Tsambika’s Hills trek
On the eastern side of Rhodes lies a hill renowned for its pointed conical shape on one of the world’s most beautiful amazing sandy beaches. Atop the hill sits a chapel dedicated to the Virgin, known locally as Panagia Tsambika. The chapel offers a stunning panoramic view, all the way from the northernmost tip of the island to the cape at Ancient Lindos. A breath-taking view and the perfect spot from which to observe the bright sky blend with the blue of the Mediterranean.
There are two ways to the top. One is along the western side of the hill up a small winding tarmac road which ends in 300 steps that lead up to the chapel. The second is more fun. It’s involves a perimetric trek around the hill starting on the southern side, at the edge of sandy Tsambika Beach.
Equipped with the necessary supplies, we’ll take you on the uphill perimetric route with the Mediterranean on your right and Tsambika Beach behind. Climbing the gentle slopes we’ll cross clearings amid the sparse pines and cypresses, and soon, heading north, we’ll come to a second rock, lower down than the final destination. Anyone who wants can follow as we climb the rock, while those who want to take in the view of the sea and beach can rest and gather their strength under the shade of the pines.
We’ll then regroup and continue upwards, starting to head west where there is an amazing natural vantage point that allows you to gaze down on Kolympia plain and Afantos, with its endless sandy beach that runs all the way to the next well known beach, Faliraki.
We are now on the western side of the hill and under the shade of the forest head towards our destination: the 300 steps that lead up to the hilltop. The steps help with the ascent but at almost every turn you can enjoy the view of Tsambika Beach.
The natural setting and grounds of the chapel are ample rewards for your efforts.
A 360o view, the scent of thyme and other herbs, a view along almost the entire eastern coastline of Rhodes, a revitalising feeling from the sheer power of this spot with its stone walls of the small chapel which is home to a famous icon of the Virgin, and the terracing of the grounds.
With half the trek over, we’ll head down to the plateau just beneath the hilltop for a spot of lunch comprising of Rhodian delicacies, well-baked village style bread and fresh eggs and Greece’s traditional cheese, feta. Savour the lunch with the amazing view as you guide regales you with information about the island’s history, traditions, flora and fauna.
After a relaxing break, we’ll head down towards the northernmost point of sandy Tsambika Beach. Under the shade of the pine, olive and cypress trees, there’ll be stops to take pics of the landscape bathed in sunlight, surrounded by the blue of sky and sea and the golden yellow sands.
An unforgettable outing is almost at its end. Almost … because there’s still the beach … a refreshing dip in the sea for anyone who wants one is the best way to indelibly mark every aspect of the day on memory and create the fondest recollections of the island of Rhodes.
