Kiotari, on the Greek island of Rhodes, is a wonderful place for a getaway if you’re looking for a relaxing, less bustling kind of holiday than you might expect of a typical beach resort. Over the past couple of decades, it has evolved from a sleepy fishing village to a very desirable, modern destination, dotted with a host of luxury hotels and resorts along its lovely long beachfront.
This kind of purpose-built resort is not for everyone, but Kiotari manages to pull off the very difficult task of retaining a charming personality while still being popular, yet without ever feeling like you’re surrounded by hordes of tourists. Much of this can be attributed to the fact that a lot of the accommodation is “all-inclusive”, meaning that the properties are very much self-contained. There is a small town centre with some shops, restaurants and supermarkets, though.
However, the real beauty is Kiotari’s unbeatable location, which puts it in easy proximity to all the cultural, historical, and sightseeing highlights of Rhodes. So, it’s true: this is one place you really can have it all!
Kiotari’s Top 5
With a prime position on the largest of the Dodecanese islands, there’s plenty to love about Kiotari. Here’s our Top Five, but you’ll no doubt be able to add some more yourself…
The Beach
There was no way the Top 5 was ever not going to start with the beach; even for Rhodes (which has so many stunning beaches) it’s impressive. A combination of sand and pebbles, the shoreline stretches for around 300 metres and is lapped by gorgeous clear, shallow waters. It’s well-facilitated with toilets and showers, and there are plenty of umbrellas and sunbeds to rent if you’re looking to relax and work on your tan. There are numerous restaurants and cafes along the beachfront, but there’s also a lovely cafe right on the beach, where you can get cold drinks and snacks, and sit on the stools to take in the ocean views. It really is picture perfect…
Top Tip: Take an early morning stroll along the beach before anyone else gets moving and it really will feel like you have it to yourself!
The Watersports
While of course the watersports take place on the beach, we think they deserve their own discussion. Because the area is so popular with water sports aficionados, there are several dedicated centres offering a great range of sports to try – for complete novices or seasoned experts. As well as being able to hire equipment and heading out independently, the operators offer courses and programmes to suit all ages and abilities. Fancy trying your hand at something new? Here’s what’s on offer:
- Windsurfing
- Waterskiing
- Wakeboarding
- Banana boat
- Jet bike
- Parasailing
The Day Cruises
When you’re on an island, there’s no better way to get a true perspective of where you’re staying than from the ocean. You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to getting out on the water here, with everything from invigorating speedboat rides, to private luxury catamaran cruises, and tranquil sunset cruises, complete with food and wine. Taking in the beautiful south-east coastline of Rhodes, some of the cruise destinations include Lindos, Symi Island, St George’s Bay and Rhodes Town. If you’re reasonably confident, you can also hire your own small boat and head out on a private adventure, mooring in small bays and picnicking on deserted beaches. Sounds heavenly? It is!
The Proximity
As touched on in the introduction, Kiotari is perfectly placed as a base from which to explore the entire island – but particularly the east coast. The resort is just 60 kilometres from Rhodes Town, which takes about an hour by road, and just 20 minutes from Lindos. It also situates you a short drive south to Prasonisi, which has become a mecca for windsurfing in recent years. For culture buffs, Rhodes Old Town is brimming with history, a host of medieval architecture adorning its charming cobbled streets. It makes for a wonderful day trip, and you can still be back in time for a beach walk and swim before dinner!
The Monastery
That’s not to say Kiotari doesn’t have its own historical attraction. Dating back to Byzantine times (fifteenth-century), the Church of the Transfiguration of the Saviour is the oldest structure in the town. Still in use today, the Eastern Orthodox church is a small, single-roomed structure, with a masonry roof and a Roman altar. It’s well worth a visit for a look around inside if you’re interested in the history of Greek religious architecture. It’s also set in a very picturesque position, very close to the ocean.
