Thermal baths of Rhodes. Kallithea in Rhodes: good view, great beach Thermal Baths of Rhodes history

The Baths of Kallithea are healing springs located in the eastern part of the island. The distance from the city of Rhodes is 9 kilometers. On the western coast of the island there is a picturesque park where the source of geothermal waters originates. On the site of this source, a round pavilion under a dome was built. A little above it is a hydropathic clinic.

Story

In 1927, the Italian ruler of the Dodecanese, Mario Lago, initiated a systematic study of the medicinal properties of local waters. In parallel with this, the construction of a hydropathic complex was carried out. The project was developed by Pietro Lombardi, who was recognized as the best in terms of architectural composition.
The Kallithea Thermae hydrotherapy resort was first opened on July 1, 1929. Large-scale studies have shown that the local chloride and hypotonic thermal waters of the springs heal some ailments.
The hydropathic clinic existed until 1967, then it was closed for an unspecified period. The thermal baths were reopened only 40 years later. Until July 1, 2007, a long-term and full-scale restoration took place, after which the health resort opened its doors to visitors.
Today, the healing baths of Kaletea represent a unique combination of natural gifts with incomparable monumental architecture and history.

Neighborhood

An art gallery was built not far from the source. In an enclosed area of ​​the specially equipped Big Rotunda in the hydropathic clinic, the dome here reaches 14 meters in height, exhibition events of contemporary artists and painters of different times are held. Here you can also visit a permanent photo exhibition that characterizes the present and past of the healing springs. Cultural events, festivals, concerts and art exhibitions are often organized here.
The healing baths of Kallithea attract a huge number of tourists from all over the world. Not far from the hydropathic clinic there is a delightful beach where tourists always have crystal clear water. This is a favorite swimming spot in the area. The richness of the underwater world has led to the development of diving here. In addition to swimming, visitors have the opportunity to admire the picturesque bay, the unique natural beauty of the area, and amazing mosaic compositions made of pebbles.
For a relaxing break with a cup of coffee surrounded by the beauty of nature, you can go to the historic resort cafe near the picturesque harbor with a pier.

Treatment

Indications for treatment are as follows: drinking therapy cures diseases of enteropathy or the gastrointestinal tract, dyspeptic disorders, chronic constipation, and also prevents the development of liver and biliary diseases.

One hot day of this June, when we were vacationing in Rhodes, I heard in the morning: “Listen, let’s go to the Kallithea Baths today!”

“Therms? – I answered. - In this heat??? No!”

And she was wrong! Because these thermal baths are not active, but the place definitely deserves a visit. Its other name is Kallithea Springs. I’ll tell you what it is and why you need to go there.

Inactive beauty

In general, to put it briefly, this is how it happened. At the beginning of the last century, there were active hot springs at this place (which, by the way, were known back in Ancient Greece). In 1929, the Italians, who owned the island at that time, built very nice baths or baths there in a pseudo-Moorish style, which were used for their intended purpose for a long time.


But then an earthquake happened and the springs almost completely collapsed. The complex was abandoned for a long time, and then they began to restore it. Now this is just a very beautiful place where exhibitions are held and which is often rented for weddings, corporate events, fashion shows and other similar events. They say that in the future, perhaps, the baths will be restored.


How to get to Kallithea Springs

First of all, it is important to understand that in Rhodes there is the village of Kallithea, and there is this point Kallithea Springs, which is located on the coast. And the village lies a few kilometers from the sea.

Those who rent a car can drive directly to the entrance to the complex, those who travel by bus can conveniently go to the stop of the same name on KTEL flights, which serves that part of the island, but we, according to tradition, went on foot, since this part travel was based in Faliraki, from which Kallithea Springs is about 6 km.


We went and didn’t regret it at all. At first the path passes by hotels, but as soon as you leave the city, you find yourself in amazing beauty, where you can admire the sea from the cliffs, and then walk through a beautiful coniferous grove where trees called pefki, better known to many as pine trees, grow. It's quiet there, and there's an absolutely incredible aroma!


What's inside?


And now we have reached the entrance to Kallithea Springs. There is parking nearby and a small beach and cafe below. There are cash registers at the entrance, and then the beauty begins! A snow-white complex with rotundas, arches and passages, a floor laid out with local Khokhlaki (or Kohlaki) pebble mosaics, every now and then opening views of the sea, and a very picturesque garden with flowers and herbs. Very, very beautiful place!


