by Sarah Cleaves

Created on: July 16, 2009

Often referred to as the island of the sun, Rhodes enjoys a lively tourist scene during the summer months, when the whole island seems to shine. Whether you are interested in strolling through the ancient ruins, sliding through the water park or just lazing about on the beech, there is plenty to do. However, Rhodes is an island that is full of life all year round, and although tourism shuts down in the winter, the island does not. In fact it is in the winter that the true Greek flavour of the island really gets a chance to rise to the surface.

Rhodes is a truly beautiful island with ancient monuments standing proud in the midst of traditional villages and a great expanse of mountainous green countryside just waiting to be explored. This is no less true in the winter than it is in the summer and there is still plenty to keep the eager sightseer busy in the somewhat shorter winter days.

Stepping into Nature

The rich green countryside which may be a lot to handle in the heat of the summer can be enjoyed at leisure in the winter. Great forests of fragrant pine trees stretch across the mountainside and offer a real treat for those interested in wildlife and nature. Long walks can be difficult to cope with in the blistering heat of the summer, but in the winter when temperatures average 14C 17C such walks are a lot more bearable.

If you prefer not to venture out into the mountains you can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the calming pine trees of Rodini Park without ever leaving the city of Rhodes. Situated on the outskirts of the city it was the first landscaped park the world had ever seen. It was very popular with the Romans who built an aqueduct in the park, the remains of which can still be seen there today. After walking no more than ten minutes into the park, through the trees which lend a tranquil atmosphere, you may come across the tomb of Ptolemies dug into the rock and decorated on each side by Doric half columns.

For those less interested in the monuments of the park, they can enjoy a relaxing walk amongst the cypress and pine trees which are home not only to the peacocks that live and breed in the park, but to the animals of the small zoo there. With a children's play area in the park as well, it is a place that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Taking a Stroll Through History

The Old Town of Rhodes with its high sandy coloured walls and majestic palace is also worth a look. Though the tourist shops and wide variety of restaurants will

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