Hiking Profitis Ilias Mountain – pick up service available

Discover the Charm of Hiking Profitis Ilias Mountain on Rhodes

For those seeking a scenic and accessible mountain trek, the Hiking Profitis Ilias Mountain tour offers an engaging experience at just $57.62 per person. With a duration of approximately 4 hours, this small-group adventure is perfect for nature lovers and beginners alike. The tour begins in the picturesque village of Salakos, from where you will ascend the third-highest peak on Rhodes in a well-maintained, shaded trail that ensures comfort and safety.

A standout feature of this tour is the pick-up service, simplifying logistics for travelers. The hike combines natural beauty with historical stops, including former Italian hotels, a Villa de Vecchi, and a Byzantine church. The small group limit of 10 people guarantees a personalized experience, with knowledgeable guides leading the way. This tour consistently earns a top rating of 5.0/5, and is recommended by 100% of participants.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $57.62 for a scenic half-day hike
• Duration of around 4 hours, including stops and breaks
• Pick-up service available from Salakos
• Easy trail suitable for beginners, with some demanding uphill sections
• Panoramic views of Turkey, the Aegean Sea, and nearby islands
• Visits to historic sites, including former Italian hotels and a Byzantine church

Starting Point in Salakos Village for a Scenic Ascent

This tour departs from Epar.Od. Kalavardas-Empona 99, Salakos, a charming agricultural village on the mountain’s foothills. The meeting point is straightforward, and the guide leads the group from here on a trail that ascends gradually. The trail is well-kept, not overly rocky, and mostly shaded by ilex, pine, and olive trees, making it accessible for most fitness levels with a basic level of physical fitness.

The trail’s starting point offers an inviting introduction to Rhodes’ lush landscapes before gaining elevation. The ascent takes you through a series of gentle slopes, with the most demanding part being the initial uphill climb. The good quality of the trail ensures a comfortable walk, even for beginners, while still providing a little challenge for those with more hiking experience.

Spectacular Views of the Aegean and Nearby Islands

One of the most memorable aspects of this hike is the breathtaking scenery visible from the trail. As you ascend, the views extend across the Aegean Sea, with clear sights of Turkey’s coastline and several nearby islands, including Halki and Tilos. These vistas are particularly striking from the recreational picnic area near the summit, where the group pauses to enjoy snacks and take photos.

The panoramic scenery makes the effort worthwhile, offering a sense of connection to the landscape of Rhodes and its surroundings. The landscape’s natural beauty, combined with the clear views of distant islands, makes this hike a visually rewarding experience.

Visiting the Italian Hotels and Villas in Alpine Style

At the top of Profitis Ilias, you’ll find the Elafos and Elafina Hotels, built in 1929 and 1932 respectively. These former hotels, constructed by Italians in an Alpine architectural style, stand as reminders of the island’s early 20th-century history. The names—meaning “male and female deer” in Greek—add a charming touch to the buildings, which retain their historical character.

The Villa de Vecchi, once owned by an Italian governor of Rhodes, is also part of the visit. Its presence on the mountain adds a layer of historical intrigue and offers insight into Rhodes’ past during Italian rule. The tour includes a stop at the Byzantine church of Profitis Ilias, providing a spiritual and cultural perspective amidst the natural surroundings.

A Short Break and a Tasty Snack at the Summit

After exploring the historic sites, the group takes a short break at the summit’s recreational area. This pause allows for enjoying light snacks and taking in the spectacular views. The relaxed pace and pleasant scenery make this a perfect moment to rest and reflect on the journey.

The break is well-timed, offering a chance to appreciate the surroundings and capture memorable photos of the coastline, islands, and the distant sea.

The Descent Back to Salakos Through Shaded Trails

Following the break, the group begins the descent back to Salakos along the same well-maintained trail. The downhill walk is easier on the legs but still offers stunning sights of the landscape. The shaded trail ensures relief from the sun, especially during warmer months, and the familiar scenery provides a calming end to the hike.

The return journey is smooth, and the group is guided safely back to the starting point, completing the approximately 4-hour experience. The tour’s structure allows enough time for sightseeing, photos, and enjoying the natural environment without feeling rushed.

Logistics and Group Size for a Personalized Experience

The tour is organized by Trekking Hellas Rhodes, with a maximum group size of 10 travelers. This small-group format ensures personalized attention from the guides, who are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. The pick-up service from Salakos simplifies transportation, making the experience hassle-free for visitors.

Most travelers book about 55 days in advance, indicating strong interest and the tour’s popularity. The tour operates in good weather conditions, with clear cancellation policies allowing full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Expert Guides and Informative Commentary Throughout

Reviews highlight the guides’ expertise, with particular praise for Panos, who offers informative commentary about the landscape, history, and local culture. Their storytelling enhances the hike, making it not just a walk but an educational experience.

Travelers appreciate how guides explain the significance of the former Italian hotels and historic sites. Their friendly demeanor and helpful attitude contribute to a welcoming atmosphere, especially for those new to hiking.

Comparing This Tour to Other Rhodes Activities

While this tour focuses on the natural and historic highlights of Profitis Ilias, similar experiences include water parks, boat trips, or sightseeing tours. However, this hike stands out for its balance of physical activity, scenic views, and cultural stops.

It offers a more relaxed pace compared to strenuous hikes, making it suitable for beginners or those looking for a gentle outdoor experience. The inclusion of historical sites adds depth to the walk, enriching the overall experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Mountain Hike?

This tour appeals most to nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and beginners who want a manageable outdoor adventure. The easy, shaded trail combined with spectacular views and historical visits makes it suitable for a broad range of travelers.

Those interested in local architecture and historic sites will find the visit to the Italian hotels, Villa de Vecchi, and Byzantine church especially engaging. The small-group setting ensures a personalized, relaxed experience, perfect for families or solo travelers seeking a social outdoor activity.

Final Thoughts on Hiking Profitis Ilias Mountain

The Hiking Profitis Ilias Mountain tour offers a well-rounded experience blending natural beauty, history, and easy adventure. The value for money is clear, with knowledgeable guides, a scenic route, and convenient logistics. The stunning panoramic views and historic sites provide a memorable backdrop for a half-day walk.

While the trail is compatible with most fitness levels, a basic level of fitness is recommended due to the initial uphill section. This tour is an excellent choice for those wanting a relaxed but rewarding outdoor activity on Rhodes, especially for first-time hikers or those wanting a low-impact but picturesque experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the trail is mainly easy and shaded, making it suitable for beginners, though some uphill sections require a basic level of fitness.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, a pick-up service from Salakos is offered, simplifying logistics and ensuring a smooth start and finish.

How long does the hike last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 4 hours, including stops for sightseeing and snacks.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Visitors enjoy panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, visits to historic Italian hotels, Villa de Vecchi, and a Byzantine church, all led by knowledgeable guides in a small-group setting.

Can I cancel if weather conditions are poor?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance due to poor weather, ensuring flexibility and peace of mind.

This tour offers a balanced combination of natural scenery, history, and relaxed hiking, making it a fantastic choice for anyone visiting Rhodes eager for a scenic and culturally enriching outdoor activity.