Greek holiday island with £4 spas, 5* hotels and ‘barefoot prince’

THEY call him the barefoot Prince of Rhodes as he slips shoeless between crowded restaurant tables and greets customers with a big grin.

“You like fish, yes?” says Dimitri. “I’ll bring you everything!”
And that literally happens.

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A stunning array of seafood arrives at our small table at Stegna Kozas, overlooking the calm, clear waters in the pretty village of Stegna.

Huge chunks of crispy squid, tender clams and a steaming conch shell are followed by more deep-sea treasures – sliced ​​and pickled sea urchin, grilled octopus, deep-fried red fish in a golden crust.

The Greek salad glistening with olive oil and the garlic pitas are irresistible.

And even with full bellies, we’re jealous of all the sea bass and bream served to the other diners.

Dimitris is the third generation of Kozas serving the freshest seafood at this cracker restaurant, which is celebrating its centenary this year.

It’s obvious why the place has been around for so long and its most recent barefoot owner continues the tradition of making the island’s fish shine.

I have to thank the clever team at Ixian Grand & All Suites Hotel for the excellent recommendation.

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Manager Michaelis has loads of ideas for exploring the best of Rhodes although getting out of our swim up suite was a struggle.

The adults-only beach hotel 5H is located on the shores of the Aegean, with easy access to the beach and great views from its pools.

Rooms are chic with a cool, calm color palette, but it’s the private pools — some on rooftops, others hidden in the landscape — that’re hard to resist.

Our premier Sea View Suite is spacious and has an overwater deck with loungers where even in early summer a chance to cool off with a dip was welcome.

Opt for all-inclusive and you have a wide choice.

There is a buffet restaurant serving a good selection of fresh salads, meat and fish, as well as pizza and pasta.

And two à la carte restaurants promise relaxed fine dining.

Muza Htista has a whimsical Peruvian-Japanese theme.

And for traditional Greek delights, Milonges offers hearty fare for lunch and dinner.

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The specialty restaurants need to be booked in advance, but the snack bar near the pool was our go-to when we got hungry during the day, the gyro wraps a big hit with my other half.

Entertainment is low-key, with the lobby bar’s terrace overlooking the sea and pool bar perfect for an after-dinner nightcap.

For those looking for a bit more nightlife, Rhodes Town is 15 minutes away and easily accessible by bus or taxi.

We took a taxi after dinner to stroll through the pretty streets of the old town.

Younger clubbing fans should head to Orfanidou Bar Street to party until the early hours.

For those wanting to explore a little more of the island, car hire can be picked up for under £40 for a few days.

Lindos and its incredible cliff-top Acropolis with the 4th-century Temple of Athena are must-sees.

But go as early or late in the day as possible to avoid the crowds.

And prepare for a climb as you weave through the narrow, whitewashed streets.

Spring or fall are perfect seasons to explore, with plenty of sunshine but lower temperatures.

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Toast the sunset

Take a breather at one of the many lovely rooftop bars and restaurants and soak up some sun on the beach after climbing the cliffs.

The beaches of Lindos and Pallas have plenty of facilities, but the rocky cove at St Paul’s Bay offers a more relaxed, less crowded vibe.

On the way back to Ixian Grand & All Suites we stop at Kalithea Springs.

An art deco gem, this seaside thermal spa is welcoming back guests after a decade-long restoration program.

Entry costs five euros and after admiring the restored buildings and beautiful pebble mosaics, you can relax on the beach or take a dip in the clear waters.

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Or simply enjoy a coffee or a glass of wine in the hotel’s bar and restaurant.

Back at the hotel we take two loungers in the garden to enjoy the last rays of sunshine with beer and wine and toast the sunset.

Then it’s back to our room for a quick refreshment and another night of great food, once again served by friendly and attentive staff.

Our fellow guests’ ages range from Instagram-obsessed young adults in their 20’s to couples in their 60’s.

While it’s not right in the heart of the action on this popular Greek island, that’s a big part of its charm.

We enjoyed days exploring the treasures of Rhodes but also had time to relax by the pools, on the beach or at the hotel’s excellent spa.

It’s close enough to the action to keep younger guests happy, but secluded enough to ensure a truly relaxing, laid-back break.

You can almost see why the beautiful Dimitris from Stegna Kozas chooses to go barefoot.

A week at this beautiful resort and I would like to follow suit.