Rhodes: Filerimos hill and Butterflies Valley-Small Group

Discover Rhodes in a Short Yet Rich Tour Experience

This 6-hour small group tour in Rhodes offers a practical way to see two of the island’s most celebrated highlights. For just $28.23 per person, you’ll enjoy a fully air-conditioned minibus that transports you comfortably between Filerimos Hill and the Butterflies Valley. The tour is designed for families and nature lovers, ensuring an engaging experience without the need for extensive planning or long hours.

The tour features self-exploration opportunities at each stop, with around 80 minutes at Filerimos and about 90 minutes at the Butterfly Valley. While the tour includes transport and an English-speaking driver, entrance fees to the sites are not included, so be prepared for some additional expenses. This excursion balances sightseeing, photo opportunities, and peaceful walks, making it a well-rounded choice for those wanting to experience Rhodes’ natural and historic beauty efficiently.

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Key Points

• Cost-effective tour at $28.23 per person lasting 6 hours
• Visits to Filerimos Hill with a monastery, ancient ruins, and panoramic views
• Exploration of the Butterfly Valley, especially vibrant from mid-June to September
• Transport in a luxury, air-conditioned minibus with self-guided walks
• Suitable for families and nature enthusiasts, but not ideal for travelers with mobility issues
• Entrance fees are not included, so budget accordingly

Visiting Filerimos Hill and the Monastery of Our Lady

The first stop is Filerimos Hill, located near the village of Trianta. Here, you encounter the monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary, which features distinctive architecture. You also see the ruins of a baptistery in the shape of a cross, the remains of Ancient Ialyssos, and an underground church of St. George dating back to the 14th century.

A key feature is the path to Golgothas, which starts from the monastery and leads up a hill. The path offers spectacular views and is marked by engraved representations of the Passion of Christ. At the top, you’ll find a massive cross and an excellent vantage point for photos. The approximately 80-minute visit allows plenty of time to take in the scenery and explore the historical remains.

Exploring the Valley of the Butterflies

The second highlight is the Valley of the Butterflies, a landscape celebrated for its tranquil beauty. From mid-June to September, the valley becomes filled with thousands of butterflies, making it a vibrant spectacle. Outside this period, the landscape remains picturesque, featuring green shaded pathways, a small river, and waterfalls.

The walk through the valley is peaceful and shaded, with wooden benches along the way to relax and enjoy the surroundings. Visitors often find this stop to be a family-friendly experience, especially for children interested in learning about butterfly life cycles. An on-site Museum of Natural History enhances the visit by providing information about the local flora and fauna. The museum houses a hatchery where butterflies are bred in a controlled environment, adding an educational touch.

Transportation and Group Size

Traveling in a luxury, fully air-conditioned minibus ensures comfort throughout the day. The tour is run by Sigma travel-Rhodos, with an English-speaking driver guiding the group. Group sizes are kept small, making the experience more intimate and allowing for personalized attention.

The pickup points include Kremasti, Koskinou, Afantou, Ialysos, Rhodes town, and Faliraki, with the exact time and place communicated via email the day before. The itinerary includes approximately 30 minutes of travel between stops, giving enough time to settle in and enjoy each location.

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Practical Details and What to Pack

Participants should come prepared with comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen to handle the outdoor elements. A camera is recommended for capturing the scenic views from Filerimos and the butterflies’ vibrant landscape. The tour does not include food or drinks, so bringing cash for additional expenses is advised.

Since the tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchairs, travelers with certain health conditions should consider this before booking. The pickup service simplifies logistics, but the tour involves walking and exploring uneven terrain, particularly at Filerimos.

Notable Limitations and Considerations

One point to consider is that Filerimos Hill may not always be accessible. As noted in a recent review, Filerimos Hill was not open, limiting the visit to only the cross and the viewpoint. It is advisable to check availability in advance if seeing the monastery itself is a priority.

Plus, entrance fees to the archaeological sites and Butterfly Valley are not included, so budget extra for these if you wish to explore fully on-site. The duration of 6 hours makes this tour suitable for a half-day outing, so it fits well into a broader travel schedule.

The Value of a Short, Focused Tour

This Rhodes tour provides an efficient way to see two of the island’s top attractions without a full day spent on transport or complex planning. The self-guided exploration at each stop allows for a relaxed pace and personal interest. For families or nature lovers seeking a balanced mix of history and natural beauty, this tour offers excellent value.

While it might not suit those with mobility issues or travelers seeking in-depth guided tours, it remains an appealing option for those who want a light, scenic experience at a reasonable price. The small group setting enhances comfort and flexibility, making the day both enjoyable and manageable.

Rhodes: Filerimos Hill and Butterflies Valley – Small Group Tour

In summary, this tour stands out for its convenience, affordability, and diverse highlights. It covers Filerimos Hill’s historical and panoramic views and the peaceful Butterfly Valley, renowned for its seasonal butterfly display. With positive reviews praising the views and the value, it remains a recommended choice for short-stay visitors aiming to enjoy nature and history on a compact schedule.

If you’re interested in a half-day trip that combines scenic beauty with cultural sights, this tour offers a great balance. Just remember to check the opening status of Filerimos and prepare for additional entrance fees to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially for families with kids interested in nature and butterflies, but be aware it involves walking and uneven terrain.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees to archaeological sites and Butterfly Valley are not included and need to be paid separately.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, camera, cash, and water are recommended for a comfortable visit.

Can I visit Filerimos Monastery?
Yes, you can visit if it is open; however, there is a chance it might not be accessible, as noted in recent reviews.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
No, this tour is not suitable for wheelchairs or people with mobility impairments.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour operates in a small group setting, but the exact number of participants is not specified.

How long is each stop?
Filerimos is approximately 80 minutes, and Butterfly Valley is around 90 minutes.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking is recommended to secure your spot; you can reserve now and pay later.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of historical sights, panoramic views, and natural beauty in a short, affordable package makes this tour especially appealing.

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