This route begins from the picturesque village of Salakos which is situated on the slopes of Mt. Profitis Ilias. Mt. Profitis Ilias is the third highest spot on the island of Rhodes. It is named after the monastery which is located at the summit of the mountain.
Salakos, Rhodes
The village of Salakos itself totally differs from the usual Rhodes postcard scenery as it is surrounded by thickly pine-covered slopes. Sheep and goats are a common sight as the locals of the village mostly live from agriculture. You can smell burning wood and wild sage which truly reminds you’re far off the usual tourist traps. A natural spring named Nymph is located in the village which also explains the rich vegetation.
In Salakos one can explore the herb scented mountains with breathtaking views - on a clear day you’re able to see the mountainscape of Anatolia across the sea.
The hiking route starting point is located at the first road curve after Hotel Nymph if you head from the village towards the mountain. The starting point is marked with wooden signs. Next to the starting point you will find a parking area.
The beginning of the path
The route is fairly challenging but the views on the route will keep you constantly energized. The path will take you through thick pine forests and sage-scented slopes. Once you pass the most challenging part there is a plain with wooden huts to have a picnic.
Mid-point hut
Besides the views, this hiking route is especially suitable for history buffs. Right before you reach the Hotels Elafos (in use) and Elafina (abandoned) you will find barracks from the 2nd World War that used to belong to the Italian army during the occupation. There are still remains from that time - such as a water fountain built in 1941 by the Italian army mechanician troops "Genio".
2nd World War Barracks
2nd World War fountain by the Italian Army
In the surrounding area on the opposite side of Hotels Elafina and Elafos you will find Villa de Vecchi which belonged to the Italian governor de Vecchi. Rumours say that Benito Mussolini was supposed to retire in this very building. The building is mysteriously beautiful. The view from the balcony is magnificent as you well see the pine slopes until the deep blue Mediterranean sea in one view. Next to the villa there is also an abandoned catholic church of St. George which one could say has an eerie feeling to it.
Villa de Vecchio
On the opposite side of the villa you will see the Hotels of Elafina and Elafos which were also built by Italians in 1929. The hotels have an unusual alpine architecture style. Elafina has been abandoned for many years but Elafos is still active and definitely worth the stay for a different Rhodian experience. The panoramic view from the balcony is like no other in Rhodes. Hotel Elafos has seen a lot as it has served as a lodge for Italian military officers during the 2nd World War. Later in the war it was used as a military hospital for German soldiers.
Abandoned Hotel Elafina
Next to the hotel there is the monastery of Prophet Elijah which was built by the locals in the mid-1800s. It is open for visitors so you can light a candle before heading back to Salakos. The summit of the mountain of Prophet Elias is at 798m. The duration for the hiking route is between 2,5 and 4 hours.
Prophet Elias Monastery
Hiking views from Salakos to Profitis Ilias
This hiking route has it all - it is challenging, the surroundings and the views are breathtaking, very interesting for history buffs and abandoned buildings for all the adventurers.
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