Filerimos Cross

Perched atop a mountain on Rhodes Island, the Filerimos Cross and its surrounding attractions offer visitors a unique blend of history, nature, and spectacular panoramic vistas. This popular tourist attraction, located at Unnamed Road, Rodos 851 01, Greece, is widely praised for its incredible views and serene atmosphere, making it a highly recommended stop on your Rhodes itinerary.

The Iconic Filerimos Cross and Unrivalled Views 🔭

The Filerimos Cross itself is a prominent landmark, visible even from the airport, signifying its elevated position. Visitors consistently highlight the amazing, stunning, and impressive views from this spot. You can gaze upon the sprawling coast, the central valley, and the wider island landscape. A particularly fascinating aspect mentioned by visitors is the unique vantage point for watching planes landing at the nearby airport, as you are often higher than the approaching aircraft.

However, it is important to note a disappointment for some: the viewing platforms at the top of the cross have been closed off for safety concerns for several years. Additionally, the sculptural plaques that once adorned the approach avenue have been removed for safekeeping. Despite these closures, the ground-level views remain a significant draw.

The Monastery and Surrounding Grounds 🕊️

Adjacent to the Cross is a lovely monastery. While the monastery itself requires an entrance fee, the surrounding grounds are free to explore. This site holds historical significance, as the monastery was built upon the ruins of an old temple, with small remnants of the ancient structures still visible. The grounds are also famously home to an abundance of wildlife, including numerous peacocks roaming freely, and even some goats, adding to the picturesque and natural charm of the area. A small shop on site even sells food for the peacocks, allowing for interactive experiences.

Access and Practical Information 🚗🚶‍♀️

Reaching Filerimos Cross is an adventure in itself. The drive up is described as steep and winding, with some significant drops offering dramatic views as you ascend. While not always massively well-signposted, the journey is considered well worth the effort once you arrive. There is ample car parking available at the top.

For those who prefer a more active approach, a moderate walk from Rhodes Bay is possible. This can be an 18km round trip, taking approximately 4 hours. It's important to be aware that there is no dedicated footpath for walkers, so care is needed. The walk does offer cool pine trees and a tap halfway up the hill, but walkers should take plenty of water.

Upon arrival, visitors will find a cafe at the top, perfect for refreshments. There is also a small stall selling various goods and drinks. A key piece of practical advice is that there are no toilets in the non-paid areas, so plan accordingly.

Overall Experience

Filerimos Cross is widely regarded as a "lovely little place to visit" that truly delivers on its promise of amazing views. Despite minor drawbacks like the closed cross viewing platforms and lack of free toilet facilities, the combination of historical interest, natural beauty, unique wildlife, and breathtaking scenery makes it a highly enjoyable and memorable attraction on Rhodes Island.

This spot is truly breathtaking, with stunning scenery all around. The trails are perfect for a good hike, and the views from the top are incredible. It's a great place to get away from it all and enjoy nature. Pack a lunch and spend the day exploring the area. You won't be disappointed with the natural beauty this place has to offer.

Great spot for a 180° veiw as well as plane spotting. It's also great for those who are religious with the main focus being the cross and a small church set alongside it.Spectacular views, great areas to walk and plenty of peacocks roaming too.

Lovely little place to visit, with an amazing view! Car park at the top. You have to pay to go in the monastery, but to get to the cross is free. Loads of peacocks walking around with goats. Nice drive up as well. Was great to watch the planes coming in. There are no toilets in the non paid area. There is a small shop which sells goods and drinks.

Not massively well signpost but worth it when you do , road up is steep and winding with some mega drops on one side , giving good views as you climb up .Plenty of parking and a cafe at the top small stall seling bitsWe didn't go in to the monstery which you have to pay for , the cross and grounds are free . The views from by the cross are amazing. Was interesting watching the planes landing at the airport as we were higher than them . Heaps of peacocks wondering around , the shop sells food for them.

Moderate walk from Rhodes Bay. About 18km there and back in 4 hours.Lovely views at the top of the coast, central valley and the rest of the island.Take care while walking. There’s no footpath. Cool pine trees, one tap halfway up the hill. Cafe at the top. Take plenty of water.