RHODES NEW TOWN & ACROPOLIS

From the cruise ship dock/pier we drive up the hillside to Monte Smith, Acropolis of Rhodes City, for a panoramic view of the city. (Stop Visit Photos)

On the way we visit the Mandraki Old Harbor, (atop tall columns, stand the two-bronze deer - characteristic landmarks of the island) where according to tradition, the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, once stood. (Stop Visit Photos)

We will also view the north point of the island where the Mediterranean Sea (east coast) and the Aegean Sea(west coast) meet.

THE JOURNEY TO SOUTH WEST

The drive continues 55 kilometres / 37 miles, from the north east to the south west coast, using an inland route. The road passes through villages and densely wooded areas.

WINE FACTORY ESTATE OF ANASTASIA

On the way we stop near the Valley of the Butterflies at the small Wine factory Estate of Anastasia Triantafillou where they make high quality Organic Wines from the local white Athiri grape and the red Mandilari grape as well as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Grenache Rouge and Moschatel. They have a limited supply but you can sample their wines (tasting), usually they offer you village bread with olive oil. You can also have an olive oil tasting and honey tasting. You can get pictures of the ageing facilities as well. (Stop Visit Taste Photos)

EMBONAS VILLAGE

We continue along the mountain’s path south west to Embonas Village, the most important grape-producing village on the island. Embona is a mountainous village halfway up the Attavyros Mountain, it is the highest village at 800m / 2.600f. above sea level, situated in immense natural beauty and the views of the surrounding areas are awesome. Attavyros is the highest mountain on the island of Rhodes, it rises to a height of 1,215m. / 3.980f. and it lies to the south of the village, most of the vineyards are planted on its slopes and foothills.

CAVA STAFYLOS

Once we arrive at Embona village we visit the Cava Stafylos, here you can taste some of the best local wines and liqueurs made by Logothetis family, Giannis and Andonis (Father and Son). Their winery is only five years old, but the family’s experience with the vineyards began about three generations ago and they still make their own wines to these days. Their goal is to produce high quality wines in affordable prices. You can also taste Olive Oil, Honey and Spices. (Stop Visit Taste Photos)

MERKOURIS FAMILY WINERY

We continue with Dionysos Free Wine Tasting. Here you can taste a big variety of fresh wines without chemical interventions and the strong local spirit Souma (Souma from their grapes production in the traditional way of distillation). You are also offered olives, tomatoes, cheese, village bread and local fruits, usually grapes. (Stop Visit Taste Photos)

KOUNAKI WINERY

We visit the Kounaki Winery. It produces about 10 different types of wine that are available in very small quantities (2000 to 5000 bottles per label). Kounaki winery cultivates Greek varieties but also European varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Chardonnay, Tempranillo. During the season, the winery is open to visitors and offers products for testing. The winery is staffed with oenologist and all necessary and qualified personnel for vinification, viticulture and visitor service. (Stop Visit Taste Photos)

ALEXANDRIS WINERY

We visit Alexandris Winery. Here the philosophy of the winemaking focuses on the production of high quality wine that is bind by the ecosystem of mount Ataviros and expresses the uniqueness of the natural surroundings. To achieve this goal, the cultivation and vinification take place under special catering, using not only the knowledge but also by merging tradition with technology. (Stop Visit Taste Photos)

BREAK FOR TRADITIONAL LUNCH

Break for Delicious Snack or Lunch Experiences at a Greek traditional tavern / Rhodian cuisine and excellent homemade wines. (at your own expense)

Embona also is a known place by locals coming from everywhere to eat grilled meat. Here you can really feel the Greek life; the wineries and restaurants have the perfect traditional sensation.

BACK TO THE SHIP (or to the STARTING POINT)

We travel back along the West Coast, with its breath-taking views of the Aegean Sea, to your cruise ship. If you prefer to be taken to the Medieval City for independent browsing, you will be responsible for returning on foot to the ship, docked about a quarter-mile away.