The complex has a restaurant (decent, with average prices), a free toilet and a tiny cove where you can swim, snorkel or just enjoy the views. Many people arrive in the bay on boats and sail around them.


There are several exhibitions inside the buildings. There are very interesting photographs that tell about the history of the thermal baths, mostly photos date back to the 50-60s. Another exhibition tells about films that were filmed in this area. In addition, you can look at paintings and sculptures by contemporary artists (as I understand, this part is temporary exhibitions).


If you wish, you can spend the whole day there, walking, enjoying this dizzying air, having lunch and swimming. When we were there, there weren’t too many people, so we could calmly and comfortably explore everything and relax, without rushing anywhere.


Entrance fee and opening hours

To visit Kallithea Spring you need to buy a ticket for 3 EUR.

| How to get there | | Thermal Baths

Kallithea Springs on the island of Rhodes is a popular historical attraction of Rhodes, which over time has turned into a beach resort.

Thermal history of Rhodes

In ancient times, the baths of Kallithea functioned at full capacity, but then they were abandoned and, unfortunately, nothing remained of the ancient Greek baths. At the beginning of the last century, the Italians, who occupied the island at that time, restored the mineral thermal resort and it began operating again as a spa and balneology center.

The project was carried out by the famous architect of the time, Alberto Lombardi, who breathed new life into the thermal healing complex of Kallithea. The Second World War brought active life to a standstill in Kallithea, and by 1967 the baths fell into disrepair again.

It was only at the end of the last decade that the municipality of Kallithea brought the amazing natural wealth of the island back to life! In 2007, the treatment center, which helps get rid of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, again opened its doors to visitors. The modern hydrotherapy complex has been recreated as a kind of architectural copy of ancient baths; it consists of large and small rotundas in which they drink medicinal water, relax, enjoy exhibition exhibits, as well as a beautiful snow-white gallery through which visitors walk.

Where are the baths of Rhodes Kallithea

The Kallithea Baths are located in Kallithea Bay, 9 km from the center of Rhodes - the capital of the island of the same name.

Thermae of Rhodes - indications for treatment

The temperature of the mineral water is about +19°C. The water of the springs in Kallithea is cold (hypotonic), containing chlorine and sodium ions, having a low radioactive level.

Therapeutic indications: water is used as mineral drinking water in the treatment of infections of the intestines and gastrointestinal tract.

Thermal baths of Rhodes and beach holidays

In addition to drinking mineral water, the Kallithea baths in Rhodes offer an excellent beach holiday. Having paid 3 euros for entry and passing through the gallery down to the sea bay, tourists find themselves in a small bay filled with well-warmed sea water, since the depths here are shallow.

The beach is equipped with everything you need - sun loungers, umbrellas for a reasonable fee (6 euros) during the opening hours of the thermal baths, and after 20.00 entry to the beach is completely free.

In Kallithea Bay you can often find

Kallithea is a fairly lively resort area on the island of Rhodes, beloved by tourists who appreciate good beaches and excellent hotels. The Mediterranean climate in Kallithea provides a comfortable holiday for both adults and children. Kallithea is located just 8 kilometers from the capital of Rhodes, relatively close to the airport, and also very close to its nightclubs, bars and discos.

The resort is formed by three small villages - Kallithea, Psinthos and Koskinou, and its name speaks for itself, because in Greek “Kalithea” means “Good View”. Psinthos is a village that surprises tourists with houses painted in an untraditional blue color for Greece. The village of Koskinu is known as a place where all kinds of folk crafts flourish - its residents are engaged in pottery, weaving, embroidery, and carpet making.

To purchase products from Koskino craftsmen, you don’t have to look for a shop selling souvenirs - just walk along the quiet green streets of the village to see that the walls of the houses are literally hung with all kinds of souvenirs. Koskinou has several taverns where you can relax and enjoy traditional Greek dishes.

Psinthos is a village that surprises tourists with houses painted in an unconventional blue color for Greece.

Kallithea, the largest of the three villages, is located on the coast. This is where most of the tourist sites are located - hotels, hotel complexes, beaches, as well as restaurants, bars, taverns and other establishments whose doors are always open to guests.

In Kallithea there are famous baths - they existed in ancient times, then were destroyed and rebuilt during the reign of Mussolini. Several years ago, the Kallithea baths were restored and opened to visitors, who have the opportunity to see the place where healing springs once came out of the ground, walk through the halls of the hydropathic clinic, and get acquainted with the history of Kallithea - both ancient and modern.

