A beautiful coastal walk on Rhodes' eastern coast, from the village of Lindos north along clifftops and beaches to the fishing village of Stegna. The path crosses several beautiful coves with clear swimming water and offers continuous views of the Turkish coast.
The coastal walk from Lindos to Stegna follows the eastern shore of Rhodes in the South Aegean region of Greece, connecting two contrasting settlements along 12 kilometres of clifftops, secluded coves, and rocky headlands. The route starts in Lindos — home to one of the ancient world's most spectacular acropolis sites — and traces the coastline north to the quiet fishing village of Stegna, with continuous views across the clear Aegean toward the Turkish coast.
The trailhead is in Lindos village, 47 kilometres south of Rhodes Town. Parking is available at the edge of the village, as vehicles are prohibited in the historic centre. No permit is required. The path begins by climbing above Lindos Bay, offering views back toward the Acropolis on its cliff, before joining a mix of dirt tracks, goat paths, and occasional paved sections that hug the clifftop edge.
Distance is 12 kilometres one way with approximately 200 metres of cumulative elevation gain across several undulating coastal headlands. The surface is predominantly loose rock and compacted earth, with exposed roots and occasional smooth limestone slabs near cliff edges. Some sections require careful foot placement, particularly when wet. Sturdy footwear with good grip is essential; trail shoes or light hiking boots are recommended.
Key landmarks along the route include the small Chapel of Agios Ioannis above Lindos Bay, several unnamed coves with crystal-clear water suitable for swimming, and the view south from the Haraki headland back toward Lindos and its fortified hill. The Turkish coast is visible throughout on clear days. The best swimming coves are found approximately 4 and 7 kilometres north of Lindos.
There are no water sources along the route; all water must be carried from Lindos. No cafes, shops, or shelter exist between the two villages. The trail is recommended as a one-way walk with a vehicle or taxi pre-arranged at Stegna for the return. Buses from Stegna to Rhodes Town run infrequently; checking schedules in advance is important.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Rhodes
- Best season
- April-June, September-October
Highlights
- Lindos Acropolis view
- Secluded coves for swimming
- Views to Turkey
- Traditional villages
Tips for visiting
- Wear sturdy footwear — the path is rocky in sections
- Bring swimwear for the coves along the way
- Arrange return transport in advance
When to visit
April to June and September to October offer the most comfortable conditions for the exposed coastal route with minimal shade. July and August bring intense heat; an early morning start before 7 AM is essential if walking in summer. The trail should be avoided in strong southerly winds, which can create hazardous conditions near cliff edges.
Accessibility
The Lindos to Stegna coastal walk follows rough, uneven terrain across clifftops and rocky paths with no adapted infrastructure along the route. It is not accessible for wheelchair users or strollers. Visitors with limited mobility can access the Lindos village viewpoints and the lower Acropolis approach independently, but the coastal trail itself is unsuitable.
Frequently asked questions
Is the path between Lindos and Stegna an officially waymarked trail?
The route follows a combination of informal coastal tracks and local paths that are not formally waymarked throughout. Carrying a GPS track downloaded from a hiking app is strongly recommended, particularly for sections away from the clifftop edge where the path is less obvious.
Are there beaches or swimming spots along the way?
Several small, often unnamed coves with clear water are accessible directly from the path at roughly 4 and 7 kilometres from Lindos. These are typically pebbly or rocky rather than sandy and offer excellent snorkelling in calm conditions. Swimwear and reef shoes are useful additions to the pack.
How do hikers return from Stegna to Lindos or Rhodes Town?
Public buses from Stegna are infrequent; pre-arranging a taxi from Stegna or leaving a second vehicle there is the most practical approach. Taxis from Lindos can be booked through accommodation in the village the evening before.
Can the walk be shortened?
Yes, the route can be broken at Haraki village (approximately 7 km from Lindos), which has some facilities and occasional bus connections to Rhodes Town. This makes a practical half-day option for those who do not wish to complete the full 12 km to Stegna.