Gadoura Dam

Nestled away from the bustling coastal areas of Rhodes, Gadoura Dam offers a remarkably peaceful and often breathtaking retreat into the island's quieter, more natural landscape. While its primary function is water retention, this site has become a unique point of interest for those seeking tranquility, scenic drives, and a stark contrast to the typical island tourist spots.

Location and Accessibility 🗺️

Gadoura Dam is situated inland on Rhodes, making it a truly "middle of nowhere" destination, which contributes significantly to its serene atmosphere. The journey to the dam is an integral part of the experience, requiring careful navigation and an adventurous spirit.

Road Conditions:

1. While some parts of the approach roads are normal paved surfaces, a significant portion, particularly closer to the dam and around the reservoir, consists of unpaved, dusty tracks.
2. Visitors frequently report encountering potholes and uneven terrain, necessitating a slower pace and attentive driving.
3. Despite the challenging conditions, a standard hire car (like a Toyota Yaris) is generally reported as passable, though care is advised.
4. Given its remote location, a concern about potential breakdowns is understandable for some visitors.

It's highly recommended to have a car with air conditioning, especially during the warmer summer months, to ensure a comfortable journey.

What to Expect and See 🏞️

Gadoura Dam offers more than just a large water barrier; it's a destination for natural beauty and quiet contemplation.

The Dam Itself:

The water level at Gadoura Dam can vary significantly. During periods of low water, the dam may appear less impressive in terms of water volume. However, this lower level often presents a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the spillway, where fascinating acoustics can create "spooky echoes" at the bottom.

Natural Beauty & Wildlife:

The surrounding area is universally praised for its beautiful scenery, providing a refreshing change from the island's rocky coastlines. Visitors have been delighted to spot wildlife, most notably deer, including impressive stags, making a visit even more memorable for nature enthusiasts.

Many find the dam area to be an ideal spot to simply "chill out," embracing the quiet and peaceful ambiance. Driving around the entire reservoir is possible, offering varying views of the landscape, though be prepared for more unpaved sections.

Tips for Your Visit ✨

• Bring Snacks & Drinks: Given its remote location, there are no facilities nearby, so come prepared with refreshments.
• Drive Carefully: Take your time on the unpaved roads, especially those with potholes.
• Visit for Serenity: While the dam itself might not always be full, the area's main draw is its peaceful, secluded natural setting.
• Keep an Eye Out for Wildlife: Deer sightings are a common and delightful bonus.
• Consider it an Adventure: The journey is part of the experience, offering a glimpse into a less-explored side of Rhodes.

Gadoura Dam is certainly "one for the geeks" and those who appreciate off-the-beaten-path destinations. It's a fantastic spot for a quiet escape, offering beautiful views and a chance to connect with nature away from the crowds.

Great place for a walk or drive, but do not follow the Google Maps route as you're usually not allowed off road with a rental car. Drive around and find the proper entrance road

A truly breathtaking place to visit, a stark contrast to the somewhat bleak stone covered coastlines. Bring snacks and you will need a car with AC during the summer months, but it is something really worth visiting.Most of the roads up to the dam itself are normal paved roads, however we took the dirt track from the 'viewing spot' (Google maps name) to the dam itself and it was passable in a Toyota Yaris.

One for the geeks. The water level was very low so we could walk along the spillway. The echos at the bottom are spooky. You can drive round the whole reservoir but the majority is unpaved although passable in a normal car. Virtually deserted when we visited.

A great place to come to during the spring to connect with nature and take in some of the more adventurous sights the island has to offer. Make sure you have plenty of gasoline in your tanks and good tires before coming here.Great place for picnics and hiking. Camping could be possible. No swimming allowed by the dam.Do not come during rainy days or after rainy days unless you have a 4x4 vehicle otherwise you risk getting stuck on some of the less stable roads.Have a back up plan in case you get stuck, especially if you’re with someone who may need to take medications or something.Beware rockslides.Beware wasps and bees, especially if you’re allergic.European cat snake is the only dangerous snake in the area but they pose little threat to humans. Be careful with your dogs.There are lots of goats around. Birds nesting in some of the shorter trees as well. Ants and spiders as well, especially if you’re hiking you’ll see them.Signs will guide your way. Cellphone reception for European phones is pretty good. Make sure you have battery in case something happens.No bathrooms around, so make sure you have toilet paper in case nature calls.No trash cans around, so please pick up after yourself.Avoid fires. Do not smoke here and if you do, please put out your cigarettes responsibly.

No much to see as dam very low. Very peaceful but watch the roads getting to there. Very dusty and lots of pot holes. I’d be a bit worried breaking down here. In the middle nowhere. But enjoyed the views