How to get to Kallithea

The closest airport to Kallithea, where tourists arrive, is located in the vicinity of the capital Rhodes. It accepts both domestic and international flights, so air is the best way to get to Kallithea. Well, find cheap air tickets to Rhodes.

Buses to Kallithea depart from Rhodes, which is not difficult to get to from the airport - transport runs between the city and the airport terminal from morning to evening. Buses to the east coast, where Kallithea is located, depart from Piazza Rimini.

You can also get to Kallithea by taxi - the cost of a comfortable car trip is quite affordable, since the distance between the airport and the destination is small. You can try to find a car at the terminal or order it in advance online.

Residents of the village of Koskinu are real experts in the art of pottery, weaving, embroidery and carpet making

The second option is especially successful if you arrive with bulky luggage or a large group. The driver meets passengers at the exit from the baggage claim area with a sign with their names indicated at the time of booking. Taking into account the needs of passengers, you can order a car with a spacious trunk, pre-installed child seats, etc.

The main advantages of ordering a taxi online are the cost of the transfer known in advance (the system calculates it automatically) and the absence of the need to pay for downtime at the airport in case of flight delay or cancellation.

The company providing the service independently monitors the arrival of all flights and sends the car on time. All details regarding the upcoming trip are sent to the passenger’s e-mail immediately after ordering. Make a preliminary trip calculation for free.

The most popular excursion from the resort is a trip to the capital of the island

Car rental services in Rhodes are no less popular. But there is also a nuance here. During the peak season, the demand for car rental in Rhodes jumps significantly, which immediately affects both the available range and prices. European tourists have long mastered booking a car in advance, using popular price comparison services, while our tourists, for the most part, still have to be content with what is left.

There are only two ways out of this situation: either hope that after the Europeans there will be at least something left in place at an adequate cost, or you can master comparison and pre-booking services yourself. Grekoblog made a separate video about many useful nuances on how to save on car rental in Greece. Well, the link to the service is right below it.

Climate and weather in Kallithea

The climate in Kallithea is similar to other Mediterranean resorts - the summers here are quite long and very warm, the winters are mild and traditionally wet. The holiday season in Kallithea begins around mid-May and ends in mid-autumn.

The summer temperature in Kallithea ranges from +26C in June to +40C in August, the sea water warms up to +24C, and there is practically no precipitation. The winter weather of Kallithea is noticeably different from the summer - it often rains, and the temperature drops to +12C.

Excursions in Kallithea

The main and, perhaps, the only attraction of Kallithea is the thermal baths. Tourists who choose Kallithea as their holiday destination go there to stroll through the park, see the beautiful rotundas with massive arches and columns and magnificent mosaic floors, and see the gallery in which paintings are exhibited, as well as photographs with footage from films filmed in Rhodes.

The main attraction of Kallithea is the thermal baths.

Vacationers who are tired of lying on the beach can go on one of the excursions from Kallithea - tourist routes cover the entire island, allowing you to see the most interesting sights of Rhodes.

The most popular excursion is a trip to the capital of the island. There is a lot to see in Rhodes - a medieval fortress, the Street of Knights, the Palace of the Grand Masters, the Knights' Hospital, in the building of which the Archaeological Museum is located.

The port where the famous Colossus of Rhodes once met ships is also worthy of attention. The place of the giant statue that stood here is now occupied by columns with figures of deer, which are the symbol of the island.

The holiday season begins in mid-May and lasts until mid-October

Those interested in Greek history should take a tour. This ancient city is proud of its own Acropolis - the second most important after Athens, as well as ancient fountains created during the Byzantine Empire. Another famous landmark of Lindos on Rhodes is St. Paul's Bay, where, according to legend, the apostle came ashore to preach Christianity on the island.

Excursion routes in the western part of Rhodes cover the fortresses of Monolithos and Kastello, the ruins of the ancient city of Kamiros, as well as Mount Filerimos, on the slopes of which lies a museum complex surrounded by a magnificent park.

To make it easier to choose the most interesting route, we have prepared a special rating for the summer season. An alternative way to explore Rhodes is to create an individual excursion to suit your needs with the help of a guide. About Athena, a Russian-speaking guide in Rhodes, whom Grekoblog knows personally.

