhodes, many of them via Athens. It is necessary to count between 200 € and 500 € for the return trip.
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