Rhodes: Hiking Tour to the Summit of Akramitis with Photos

Key Points

• Duration and Location: This guided hiking tour lasts 5 to 6 hours and departs from Monolithos, a rural village on Rhodes’ western side.
• Conquer Akramitis: It takes you to the summit of Akramitis, the second highest mountain on Rhodes, inside a protected Natura 2000 area.
• Breathtaking Views: From the top, enjoy 360-degree vistas of the Dodecanese Islands, the Rhodes inland, the lake in Apollakia, and nearby mountains including Attaviros.
• Varied Terrain: The hike includes winding forest trails, grassy meadows, and rocky peaks, with a route that shifts to pine forest on the descent.
• All-Inclusive Experience: The tour includes trekking equipment, traditional snacks, photo opportunities, and personalized guidance.
• Suitable for Active Participants: This experience suits those comfortable with moderate hiking, with recommendations for sturdy shoes and sun protection.

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Exploring Rhodes’ Hidden Mountain: Akramitis

This guided hiking tour from Trekking Hellas Rhodes takes you on a 5 to 6-hour journey through less-traveled parts of Rhodes to reach Akramitis’ summit. Starting in Monolithos, a quaint village on the western coast, the adventure begins with a scenic ascent along lush, green slopes beneath cypress trees overlooking the bay of Apollakia. The trail gradually becomes more challenging as you navigate over rocks and uneven terrain, making this tour best suited for those with some hiking experience.

Reaching the top offers remarkable panoramic views of the Dodecanese Islands, the lake in Apollakia, and inland sights such as Attaviros, Rhodes’ highest mountain. The ascent is complemented by the natural beauty of spring flowers, fragrant herbs, and rare Rhodian orchids, especially in the season’s bloom.

The Route and Trail Conditions on Akramitis

The trail covers approximately 9.1 km with an estimated hiking time of 4 hours, making for a moderately demanding walk. The initial section involves a gentle ascent through forests of cypress and pine trees, offering shade and a peaceful environment. As the path narrows, hikers will encounter rocky slopes and uneven terrain, requiring sturdy hiking shoes and a windbreaker.

The descent takes a different route, leading through a tall pine forest, providing a shaded and relaxed way back to the village. The trail’s natural diversity means travelers experience rock formations, meadows, and scenic viewpoints at several stops along the way, including a tiny old chapel of St John, where a traditional snack is served.

Meet the Guides and Their Local Expertise

During the tour, the guides demonstrate a high level of knowledge about Rhodes’ natural environment, history, and mythology. Their enthusiastic storytelling enriches the experience, with insights into local castles, historical legends, and the island’s resistance stories. The guides also ensure the pace remains comfortable for everyone, and their dedication is evident in their helpful, attentive approach.

Several reviews highlight guides like George and others who are well-prepared and informative. Their ability to blend local insights with safety and support makes the hike both instructive and enjoyable.

Rest Stops, Snacks, and Photo Opportunities

A key highlight occurs at the chapel of St John, where a welcome snack—a traditional Greek pie—is served. This break offers a chance to rest, capture photos, and enjoy the scenic surroundings. Throughout the hike, photo stops provide spectacular views, especially of the sea, mountains, and islands.

The tour also emphasizes local flavor by sharing stories about Greece’s culinary traditions and local plants and flowers, which bloom beautifully in spring. The route offers many opportunities for memorable photos, making it a favorite for those who love capturing nature’s landscapes.

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What to Expect from the Descent Through the Forest

After reaching the summit, the return route takes you through a pine forest, offering a more shaded and relaxed walk back down. This section features a different natural environment, with tall trees, fragrant herbs, and birdsong, providing a tranquil ending to the strenuous climb.

The total walking time on the descent is approximately 1.5 hours, making for a well-paced experience. The scenic forest trail contrasts with the rocky ascent, giving a sense of variety and natural beauty.

Logistics: Meeting Point, Transportation, and Group Size

The tour departs from the north entrance of Monolithos, at the Taverna Christos Corner. The coordinates are 36.13185119628906, 27.740854263305664. Pickup options are available from various locations, including Rhodes Town, Ixia, Ialysos, Kremasti, and several other nearby resorts.

The tour is offered in small group settings and includes all necessary trekking equipment. Hotel pickup and drop-off are optional, with the total duration generally spanning 5 to 6 hours. The tour operates with live guides in English and Greek, ensuring clear communication and local storytelling.

Physical Requirements and What to Bring

The hike involves moderate physical effort over rocky terrain, steep ascents, and uneven paths. Hiking shoes are recommended, along with long hiking pants, a second T-shirt, and a windproof jacket. Sun protection is crucial: sunglasses, sun hat, and sunblock are advised.

Participants should bring a daypack with an extra bottle of water and personal sun protection. The tour is not suitable for children under 10 years or those with mobility impairments due to the physical demands.

Customer Experience and Overall Value

With a rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 33 reviews, this tour resonates with those seeking an active outdoor experience combined with local insights. Reviewers praise knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and the opportunity to explore a lesser-known part of Rhodes.

Some mention the difficulty level, emphasizing the need for good footwear and a reasonable level of fitness. The inclusion of traditional snacks, photography, and the personalized guidance adds value, making this tour especially appealing to those wanting a combination of adventure and cultural discovery.

Unique Aspects of the Rhodes Akramitis Hike

What sets this tour apart is its focus on a less-visited mountain, offering spectacular views without the crowds. The diverse landscape—from forests to rocky peaks—provides a variety of natural environments in one hike. The local stories and legends shared by guides give the experience a personal and authentic touch.

The tour’s well-organized stops, including a traditional snack at a historic chapel, balance physical activity with culture. The small group size ensures personalized attention, ideal for those who prefer a more intimate outdoor adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fit do I need to be for this hike?
A moderate level of fitness is recommended due to rocky terrain and steep sections. The tour is suitable for active individuals comfortable with up to 4 hours of hiking.

What should I wear?
Sturdy hiking shoes, long hiking pants, a second T-shirt, and a windproof jacket are advised. Sun protection like sunglasses, sun hat, and sunblock are essential.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it is not suitable for children under 10 years or those with mobility impairments because of the physical demands.

What’s included in the tour?
The experience includes trekking equipment, traditional snacks, photo stops, and guidance in English or Greek.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Taverna Christos Corner in Monolithos, with options for hotel pickup from various locations around Rhodes.

How long does the hike take?
The total experience lasts 5 to 6 hours, with about 4 hours of actual hiking.

Are there any scenic spots worth noting?
Yes, the summit offers 360-degree views of the Dodecanese Islands, nearby Mount Attaviros, and inland Rhodes.

What is the difficulty level?
The hike is moderately demanding because of rocky paths and elevation, so good footwear and fitness are helpful.

Can I buy souvenirs or get photos taken?
Yes, photo stops are built into the route, and souvenirs can be taken at the summit or during breaks.

Is food and drink provided?
A traditional Greek pie is served during the stop at St John’s chapel, and travelers are encouraged to bring additional water.

What makes this experience unique?
The focus on Akramitis, less touristy landscapes, and local storytelling by knowledgeable guides make this hike stand out from typical Rhodes excursions.

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