Places of interest and activities
This page gives you an overview of places of interest and activities in the immediate surroundings of Villa Odysseus. Whether you are looking for relaxation or want to get out and do things, you will find them in this list. This list is still under construction and new items will be published regularly.
Please let us know when you have a nice place of interest or activity you want to bring to the attention to the visitors of beautiful Rhodes.
Tsambika beach
From villa Odysseus, it takes only 5-10 minutes by car or about 30 minutes on foot.
With a shallow seabed and gentle waters, Tsambika Beach is a great swimming spot, especially for beginners and families with young children. Water sports like jet skiing and parasailing are on offer, and kids and adults alike will love the inflatable water parks. There are and restaurants on the beach and shower and bathroom facilities are available. Get in early to secure a sunbed front row by the sea (extra charge).
The area around Tsambika Beach is known for its delicious cuisine, which combines traditional Greek and Mediterranean flavors. Some of the must-try dishes include moussaka, souvlaki, and Greek salad. Seafood is also popular, with fresh fish and octopus being staples. Visitors can enjoy traditional cuisine at the many restaurants and tavernas throughout the area.
The beach is located on the eastern coast of Rhodes, near the village of Archangelos.
Holy Monastery of the Virgin Mary Tsambika
Opposite villa Odysseus Rhodes you can see the Tsambika Monastery, accessible via a steep road and stairway. This historic landmark is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and many people journey here seeking blessings of health and fertility.
To reach the top of the mountain to the monastery you need to follow a path in the woods with 300 steps, of different lengths, all numbered. It takes 15 minutes to cover them on foot.
The Miracle of the Holy Icon
Many centuries ago the icon of Panagia Tsambika was located at the Holy Monastery of Panagia Kykkos in Cyprus. Miraculously, the icon would leave Cyprus and arrive at the mountain Zambiki of the Archangel in Rhodes. On the opposite side, a humble shepherd saw a light shining, so he climbed the mountain and went to see what was there. He was amazed the light came from the icon of Panagia. It was from this point that the icon received its name ‘tsamba’ which in local dialect means ‘spark.’ The locals brought the icon back to the village, but it would leave and return to the spot where it was found. After three repeated attempts, they figured it was the will of Panagia to have a church built at this exact spot.
Rhodes Cooking Class
Less than 1,5 km from Villa Odysseus you will find Rhodes Cooking Class. Enjoy the warm hospitality in their traditional farmhouse and take home not just a souvenir, but a piece of true Rhodian experience. For more information you can email us at info@rhodescookingclass.com or fill out the contactform at the right side of this page. You’re more that welcome!
- Learn the cooking methods and secrets of Rhodian cuisine that you can share with your friends and family at home
- Discover the secrets of the healthy Mediterranean diet
- Sample local wines and treats
- Experience the culture of Rhodes island in a local farmhouse
- Enjoy a fabulous Greek meal that you helped prepare
