Lindos holidays

Lindos also has two gorgeous beaches – a long stretch of sand at the bottom of the hill and the smaller Pallas Beach just beyond the cliff. Both are well equipped with sun loungers and seafood restaurants, but it’s their sugary soft sand and clear, shallow seas that are the real drawcard.

Away from the beach, there are plenty of day trips worth leaving the sunbed for. Explore historic Rhodes Town, take a cruise along the coast, or relax at the Kallithea Springs. To the west, there are castles to discover and in the south, you’ll find windswept beaches that are a haven for windsurfers. With a base in Lindos, you’re perfectly positioned to see it all.

In winter, things slow right down with many bars and hotels closing from November to March. While it’s certainly not sunbathing weather, with temperatures dropping to 9C in January and February, it’s still a great time for sightseeing. The sun is softer and, if you’re lucky, you may even get the acropolis to yourself.

Watching over the whitewashed village from its hilltop position, Lindos Acropolis is a must-see. Much of this restored site is upright, thanks to centuries of fortification efforts by the ancient Greeks, Romans and the Knights of St John. There’s still plenty to explore, and inside the stone battlements, you’ll find the Temple of Athena Lindia and a magnificent colonnade.

The 15-minute climb rewards you with spectacular views but get there early if you can – you’ll beat the crowds and avoid the scorching midday sun.

Lindos Beach

Lindos’ main beach is a wide stretch of soft sand that leads gently into the sea – ideal for families seeking a shallow spot. Waters are calm here too, thanks to natural protection from the wind, meaning it’s perfect for a spot of paddling.

There are also sunbeds, watersports – everything from pedalos to jet skis – and several restaurants to choose from nearby, so you’ll be all set for a day of sunbathing and swimming.

St Paul’s Bay

Looking down from the Acropolis, you’ll see a glistening pocket of aquamarine surrounded by a rocky shelter. This pretty beach, about 10-minutes’ walk south of Lindos village, is the romantic St Paul’s Bay.

It’s a dreamy setting for a lazy day by the sea; the water is crystal clear, the tavernas serve local specialities, and it doesn’t get as busy as the main beaches. A tiny white chapel overlooks the water and it’s not uncommon for couples to say their vows here.

Rhodes Town

Whether you’re visiting the island for its epic history or not, a trip to Rhodes Town has lots to offer everyone. In the old town, you’ll find avenues of shops, cute cafes and charming bars that are great for a pick-me-ups when the heat gets a little too stifling.

The sightseeing is endless, too. For the highlights, take the old town wall walk to get your bearings while treading on 14th-century stone, then head to the Palace of the Grand Master, the Street of the Knights, and the Archaeological Museum.

Diving

Whether you’re a first-timer or an underwater expert, the sea surrounding Lindos is great for diving. Waters are warm and clear in summer – expect to see all sorts of marine life, from green turtles to large schools of fish, in the colourful corals, caves and shipwrecks.

Several dive centres offer PADI-certified courses, as well as day trips tailored to experienced divers and snorkelers.