At the entrance to the port of Mandraki stood the famous Colossus of Rhodes - one of the seven wonders of the world

Beaches

The beaches of Kallithea undoubtedly deserve attention - located in cozy bays, surrounded by an amazing forest in which palm trees coexist with pine trees, they delight tourists with magnificent views.

The largest beach of the resort is located in Kallithea Bay, here you will find all possible beach activities - water skiing, banana boats, parachutes, catamarans, canoes. During the holiday season, a diving center operates in Kallithea; its services can be used by both experienced swimmers and beginner divers.

Anthony Quinn Beach is considered the most beautiful in the resort

Another beach, well equipped, but much calmer and secluded, is located nearby - in Ladiko Bay. If you go a little further, you will see the most beautiful beach of Kallithea, named after Anthony Quinn, an American actor who took part in the filming of the film “The Guns of Navarone”, which took place in Rhodes. True, it is not very convenient for swimming, since the shore here is rocky, but this does not frighten vacationers at all.

The sunny island of Rhodes attracts travelers from all over the world with its colorful views, developed industry and the hospitality of the local people. Rhodes is the fourth largest of all the Greek islands. In total there are more than a thousand islands, of which 227 are inhabited. The island of Rhodes is washed by the Aegean and Mediterranean seas. The Aegean Sea is choppy, with large waves and frequent winds. And the Mediterranean is calm, warm, transparent. It is this sea that washes Kallithea in Rhodes.

Kallithea (Rhodes) translated from Greek means “beautiful view”. There are two resorts with this name in Greece. One is located on the Chalkidiki peninsula, along the Toroneo coast. It is popular among vacationers as a city that skillfully combines wild parties and relaxed beach holidays.

The second resort of Kallithea, or as it is also called - Kallithea, is located in the village of the island of Rhodes. A quiet, cozy resort with mineral springs, pine forests, clean beaches. This sunny place, which attracts all photographers in the world, will be discussed in this article.

General information about the resort of Rhodes (Kalithea)

As part of territorial reforms, Kallithea joined Rhodes in 2011. The village is located on the northeastern coast of Greece, 7 kilometers south of the island of Rhodes. The total area is 109 square kilometers. The coastline is washed by the Mediterranean Sea. The village stretches 6 kilometers in length.

Kallithea on the map

Geographical coordinates:

  • Latitude: 36°20′N;
  • Longitude: 28°10′E.

The time zone with Moscow is the same, there is no time difference. According to official data, the village is inhabited by a little more than 9 thousand inhabitants. Spoken language is Greek. Since the resort is popular, local Greeks most often speak English.

Climatic conditions, weather

The climate in Kallithea is mild, Mediterranean. The summer months are hot, but the sea breeze makes the heat bearable. In winter, the temperature drops to +13 °C. The humidity is high, although it does not rain often.

Average temperatures by month (Kalithea, Rhodes):

  • January: +11 °C during the day, +7 °C at night;
  • February: +12 °C during the day, +8 °C at night;
  • March: +14 °C during the day, +10 °C at night;
  • April: +17 °C during the day, +13 °C at night;
  • May: +22 °C during the day, +17 °C at night;
  • June: +26 °C during the day, +22 °C at night;
  • July: +30 °C during the day, +25 °C at night;
  • August: +32 °C during the day, +25 °C at night;
  • September: +26 °C during the day, +21 °C at night;
  • October: +21 °C during the day, +17 °C at night;
  • November: +17 °C during the day, +14 °C at night;
  • December: +13 °C during the day, +9 °C at night.

The hottest month is August; on some days the temperature reaches +40 °C. The sea water temperature ranges from +26 to +28 °C in summer, and +16...+18 °C in the autumn-winter season. At the same time, the sea remains clean throughout the year. There is significantly less precipitation per year than in Rhodes. There are more than 300 sunny days a year in Kallithea.

Attractions

Tourists from all over the world travel to the village of Kallithea Rhodes to see the main attraction - the thermal springs.

Thermal springs

History of thermal springs

In ancient times, Kallithea (Rhodes) was famous for its springs with hot water gushing out from underground. According to legends, the gods of Olympus relaxed in these thermal baths. After swimming in this water, a person gets sick less, recovers from colds, inflammation of the genitourinary system, and infertility. It is difficult to say whether this is actually true, because at the moment the baths of Kallithea in Rhodes are only a tourist attraction. After the Second World War, the springs dried up and their locations became deserted. In 2000, this territory was restored and opened to tourists, giving them the opportunity to see historical places with their own eyes. SPA complexes have been operating here since 2008.

