A rare natural habitat on Rhodes
Would you like to get closer to nature and get to know its beauties? The Valley of the Butterflies, in the northern part of Rhodes, is an earthly paradise you will not want to leave. It is one of the few places in Europe where zities trees (oriental sweetgum trees) thrive. Thanks to the juice they secrete, the Panaxia Quadripunctaria butterflies are gathered by the thousands, with the characteristic orange shades on their wings.
You can observe them mainly during the summer months, from May to September, resting on the trunks of the trees. It is recommended to be as quiet as possible so as not to disturb their tranquility. After all, the valley is full of beauties that soothe the soul.
Stroll next to ferns, plane trees, oak trees, pine trees and other centuries-old trees. Stand on the wooden bridges and cool your eyes by observing the waters of the Pelekanos River that flows into the park forming small waterfalls and ponds in some places.
Climb the stone stairs leading to the top of the valley, to the Holy Monastery of Panagia Kalopetra, built in 1782 by Alexandros Ypsilantis.
Do not forget to visit the Natural History Museum of Rhodes, within the park, to admire samples of flora and fauna of the wider area, butterfly species and a butterfly hatchery. In the same area there is a library and a modern botanical laboratory.
For a refreshing break, head to the park's cafeteria, following the relevant marked signs on the tree trunks.
Discover the Valley of the Butterflies and get to know one of the most unique natural habitats of Rhodes.
You can observe them mainly during the summer months, from May to September, resting on the trunks of the trees. It is recommended to be as quiet as possible so as not to disturb their tranquility. After all, the valley is full of beauties that soothe the soul.
Stroll next to ferns, plane trees, oak trees, pine trees and other centuries-old trees. Stand on the wooden bridges and cool your eyes by observing the waters of the Pelekanos River that flows into the park forming small waterfalls and ponds in some places.
Climb the stone stairs leading to the top of the valley, to the Holy Monastery of Panagia Kalopetra, built in 1782 by Alexandros Ypsilantis.
Do not forget to visit the Natural History Museum of Rhodes, within the park, to admire samples of flora and fauna of the wider area, butterfly species and a butterfly hatchery. In the same area there is a library and a modern botanical laboratory.
For a refreshing break, head to the park's cafeteria, following the relevant marked signs on the tree trunks.
Discover the Valley of the Butterflies and get to know one of the most unique natural habitats of Rhodes.
