Visiting Kallithea Springs in Rhodes can be a unique experience, where you can get a taste of the Ancient Thermal spa combined with the modern facilities surrounding them. It is a trendy swimming spot, so make sure you arrive early, especially during the summer season. Also, it is a wedding destination party, so the demand in the spring and summer seasons can be really high.
The crystal clear water and the picturesque scenery will leave you speechless. It is an extraordinary place, and it has been known for its therapeutic power since ancient times. The beach seems like a painting made by a colorful collection of pebbles and rocks that lead to the water.
Some ladders lead you down to the sea. Don’t forget to take a snorkel or goggles with you so that you can enjoy the views at the bottom of the sea.
Visiting Kallithea Springs in Rhodes
How to get to Kallithea Springs
This area is located around 8km from the city of Rhodes, so it is not very far. It is a place where you can spend the whole day or even go for an afternoon dip and why not have a drink during the sunset at the cafeteria.
You can take the bus from the Central Bus Station to Faliraki, it stops at Kallithea first, and the buses depart after 8 am every half an hour until midnight. Before 8 am every hour. The ticket costs around 2.40 euros one way. Click here for more information and to check the bus schedule.
Another option is to take a taxi, but it might be pretty expensive for such a short distance. Depending on the season, it might reach 25-30 euros.
Last but not least you can rent a car, there are lots of rental companies you can choose from.
If you like adventure, you can always hike or cycle to Kallithea. As well as, you can select a boat day cruise (prices vary). If you choose one of these two options, make sure to do it early in the morning and avoid the heat.
History of Kallithea Springs
People have been visiting these natural springs since the 7th century B.C. to experience the therapeutic power of the water. Legend has it that Hippocrates drank this water and recommended it to people with stomach problems
In the early 1900s, the Italians occupied the island, which brought more attention to this area. They built the Rotunda with pebble mosaics. In 1930 more than 200 scientists came to witness the therapeutic power of the water with their own eyes.
During World War II, Germans turned the area into a prison. In the modern era, the springs are featured in several International Hollywood movies, such as “The Guns of Navarone,” “Escape to Athena,” and “Poirot and the Triangle of Rhodes.” Today the area no longer offers thermal attributes but still is a place of great history and lots of things to see and do.
Kallithea Springs was renovated in recent years, and the monument has become famous for events. It is a magical place where you can enjoy your lunch, dinner, or a drink. Many cultural events are taking place there during the summer season, so it is worth checking what is happening while you are on the island.
The gardens provide a fresh experience on a warm day and unique sceneries for photoshoots. You can enjoy the sun on a sunbed and order an excellent Greek cold coffee.
The entrance costs 5 euros for adults and 2.50 euros for children under 12 years old.
Things to do in Kallithea
The resort town has tavernas that serve traditional Greek dishes. Sometimes there is live bouzouki to listen to folk music. In the meantime, you can have a dip on a few other beaches near the springs. Go to Nikolas beach, Jordan beach, and Kokkini Beach Kallithea.
Nearby you can visit a few of the villages that belong to Kallithea municipality. Kalithies and Koskinou are two villages that surround the springs.
The village of Kalithies has narrow alleys and lots of things to see. You can visit the “Eleousa Monastery,” located on the west side of the town. Don’t miss out on the stalactite cave of St. George, which is the oldest Neolithic dwelling on the island.
You will be amazed by the village of Koskinou. The house doors are painted in bright colors and are made of wood and carved designs. Leave your car in the parking area; while entering the village and walking towards the old part of the village, you will come across the magnificent mosaic colors. On the outskirts of the town, there is a small knight castle. The views are breathtaking!
On the islands in south Greece, warm temperatures can last longer than usual. So, if you are thinking of visiting the island, you can always choose an autumn season, where you can still experience the island holiday style!