Where to Stay
Lindos Imperial Resort & Spa: With a stunning location right on the beachfront, this outstanding resort delivers world-class service and accommodation. You can choose from sea or garden view rooms, and take advantage of the extensive amenities, including 7 restaurants, bars, a spa centre, 4 pools, and 24-hour desk service. The ultimate place to relax and rejuvenate!
Mayia Exclusive Resort & Spa: This fantastic adults-only resort offers a 5-star accommodation, an oceanfront position, and an all-inclusive gastronomic experience! The sophisticated rooms offer sweeping views over the Aegean, and the onsite amenities include the best of everything, including restaurants, pools, sun terrace, gym, and a high-end spa.
Lindos Breeze Beach Hotel: Set in a lovely quiet location, just 700m from the beach, this high quality hotel wraps you in comfort, style and serenity. The well-appointed, air-conditioned rooms offer lovely views, terraces and enough space to feel truly at ease. Enjoy onsite dining, a garden, pools, fitness centre and many other luxury amenities, including a hot spring bath.
How to Get There
If you’re planning on a Greek escape to Kiotari, you’ll fly into Rhodes Airport (RHO). The average flight time from UK airports is around 4 hrs and 15 minutes, with numerous airlines servicing the route. You can get great deals at a range of times from British Airways, Jet2, easyJet, Ryanair and others. Flights start at £61 each way, and there are around 152 options a week.
Once you land, the best way of getting from Rhodes Airport to Kiotari is to book your onward transport with Shuttle Direct. A friendly local driver will be there to meet you and get you the rest of the way without delay.
Overview
UK to RHO Flight Time: 4 hour 14 minutes
RHO to Kiotari Distance: 64 kilometres
Shuttle Direct Transfer: 55 minutes approx.
Types of Transfer
Shuttle Direct can get you from Rhodes Airport to Kiotari with ease, no matter what your needs or your budget. Because every traveller is different, we don’t just offer a one size fits all solution.
If you like the privacy of travelling alone, but don’t have the budget for a private transfer, a pre-booked airport taxi is a fantastic option. You won’t have to stand in a queue with everyone else, because when you land, a driver and taxi will be waiting outside the terminal ready to get you from Rhodes to Kiotari without delay – and right to the door of your accommodation.
For anyone on a budget, or simply looking to save a bit of money, our shared shuttle bus services are ideal. You’ll meet at a designated point at the airport and be taken to a central drop-off point at the destination. Because you’ll be travelling with other passengers, it’s very cost effective, but the high standard of comfort and safety stay the same. You might even make some new friends along the way!
If you think a luxury door-to-door service is the only way to travel, you’re in luck! Our private Kiotari transfers deliver the comfort and style you’re looking for. A friendly, professional driver will meet you in the terminal, then escort you to a luxury vehicle and whisk you to the door of your accommodation in the fastest possible way.
If you’re travelling with a larger group of family or friends, a minibus transfer is the perfect solution to get you from the airport at Rhodes, while ensuring you all travel in the same vehicle. With plenty of room for everybody and their luggage, pre-booking a minibus takes away the logistical headaches of travelling in numbers.
Choosing the Right Transfer
Choosing the best Kiotari transfer for your needs and wants is a personal decision, but generally it’s going to be based on whether you want to prioritise cost or convenience.
Cost: If you’re looking for the most cost-effective onward transport, a shared shuttle bus will give you the comfort and safety you need, without the price tag. While it’s not a door-to-door option, the central drop-off point is always convenient to everything.
Convenience: However, if getting delivered right to the door of your accommodation is essential for you, and you don’t mind paying a little extra, then a pre-booked taxi or one of our luxury private services will give you exactly what you need.
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct is proud to offer one of the most extensive ranges of airport transfers to and from destinations all over Europe and the world. With a reputation for excellence and a service to suit any budget and style of travel, we provide a way to get you wherever you need to go. Professional drivers, safe, comfortable vehicles and service with a smile – and that’s just the start!
