Ialyssos - Rodos

Ialyssos (Trianta) used to be the vacation spot of the affluent residents of Rhodes and as a result the region is characterized by the neoclassical houses and the large mansions with palm trees in their yards. Ialyssos is the biggest village of Rodos. The beach - 10 km in length - is one of the windiest in the west side. It is ideal if you are searching a beach that will offer you great waters for swimming and of course if you enjoy windsurfing, since Ialyssos beach is sort of reminiscent of... Hawaii! There is also a playground in the center of the beach that will keep the little ones entertained. Ialyssos is located in the north-western part of the island, 8 km from the town of Rhodes. Visitors can find many large hotels with high standards and two modern conference centers for organizing and hosting international conferences.

Sightseeing

What is worth visiting in Ialyssos is the churches of Dormition of Virgin Mary, of St. Nicholas and Zoodohou Pigis. Also the underground Byzantine church of St. George of Hostou with its great frescoes of the 15th century. You can even visit the Filerimo mountain where you can see peacocks walking beside you... with pride, and then take a look at the Knights' monastery with the large cross at the top. Last but not least, you can also visit the road to Calvary with its 134 stairs, on the sides of which there are representations of the Passions of Christ.

The area is of significant archaeological interest, as it has been inhabited since prehistoric times. In the village of Trianta, there have been found remains of a Minoan settlement and Mycenaean cemeteries in the surrounding hills. In the ancient city of Ialyssos, one of the three great ancient cities of the island, there is the acropolis of ancient monuments, of the Byzantine and Knights era. It is worth visiting the ruins of the temple of Athena Polias. The characteristics of the rock carvings on the west side are considered to serve as depositories or dedications for worship.

For a relaxing evening, you can choose from the many cafes and restaurants along the coast, or you can visit the shops with souvenirs and famous international brands.

DO: Between August-September, enjoy the 'Ialyssia' festival. The program contains elements of Greek traditions with music and dances, as well as exhibitions of books and paintings.

DON'T: The beaches can get extremely crowded, so bear that in mind if you're looking for peace and quiet.