The west coast loop: Ostrich Farm, Valley of the Butterflies and Ancient Kamiros by ATV

The west coast of Rhodes is windier, greener and far less visited than the east. It is also where three of the island's best family stops sit within a few kilometres of each other. This loop takes four to five hours from Rhodes town and is ideal for the ODESS 650cc ATV, which shrugs off the steeper inland roads.

Rhodes Ostrich Farm

About 25 km from town near Petaloudes, a family-run farm where you can see ostriches, emus, deer, goats, camels and other animals up close, and in some areas feed them. It is a relaxed hour, especially with children, and there is a small café for a break before the valley.

Valley of the Butterflies (Petaloudes)

A narrow, shaded gorge with wooden walkways, small waterfalls and, from roughly June to September, thousands of Jersey tiger moths resting on the trees. Walk quietly and do not disturb them: clapping to make them fly is discouraged because it exhausts the insects. Even outside the season it is one of the coolest, greenest walks on the island. Allow one to two hours.

Ancient Kamiros

Continue south along the coast road to Kamiros, one of the three ancient Doric cities of Rhodes. The ruins spread over a hillside above the sea: a temple, the agora, cisterns and a grid of streets and houses. Go late in the afternoon when the light is low and the site is quiet.

Where to eat

The fishing harbour of Kamiros Skala, a few kilometres further south, has seafood tavernas on the water. For a mountain alternative ride up to Embonas, the wine village on the slopes of Attavyros described on our Discover Rhodes page.

Route notes

• Total loop: roughly 90 to 100 km. Fuel in Paradisi or Soroni on the way out.
• The west coast can be gusty in the afternoon; keep both hands on the bars and reduce speed on exposed stretches.
• Wear a light layer: the valley is noticeably cooler than the coast.
• Combine with the Water Park on another day for a full family week.

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