Sun, Sea, and Serenity: A Dreamy Escape to Rhodes

There’s something magical about Greek islands — the warm breeze, the sun dancing on the Aegean, and a timeless charm that makes you feel worlds away from the everyday. My recent trip to Rhodes was exactly that: a perfect blend of sunshine, exploration, and indulgence.

My Stay: The Ixian Grand Hotel & Suites

I was hosted at the Ixian Grand Hotel & Suites, a luxurious adults-only beachfront retreat in Ixia. From the moment we arrived, the hospitality was unmatched. We were warmly welcomed by our host, Demetris, then enjoyed some free time to take a dip in the pool and sample the all-inclusive. We downloaded the handy app where you can find a host of information, and to our delight, you can order drinks to your sunbeds from here. The next day, Maria gave us a personal tour of the resort — her warmth and attention to detail were immediately incredible. She shared helpful tips on making the most of our stay and even gave us a sneak peek at some of the hidden gems on the property. The hotel itself is an oasis of calm, with elegant architecture and palm-lined gardens that create a peaceful, contemporary atmosphere. I stayed in a Design suite, which was spacious, light-filled, and with lots of modern amenities. There are 11 different room types to choose from with sea views, Jacuzzis and private pools. My favourite was the swim-up beach suite, which is perfect for honeymooners. For the ultimate experience, Ixian All Suites is a premium wing of the hotel, offering enhanced privacy and elevated service. Guests staying in these suites enjoy access to a private check-in lounge, a dedicated breakfast restaurant, and VIP amenities. The suites in this section offer top-tier comfort in a truly tranquil setting. On our final day, we were treated to a massage in the hotel‘s spa. Cristina was fantastic, and the room was full of delightful smells.

Culinary Delights at the Ixian Grand

One of the standout features of our stay was the exceptional dining. The resort offers a range of restaurants, each with its own vibe and menu, but what they all have in common is the quality and creativity of the food.

• Vis à Vis was our go-to spot for breakfast, where mornings began with fresh fruit, warm pastries, made-to-order omelettes, and Greek yoghurt drizzled with honey. Sitting out on the terrace with a cappuccino in hand, watching the sea sparkle in the morning light, was the perfect start to every day.
• Milonges, the Greek à la carte restaurant, was a true highlight. We dined here one evening under the stars, savouring modern takes on traditional dishes — think melt-in-your-mouth lamb kleftiko, perfectly grilled seabass, and mezze that burst with flavour. Please save yourself, as the food just keeps coming.
• For something more international, we tried Muza Htista, the Pan-Asian fusion restaurant, which served up delicious sushi rolls and spicy Thai-inspired dishes — a surprising but delightful contrast to the island’s traditional fare. The service across all dining areas was thoughtful and attentive, always with a smile. Whether we were sipping cocktails at the beachfront bar or enjoying a leisurely multi-course dinner, we felt completely spoiled.

Exploring Ixia: Activities Within Walking Distance of The Ixian Grand & All Suites

While The Ixian Grand & All Suites offers a luxurious and relaxing retreat, the surrounding area of Ixia provides a variety of activities and attractions easily accessible on foot. Just steps from the hotel, the Ixia Beach promenade offers a scenic route for leisurely walks or jogs along the coastline. The area is known for its stunning sunsets and is a popular spot for windsurfing and other water sports, thanks to the lovely breezes. There are a number of local bars and tavernas all with a welcoming smile and a cold Mythos beer. About a 15-minute walk from the hotel, the town of Ialysos features various shops and boutiques where you can purchase local crafts, souvenirs, and essentials.

Wandering Through History: Rhodes Town

A short drive from the hotel brought us to Rhodes Town, where history lives and breathes within its medieval walls. The Old Town is a labyrinth of cobbled streets, Byzantine churches, and charming squares. Walking through the Street of the Knights and visiting the Palace of the Grand Master felt like stepping back in time. We loved getting lost in the alleyways, discovering quiet courtyards, quirky boutiques, and family-run cafes tucked away in stone archways.

A Day Trip to Lindos: Whitewashed Wonder

One of the days was spent exploring Lindos, a picturesque village of whitewashed houses and winding alleys that tumble down to the sea. The climb to the Acropolis of Lindos was well worth the effort, rewarding us with panoramic views over the coastline and turquoise waters of St. Paul’s Bay. The entry is 20 euros, but if you choose not to go to the top, you can still enjoy the views. We cooled off with a Mythos, then wandered back into the village for some souvenir shopping.

Lunch with a View: Stegna Kozas

No trip to Rhodes would be complete without a long, lazy lunch by the sea — and Stegna Kozas wowed us from the start. Nestled right on the water’s edge in the quiet village of Stegna, this seafood taverna is the stuff of legends. We ordered a seafood feast and in true Greek style passed it up and down the table. I loved the calamari and the ceviche, which were prepared to perfection. Everything was simple, fresh, and full of flavour. The atmosphere — barefoot casual with waves lapping just meters away — made it one of the best meals of the trip.

Final Thoughts

Rhodes was everything I hoped it would be — and more. From the warm hospitality at the Ixian Grand to the cultural richness of Rhodes Town, every moment was amazing. If you‘re looking for a Greek island getaway that combines relaxation, luxury, and a dash of adventure, Rhodes — and the Ixian Grand — should be at the top of your list.