Scenic island tours
Profitis Ilias Mountain Hike
A genuine woodland hike into the island's highlands, with sea views from the top.
A guided small-group hike starting from the village of Salakos, climbing shaded mountain paths through Profitis Ilias to Italian-era buildings and Aegean viewpoints, before returning the same way.
The hike begins in Salakos and follows shaded paths up through the mountain's forest cover — a genuinely different pace and setting from Rhodes' coastal excursions, with fresh air and gradual, steady climbing rather than a single steep push.
Higher up, the route reaches the Elafos and Elafina hotels, relics of the Italian colonial period, along with the historic Villa de Vecci and an old Byzantine church — small, atmospheric stops that reward the climb.
From the top, views stretch out over the Aegean toward the Turkish coast and other islands on a clear day, before the group retraces its steps back down to Salakos.
Highlights
- A genuine forest hike rather than a coach tour with photo stops
- Italian-era buildings including the Elafos and Elafina hotels
- The historic Villa de Vecci and an old Byzantine church
- Aegean views toward Turkey and neighbouring islands from the summit area
What a good tour includes
- Guide for the hike
- Transportation to and from Salakos
- Snack and beverage
Getting there from the cruise port
Cruise ships calling at Rhodes typically berth at the Tourist Port, within a short walk of the Old Town's medieval walls for most berths, though some calls use the outer Commercial Port and a handful of tours meet a few minutes' walk from the pier rather than directly alongside it. Always confirm your exact meeting point and pickup location from your booking confirmation, since this is set per tour and can vary from ship to ship. The Old Town itself is comfortably walkable from most berths — allow 10–20 minutes — so a guide is optional if you only want the medieval quarter. Lindos, the beaches at Anthony Quinn Bay and Kallithea, and the island's mountainous interior all require coach, taxi or private transport; there is no practical walking option. Whichever excursion you choose, plan your day backwards from the ship's stated all-aboard time rather than its published departure time, and build in a buffer for Rhodes' summer traffic on the coastal road to Lindos.
Tips for cruise passengers
- The supplier sets a minimum age of 8 and a maximum age of 75 for participants
- Wear closed-toe shoes and bring a waterproof top layer in spring or autumn
- The supplier does not recommend this hike for guests with limited mobility
Typically not included
- A full meal — only a snack and beverage are included, per the supplier
Check dates and availability
Live pricing and departure times are confirmed on our excursion partner's booking page. We may earn a commission from qualifying bookings at no extra cost to you.
Operated by Shore Excursions Group · Product eurhhikeprofit. We do not operate this tour ourselves.
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A shaded valley thick with moths, followed by a proper sit-down tasting of local wine and produce.
Sea Kayaking Rhodes' Pirate Coast
A hands-on paddle past sea caves and hidden coves, with lunch on the beach.
Profitis Ilias Mountain Hike — FAQs
How difficult is this hike?▼
The supplier rates it Moderate — a sustained uphill walk on shaded paths, suitable for reasonably fit guests but not recommended for those with limited mobility.
Is there an age limit?▼
Yes. The supplier sets a minimum participation age of 8 and a maximum of 75.
Is food included?▼
A snack and beverage are included per the supplier, though this is not a full meal — eat beforehand if you'll want more.