I picked up my rental car from RodosCars.gr just after breakfast. The process was quick, the staff friendly, and the car in perfect condition for a day of exploring. Having my own wheels meant I could set my own pace, take detours, and stop wherever the island caught my attention. I had planned a route that would mix nature, beaches, and scenic views, all within one day.
My first destination was Seven Springs (Epta Piges), a short drive inland from the coast. The road wound through small villages and olive groves, with morning light filtering through the trees. At the entrance, the air felt cooler, the shade of the pine forest making it a welcome start to the day. I followed the path alongside a stream until I reached the small lake formed by the seven springs. The highlight was walking through the narrow, dark tunnel where the water flows — a bit of an adventure and something you do not forget quickly. Emerging into the sunlight on the other side, the lake reflected green from the surrounding forest.
From there, I drove back toward the coast to Tsambika Beach. The golden sand stretched out before me, and the water was warm and inviting. I parked the car in the nearby lot and carried only the essentials to the quieter end of the beach. A quick swim was all I needed to refresh after the morning walk. The beach is long enough to never feel overcrowded, and from where I was, the view of the hills and the chapel of Tsambika above was a perfect backdrop.
By midday, I was ready for my next stop — Anthony Quinn Bay. The road there hugged the coastline, with glimpses of turquoise water appearing between the trees. The bay itself is a small cove surrounded by rocky slopes and pine trees, with water so clear you can see fish darting below. I took my mask and snorkel from the car and spent half an hour exploring underwater, watching schools of silver fish move as one. Back on shore, I sat on a rock and let the sun dry my skin, the smell of pine mixing with the salty breeze.
In the afternoon, I headed north along the coast toward Ixia. The drive was smooth, the sea always in view. Ixia is known for its steady winds, and when I arrived, windsurfers were already skimming across the water at impressive speed. I parked in a spot close to the beach and walked along the promenade, enjoying the open view and the sound of waves rolling onto the pebbles. As the sun began to set, the sky shifted into soft pinks and oranges, the horizon stretching endlessly. It was the perfect final stop of the day.
Driving back to return to my accommodation, I thought about how much I had been able to see in just one day because I had my own car. Public transport can only take you so far, and tours are tied to fixed schedules. With my rental from RodosCars.gr, I had the freedom to linger where I wanted, skip the crowds, and discover my own version of Rhodes. From cool forest springs to golden sands, from a pine-framed bay to a windy sunset beach, this road trip showed me how varied and beautiful the island really is.
