Gennadi
The village of Gennadi is part of the Municipality of Southern Rhodes. It has a population of approximately 600 inhabitants throughout the year. It is a 60 minute drive from the airport and Rhodes Town. Gennadi Village is located between the sea and the mountains thus offering magnificent views. Gennadi is known for its beautiful sunrises and is also a good place if you’re into nature as the mountain range and the undisturbed flora and fauna are worth a visit.
In the village you will be able to find a post office, a pharmacy, a supermarket, a greengrocers, a bakery, a tourist shops, a motorcycle hire company, ATM, bus and taxi services. There is also a good selection of bars and tavernas. Check out the Central Bar, The Lab, Antika Bar and Cocoon Lounge Bar. Our favourites tavernas are Mama's Kitchen, Zorbas and Sergios, which serve a selection of traditional greek dishes and fantastic homemade pizzas.
Some Italian architecture, such as the Police Station, ads interest to the otherwise totally Greek atmosphere. Characteristic of the architecture of the houses are the tall exterior walls which were built in the past to protect the village against pirate raids An Olive Press Museum and a number of natural spring water taps are located here and highlight the traditional atmosphere of the village. In the vicinity of the settlement, in a place called Pano Vrissi, there is an ancient cave that features ice-cold spring water that originates from a waterfall in the area, which then runs through the cave. It’s clean and drinkable, and, in fact, it feeds the many taps scattered all over the village square. This cave has been a source of great interest for archaeologists, who have spent a lot of time digging up fascinating artefacts that date back to pre-historic times.
A walk through the narrow streets and steps will lead you to the two beautiful Byzantine churches of Ioannis Theologos, a 19th century church, and the church of Saint Anastasia, a 12th century church. The church of Saint Anastasia was built on pre-existing foundations that go back to the 6th century AD. The interior of the church is embellished with 13th and 17th century frescoes depicting the life of Jesus and the Virgin, in the naïve style, which is very different to other frescoes in Rhodes, so it’s worth a visit. This is also the site of the village cemetery.
One of Gennadi’s main attractions is the beautiful beach. It is made up of a mix of sand and gravel and stretches for many kilometres on either side, extending from Gennadi down to Prasonissi. The seas and beach here enjoy the distinct reputation of being one of the cleanest on the island. There are three tavernas located on the beach front, each serving delicious, traditional, fresh food, refreshing drinks and ice creams.
Gennadi is also home to two of the best beach bars in Rhodes, Sposa and Mojito Beach. Sposa is within walking distance of Villa Alexander, take the right turn at the Dimos (Town Hall) on the main road towards Kiotari. Mojito beach is 5km from Gennadi towards Prassonissi, turn left at sign and follow the track to the beach.
Local Villages
Vati is a small village just inland from Gennadi. The village is built on a plain and surrounded by a series of mountains, forests and olive groves. The village derives its name from a word meaning 'crossing point' or 'pass'. Vati is a place ideal for walking and searching for the hidden Italian army camps in the forests. From the guardhouse at Saint John is a great view over the south of Rhodes.
Asklipio is a small but lively village about 9 km from Gennadi. The Byzantine church in the square is well worth a visit. The interior of the church, which was built in 1060, has extraordinary fine Byzantine wall paintings. In the church's old olive press there is a small folklore museum. Asklipio castle at the top of the hill is a medieval fortification which offers a marvellous view of the beach stretching endlessly from Kiotari all the way to Gennadi.
Lachania is a small, beautifully picturesque village 11 km south of Gennadi. In the small square is the church of Saint George build in 19th century. Just off the square is an old Olive press, the “Magana”, which has been renovated as a Cultural Centre for local and foreign artists.
Pefkos is a fifteen minute drive and has a host of cocktail bars, restaurants and tavernas. The glass bottom boat trip from Pefkos is wonderful. Simply take the sign from the main street and prepare yourself for a boat ride that you wont forget. Take the camera but remember clothes may get a little wet! Don’t forget your swimwear and towels as you will get the chance to swim in the crystal clear waters, beer and soft drinks are served onboard and the commentary is very entertaining.
Lardos is definitely a place that should be visited in the evening. The food in the restaurants and tavernas is excellent and the cocktail bars are friendly, be there for happy hour. There is also a good Go Kart track on the outskirts of the village that is open every day from morning until late at night.
Getting to Gennadi
A hire car can be picked up from the airport and returned there at the end of your stay. We can give you details of the car hire companies we recommend if you require. Although car hire is recommended there are plenty of Taxis available from the airport. The village is served by a regular bus service which will take you where you need to go at very low fares.
Contact and reservations
ShareRegistered with the Greek Tourism Board (EOT)
Licence no: 1476K100A0391101
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