Embonas village - tradition, wine and singing

The village of Embonas is situated on the slopes of the mountain of Attavyros and is the highest village on the island of Rhodes with an altitude of 850 m above sea level. Embonas is also one of the island's major wine producers, which is reflected in its surroundings, which are literally dotted with vineyards. Olives and pears, for example, are also widely grown here and beekeeping is also practiced by the locals. Together with the neighbouring villages of Kritinia and Mandriko, it is one of the most productive areas in Rhodes.

Embonas is a very traditional village, where some of the old customs are still followed, the locals are often seen in traditional dress and it is most busy during the grape harvest, when various festivals are held, including the traditional vintage. It is probably not surprising that there are several (mostly family-run) wineries in the village. Among tourists, the Emery winery is probably the most famous, where guided tours are organised and, of course, tasting of the delicious local wines. But you can also visit the wineries of Kounakis, Merkouris or Alexandris, where they will also be happy to help you and where the certainly aforementioned tasting will take place.

If you go to Embonas during the harvest season, grapes are sold directly in baskets on the street. But don't forget to taste and buy also other great local products such as quality olive oil or pure, natural honey from the surrounding meadows and forests. In addition to several cosy taverns, cafes and shops selling traditional products, you can also find a room to rent in the village. When walking through the village you will see a large white church with a bell tower and you can also visit the Folklore Museum.

Points of interest in the Embonas area

In close proximity to the village there is a protected natural monument, a large cypress forest (covering an area of almost 1.5 km2). From Embonas you can also climb to the very top of the highest mountain of Rhodes, Attavyros (1 251 m above sea level), where you will see the ruins of the Temple of Zeus, built by the first king of Crete (Minoan period).

But there are also good views from the village of Embonas itself, where you can see all the way to the coast and the adjacent islands of Aliminia and Halki. On the coast (about 14 km away) are the remains of Kritinia Castle.

More touristic destinations of Rhodes

Close resorts: Kamiros Skala, Kritinia, Mandriko

Most favourite resorts of Rhodes: Afandou, Archangelos, Faliraki, Ialyssos, Ixia, Kalithea, Kiotari, Kolymbia, Koskinou (Reni Koskinou), Lardos, Lindos, Rhodes (city)

Resorts, beaches, sights or trips - clearly listed on the map of Rhodes.