While in these places, you can see centuries-old buildings of mineral springs. In addition, there is a beautiful rotunda. This is a large building in the shape of a cylinder with a dome. There are many corridors inside, and historical photographs and paintings hang on the walls, illustrating the history of this place.

On a note! Movies are often filmed here, wedding ceremonies and other romantic evenings are held. And also near the rotunda there are wild rocks, from which the view opens onto the vast sea.

Near the springs there is an excellent opportunity to swim and sunbathe on the paid Kallithea beach. Entrance to the beach area costs a few euros. Near the embankment there are cafes, restaurants, and shops.

If you have a strong desire to swim in natural thermal water, you should go to the resort of Loutraki, located on the Perahora peninsula. The water temperature here is about 30 °C, and there are relaxing baths and jacuzzi.

Note! Not all people are allowed to swim in thermal springs. If a person has diseases such as oncology, asthma, hypertension, heart disease and others, be sure to consult a doctor!

Interesting places nearby

In addition to the sources, tourists have places to go for vivid impressions. For example, a water park and Luna Park. Located 15 minutes drive from the center of Kallithea, in Faliraki. You can get there by public transport, private car or taxi.

Beaches

Beaches occupy a leading place among the advantages of Kallithea Rhodes. Although they are small, there are many of them and they are well equipped. Sun loungers, sunbeds, umbrellas and other equipment are paid. Facilities include several toilets and showers. The beach is sandy and clean. The entrance to the sea is convenient for children; it is quite shallow near the shore. The water is clear, there are bridges down into the sea. Along the embankment there are cafes, supermarkets, taverns, and restaurants. In the evening it is especially romantic and cozy, the lanterns are lit, live music is playing, and dancers are entertaining.

From entertainment:

  • Diving. Including a diving school. The clearest sea allows you to look into the underwater world, get a good look at starfish, fish of different colors, and octopuses. Diving departures take place daily from Mandraki Harbour. Dive to a depth of 30 meters. Beginners - to a depth of no more than 5 meters. Visibility up to 27 meters. Prices for 1 day diving tour average 50 euros*.
  • Jet ski and banana boat rides.
  • Catamarans, canoes.
  • Traveling on boats across the sea.

Basically, the beaches of Kallithea will appeal to those who love a measured, relaxing holiday. According to traveler reviews, the most original beaches in Kallithea are: Тassos Beach, Oasis Beach, Nicolas Beach Cantina.

Interesting! The beaches in Kallithea have been awarded the Blue Flag. To receive the quality mark, the coast goes through a series of strict requirements.

Hotels nearby

In Kallithea there is where to stay for tourists. Hotels have different price categories, from economy to elite class.

Budget hotel options:

  • House Marigo;
  • Virtual Pilot;
  • Stavros Melathron Studios;
  • Romantza Mare.

The average cost in these apartments is 7 thousand rubles* per day for 2 adults. Amenities are minimal, rooms are small, but these hotels are in great demand.

Hotels in close proximity to the beach:

  • The Kresten Royal Villas & Spa;
  • Kresten Palace;
  • Mitsis Alila Resort & Spa.

Seasonal prices are significantly higher than budget prices, on average 20 thousand* per night for two adults. But there are correspondingly more amenities, the rooms are spacious and breakfast and wi-fi are included.

Premium hotels:

  • Villa Cleopatra;
  • Faliraki View Villa;
  • Antigone Estate;
  • Aldemar Paradise Royal Mare 5*.

Is it worth talking about what amenities these hotels have? It has everything: huge rooms, a gym, spa treatments, swimming pools, free parking and so on. Average price from 40 thousand rubles* for 3 days of stay.

A full description of the desired hotel can be found on their website. Early booking is also a convenient option.

How to get there

Buses go to Kallithea from the center of Rhodes. The ride takes on average 15 minutes. Buses leave from the bus station every half hour. The most convenient way is to rent a car, the average price is 20 euros per day*. A taxi will cost at least 7 euros*.

Note! There are taxi drivers who turn off the taximeter during the trip, so you need to be vigilant.

Kallithea is a place for people who prefer a more relaxing holiday. Clean beaches, comfortable hotels, interesting ancient places and stunning landscapes. If you want a whirlwind vacation, you can easily get to nearby cities and see the surrounding area.

* Prices are as of September 2018.