Rhodes: Butterfly Valley and Seven Springs Valley Day Trip
If you’re looking to mix a bit of nature into your Rhodes holiday, this 7-hour coach tour hits two of the island’s most loved spots: Butterfly Valley and Seven Springs Valley. For just over $30, we found it a surprisingly good way to see some of Rhodes’ quieter, greener sides without the hassle of planning logistics ourselves. The tour offers enough time at each location for photos, short walks, and a relaxing meal.
What we especially appreciated were the scenic drives through Rhodes’ countryside and the chance to explore at our own pace, thanks to the generous free time. The guides’ local knowledge and the comfortable transport made the day smooth and enjoyable. However, if you’re not into walking or rugged terrain, some parts—like the uneven trails in Butterfly Valley—might be a bit challenging.
This trip suits travelers who love nature, appreciate good value, and don’t mind a bit of walking in exchange for stunning scenery. It’s ideal for those wanting a day outside the beaches, exploring Rhodes’ lush, less touristy spots.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Two top natural sites in one day make this a great value trip.
- Free time allows you to explore, take photos, or relax at your own pace.
- Comfortable transportation and a friendly driver make the day flow smoothly.
- Unpaved paths and uneven surfaces are part of the experience, so sturdy shoes are a must.
- Butterfly Valley might not have butterflies outside peak season but still offers memorable walks.
- Seven Springs features clear springs, lush greenery, and a charming restaurant.
Exploring Rhodes’ Natural Charms
Rhodes isn’t only about ancient ruins and sandy beaches; its natural beauty offers a different slice of the island. This tour is designed to showcase two of the most popular outdoor sites, giving you a taste of Rhodes’ lush, green countryside, along with its waterfalls, butterfly habitats, and tranquil springs.
The price point at just over $30 offers excellent value, especially considering transportation, entrance fees (in high season), and the chance to wander freely at each site. Plus, the local guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge—making the trip informative and enjoyable.
Itinerary Breakdown
The tour begins with a pickup from over 40 locations around Rhodes, making it easy to join from your hotel or nearby. After a roughly 45-minute drive along the coast, the bus pulls into Butterfly Valley (Petaloudes), where you get about two hours to explore.
Butterfly Valley Experience
Despite some reviews noting it’s too early in the season for butterflies, most visitors still find the walk worthwhile. We loved the way the paths wind alongside the Pelekanos River, where the rustic wooden bridges and waterfalls create a picture-perfect scene. The unpaved paths and steps are part of the charm but do require sturdy shoes and some level of mobility; consider this if you have walking difficulties.
Many reviews highlighted the beautiful scenery—even without butterflies—like Samantha’s comment that “the walk was a bit of a challenge, but I still enjoyed it.” The small natural history museum adds a touch of education, and hikers can climb to the Kalopetra Monastery for a panoramic view of the valley.
More Great Tours NearbyScenic Drive & Free Time
Following Butterfly Valley, you’ll hop back on the bus for a scenic 45-minute ride to Seven Springs Valley. Here, the lush greenery and cool climate make it a refreshing change of pace. The site features large plane and pine trees and a charming outdoor cafe overlooking the springs.
We loved walking through the narrow tunnel to reach the artificial lake, complete with a dam and waterfall—a bit of fun and adventure. The free time here is about 1 hour and 45 minutes, enough to relax, snap photos, or enjoy a leisurely lunch at the restaurant. Many travelers found the spacious grounds and beautiful natural surroundings a highlight, although some wished for a little more time to fully enjoy both the walk and the cafe.
What We Loved & What to Watch Out For
What stands out is the ease of transport and the balance of free time and guided elements. We appreciated having the freedom to explore at our own pace, whether that meant taking extra photos or simply soaking in the scenery. The comfortable bus rides and the friendly driver and guides helped keep the day relaxed and informative.
On the downside, some reviews pointed out that pathways can be uneven and involve some steep sections—be prepared with good walking shoes. Also, since the entrance fee to Butterfly Valley is additional (around 6 euros in high season), budget that in. If you’re visiting early or late in the season, butterflies may be scarce, but the walks and scenery still hold their appeal.
Food options at Seven Springs are limited, so consider bringing snacks or eating beforehand. The restaurant offers tasty local dishes, but the narrow window of free time can make dining a bit rushed.
Tour duration and group size tend to keep things manageable, and reviews suggest the timing at each site is well-judged, avoiding overly long waits or rushed visits.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This day trip is perfect for nature lovers, especially those who enjoy a mix of easy hiking and scenic photography. If you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate lush landscapes and tranquil settings over historical ruins, this is a lovely option. It’s also well-suited for first-time visitors wanting a guided, hassle-free way to see some of Rhodes’ natural highlights.
However, if mobility or walking in uneven terrain is a concern, or if butterflies are a must-see, you might want to plan accordingly—perhaps visiting Butterfly Valley in peak season or choosing a different tour.
Final Thoughts
This tour offers a surprisingly immersive nature experience for a modest price, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy Rhodes’ green side. The scenic drives, free exploration time, and friendly guides make it a valuable option for those eager to see the island beyond its beaches and ancient ruins.
While it’s not a tour for everyone—if you dislike walking or uneven paths, you might find parts of it challenging—it remains a strong choice for those wanting an authentic, outdoor experience with beautiful views and genuine moments of tranquility.
Overall, you’ll leave with great photos, a sense of the island’s natural diversity, and hopefully a few butterflies—seasonal or not. It’s a day that balances adventure, relaxation, and discovery, all at a very reasonable cost.
FAQ
Is there an entrance fee for Butterfly Valley?
Yes, the ticket costs around 6 euros in high season or 3 euros in low season, payable on site.
How long do we spend at each location?
You get about 2 hours at Butterfly Valley and 1 hour and 45 minutes at Seven Springs Valley, offering plenty of time for walking, photos, and relaxing.
Is the tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
While the bus ride is comfortable, the paths in Butterfly Valley involve uneven surfaces and steps, which may be difficult for those with mobility issues.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, water, and perhaps a hat or sunscreen for the outdoor walks.
Are food and drinks included?
No, these are not included. There’s a restaurant at Seven Springs for lunch, but it’s recommended to bring snacks or eat before the tour.
Can I customize the tour times?
Pickup times depend on your hotel location, and you’ll be contacted after booking. Check availability for the start times, typically between 8:45 AM and 10:00 AM.
Is it worth the price?
Considering the transportation, entrance fees (if applicable), and ample free time, many reviews find it a very good value for a day of outdoor exploration and natural beauty.