Mount Profitis Ilias in Rhodes

Profitis Ilias 798 meters above sea level is one of Rhodes' highest mountains. On most Greek islands there is a mountain called Profitis Ilias, often it is the island's highest mountain. But not on Rhodes where Ataviros between the villages of Embonas and Agios Isidoros southwest of Profitis Ilias is the highest with its 1,215 meters. To get to Profitis Ilias, drive via Salakos or Epta Piges.

Hotel Elafos at Profitis Ilias.

Profitis Ilias in Rhodes is unusual in that it is possible to drive there, other Profitis Ilias mountains are usually so inaccessible that it is almost always possible to hike there. On all the mountains that bear the name Profitis Ilias there is a chapel dedicated to the Prophet Ilias. The reason for building chapels and churches on high mountains is to get as close to God as possible. Ilias also means God.

There is a cafe outside the hotel.

It was a little general about Profitis Ilias. What is it then that makes Profitis Ilias on Rhodes a sight to see? Apart from being able to drive there? The view, of course. But not only that, the road there alone is worth the trip, the landscape is very beautiful. The sweeping view is best seen from the fancy Elafos Hotel.

The hotel was built by the Italians during their occupation of Rhodes. I wouldn't mind staying a few nights at Elafos. Unfortunately, the room rates are not compatible with my wallet. However, it costs nothing to come in and have a look. The hotel reminds me of Agatha Christie's world and I know exactly what I would read if I lived there. If you like the idea of staying overnight, you can book Hotel Elafos here.

From the abandoned villa.

Above the hotel is an abandoned villa that also offers beautiful views. The villa was also built by the Italians during the occupation. In the once stately house, the Greek royal couple King Paul and Queen Frederika lived from the end of the Second World War until the end of the 1950s. No one knows why they moved, it was probably due to a lack of interest. They had 10-15 similar dwellings around Greece so they had a lot to choose from.

View from the abandoned villa in Profitis Ilias.

The villa has been empty ever since the royal couple moved. Which is extremely sad because it is a magnificent villa built with the greatest possible carpentry joy. From the road, a worn staircase leads up to the house. Don't miss the chance to fantasize yourself back to bygone times when royalty and celebrities of the time enjoyed themselves, danced and had cocktail parties in the villa.

Read more about Rhodes here »