St Stephen's Hill (Monte Smith)

Perched just 2 kilometers southwest of Rhodes Town, St. Stephen's Hill, affectionately known as Monte Smith, stands as a beacon of natural beauty and profound historical significance on the enchanting island of Rhodes. Bearing the address Isiodou, Rodos 851 00, Greece, this prominent tourist attraction offers an unparalleled blend of ancient wonders and breathtaking panoramic vistas, making it an absolute must-visit for any traveler.

Unrivaled Views & Serene Sunsets 🌅

One of the most consistently lauded aspects of Monte Smith is its truly spectacular views. Visitors are treated to panoramic sweeping vistas of Rhodes Town, the shimmering Aegean Sea, and on particularly clear days, even the distant Turkish coastline. It's a favorite spot, frequently highlighted in reviews, for witnessing some of the most beautiful sunsets imaginable. The blend of ancient ruins silhouetted against the vibrant sky creates a magical and unforgettable experience, drawing visitors back multiple times to soak in both day and evening beauty.

A Journey Through Ancient History ✨

More than just a viewpoint, Monte Smith is home to the remarkable Acropolis of Rhodes. This open archaeological park once served as a vital cultural and religious center during the Hellenistic period. Exploring the site allows you to step back in time and marvel at significant ruins, including:

1. The Temple of Pythian Apollo
2. The impressive Ancient Stadium of Rhodes, where athletic events once unfolded
3. The Odeon of Rhodes, a smaller theater used for musical performances and lectures

The hill's strategic height also played a military role throughout history, notably as a lookout point for British admiral Sir Sidney Smith during the Napoleonic Wars, lending it its modern name.

Peaceful Ambiance & Accessibility 🚶‍♀️🌳

Beyond its historical and scenic grandeur, Monte Smith offers a wonderfully peaceful and tranquil ambiance. Surrounded by lush greenery and equipped with walking paths, it's an ideal location for a leisurely stroll or a moment of quiet relaxation away from the bustling streets of Rhodes Town. This serene atmosphere makes it popular with both locals and tourists seeking a calm escape.

The site boasts excellent accessibility:

• It is open to visitors year-round.
• There are no entrance fees, making it an accessible experience for all.
• It's easily reachable by car, and for those who enjoy a walk, it's an easy and enjoyable hike from the Central Bus Station. Taxis are also an option for reaching the summit.

Tips for an Optimal Visit 📸

To fully enjoy your experience at St. Stephen's Hill, consider these recommendations from past visitors:

• Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to enjoy cooler weather and fewer crowds, especially if you plan to witness the stunning sunset.
• Bring comfortable shoes, as there are walking paths and a bit of a hike involved, although generally manageable for all levels.
• Don't forget water and a camera to capture the extraordinary views and historical landmarks.
• Consider combining your visit to Monte Smith with exploring other nearby attractions, such as the captivating medieval Old Town of Rhodes, for a full day of discovery.
• For hikers, May is noted as an ideal time, with pleasant average temperatures around 22 degrees, offering opportunities to encounter local wildlife like goats, birds, and cats along the trails.

Whether you are a history buff, a nature enthusiast, a keen photographer, or simply someone looking to experience the timeless beauty and tranquility of Rhodes, St. Stephen's Hill (Monte Smith) is an experience that comes highly recommended and should not be missed.

To be honest - probably the second most beatiful sunset I have ever seen in my life!St. Stephen’s Hill (Monte Smith), also known as Λόφος Αγίου Στεφάνου, is one of the most significant landmarks in Rhodes, located just 2 kilometers southwest of Rhodes Town. The hill is named after Saint Stephen, and its modern name, Monte Smith, originates from the British admiral Sir Sidney Smith, who used the hill as a strategic lookout point during the Napoleonic Wars.Key Features and Attractions:1. The Acropolis of Rhodes:• St. Stephen’s Hill is home to the ancient Acropolis of Rhodes, which served as a cultural and religious center during the Hellenistic period.• The acropolis is an open archaeological park showcasing important ruins, including:• The Temple of Pythian Apollo.• The Ancient Stadium of Rhodes.• The Odeon of Rhodes.2. Historical Significance:• The hill was a prominent site in antiquity, serving both as a religious sanctuary and a space for cultural activities such as athletics and music.• Its strategic height made it valuable for military purposes throughout history.3. Breathtaking Views:• The hill offers panoramic views of Rhodes Town, the Aegean Sea, and on clear days, even the Turkish coastline.• It’s a favorite spot for watching sunsets.4. Peaceful Ambiance:• Surrounded by greenery and walking paths, the hill is ideal for a leisurely stroll or a moment of relaxation away from the busy streets of Rhodes Town.• Its tranquil atmosphere makes it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.5. Accessibility:• The site is open to visitors year-round, with no entrance fees.• It’s easily accessible by car, on foot, or via public transportation from Rhodes Town.Tips for Visitors:• Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and fewer crowds.• Bring comfortable shoes, water, and a camera to capture the stunning views.• Combine your visit to Monte Smith with other nearby attractions, such as the medieval Old Town of Rhodes.St. Stephen’s Hill (Monte Smith) is a perfect destination for history lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience the timeless beauty of Rhodes.

The views were absolutely beautiful. Another great tour guide.

Amazing place with an amazing view of the Sea and city during the day and during the sunset.Went there 2 times to see the view during the day and also during the sunset. Each time, we walked up to the hill and it was an easy walk from the Central Bus station.Cannot recommend enough this place! It's a must see, if you are visiting Rhodes.

What an incredible view. It's a bit of a hike, and some people take a taxi up here, but the views are worth it.

Embarking on the hiking trail through Monte Smith in Greece is a delightful experience that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, ancient history, and encounters with local wildlife. The four-hour trail is easily accessible for hikers of all levels, making it an enjoyable adventure for everyone. As you traverse the path, breathtaking views of pristine nature, ancient acropolis buildings, and the serene seaside unfold before your eyes. Along the way, you may encounter playful goats, chirping birds, and friendly cats, adding to the charm of the journey. May, with its pleasant average temperature of 22 degrees, is the ideal time to embark on this hike, ensuring comfortable weather for exploration. From the picturesque landscapes to the rich historical remnants, the hike through Monte Smith provides an immersive and memorable experience for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and animal lovers alike.