Take a boutique break in Rhodes

Mediterranean breaks needn’t all be about huge resorts and coach tours. Travellers wanting a more personalised holiday should look into staying at one of the boutique hotels on the Greek island of Rhodes.

Some of the best-kept secrets in the Medieval Old Town are the small luxury boutique hotels, which are hidden away in the winding streets. Many are in keeping with the architecture and style of the old town, which was founded 700 years ago.

For history-focused travellers, the Avalon Boutique Hotel is located in the fortress walls of the Medieval Old Town. It offers intimate breaks in one of its six suites, each of which has a different interior decoration focusing on a medieval theme with a modern twist. Flat screen televisions, Jacuzzi baths and wi-fi internet connections can be found in each of the rooms along with private verandas overlooking the harbour or old town. The Avalon hotel is currently offering five nights for the price of four. For more information and reservations visit avalonrhodes.gr.

Fashion conscious travellers should head to the Nikos Takis Fashion Hotel. Two fashion designers – Nikos and Takis - own the hotel and their style is reflected throughout. The hotel has seven suites; each individually designed offering the utmost luxury. It is located just a stone’s throw from the Grand Master’s Palace and the Street of the Knights. For more information and reservations visit nikostakishotel.com.

For eco-conscious travellers, the recently opened Spirit of the Knights boutique hotel should be considered. The building was restored with the help of the Greek archaeology department to retain its original qualities – it was built by the Crusaders and later altered by the Ottomans, giving it a mix of archaeological influences.

Spirit of the Knights is a family run hotel with a commitment to the environment, which includes the use of natural materials where possible during the restoration. There are only six suites, each of which is designed using inspiration from aspects of the medieval town. For more information and reservations visit rhodesluxuryhotel.com.

Rhodes Old Town is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest inhabited medieval town in Europe. Attractions in Rhodes Old Town include the Street of the Knights, the most important and imposing avenue of the town that includes the former residencies of the various nationalities of the Order of the Knights of St John.

The Street of the Knights leads up to the Grand Master’s Palace, which today serves as a museum containing important archaeological finds from ancient and modern Rhodes.

Boutique hotels offer a more intimate personalised experience and being in the heart of the Medieval Town allows for a unique stay. As well as being steeped in history the Medieval Old Town is full of cafés, shops, bars and restaurants, all built within the original walls surrounding the city. It is easy to get lost in the narrow, winding alleys, but this is part of the fun and the best way to uncover one of Rhodes’s hidden gems.

For information about Rhodes visit Rodosisland.gr.