Hidden Garden

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about Hidden Garden? The name actually makes sense – which honestly isn’t always the case with hotels. It’s tucked away on this quiet stretch of Lindos Avenue in Afantou, and when you walk through the entrance, there’s this immediate sense of stepping into something more intimate than your typical Greek island resort.

I mean, Afantou isn’t exactly on every tourist’s radar like Lindos or Rhodes Town, but that’s sort of the point. The locals here still outnumber the visitors, especially if you’re staying outside of peak summer madness. The hotel sits in this sweet spot where you’re close enough to the action – about a 15-minute drive to Lindos’ famous acropolis, maybe 20 to Rhodes Old Town – but far enough away that you’re not dealing with cruise ship crowds stumbling past your window at midnight. The beach in Afantou is actually one of the longer stretches on the island, and it’s where you’ll see more Greek families than Instagram influencers, which I personally love.

What really got me about Hidden Garden was the attention to details that actually matter. The rooms have this lived-in elegance – not sterile luxury, but comfortable in a way that makes you want to leave your balcony doors open and let the evening breeze carry in the scent of jasmine from the gardens. Speaking of which, those gardens aren’t just for show. They’ve created these little pockets of shade and color throughout the property, with paths that wind between olive trees and bougainvillea that’s probably older than most of the guests. The pool area has this natural flow to it – none of that rigid sunbed formation you get at bigger resorts. You can actually find a quiet corner if you want to read, or join the friendly chaos near the bar if that’s more your speed.

The staff here – and I’m being completely honest – seem to genuinely care about whether you’re having a good time. Not in that overly rehearsed way, but more like they’re proud of their little corner of Rhodes and want you to see why. They’ll tell you which tavernas in the village are worth walking to (there are several, and the walk is lovely in the evening), or how to time your visit to Lindos to beat both the heat and the crowds. One of the front desk guys, Nikos I think, drew me this little map showing the best route to drive to Anthony Quinn Bay – those directions were better than anything Google Maps would have given me.

I’ll be straight with you though – if you’re looking for that big resort experience with water slides and animation teams, this isn’t it. Hidden Garden is more about settling into a rhythm, enjoying long dinners on your terrace, maybe having a drink by the pool while listening to the olive leaves rustle in the wind. The kind of place where you stop checking your phone as much and start noticing things like how the light changes on the hills across the valley throughout the day. With a 9.6 rating, clearly I’m not the only one who thinks they’ve got something special figured out here.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $126. Apartment with Balcony with 1 double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $171. Holiday Home with 1 extra-large double bed, 2 single beds and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Lloyd from United Kingdom – 19 July 2024 (9/10)

  Very comfortable bed, good facilities including shower gel shampoo etc. George and his father very friendly and helpful.

• Giacomo from United Kingdom – 3 July 2024 (10/10)

  The apartment is lovely, clean and cozy. The beach is even at walking distance. A car is however needed to better enjoy the island.
  
  What could be improved: Even better if an oven was available.

• Vibeke from Denmark – 2 October 2023 (10/10)

  I had a lovely week here at Hidden Garden at the end of September. Super apartment, helpful hosts. Easy to walk to the beach and shopping

• Petro from Ireland – 9 September 2023 (10/10)

  Just perfect place to stay in that price range. Absolutely lovely hosts George and his father, the nicest people and their hospitality is just top of the tops! The apartment is spacious. The bed comfortable. The internet works great. Lots of applications on TV where you can find something to watch for everyone. Shower cabin is a bit small but plenty of hot water with good pressure. The air conditioners in bedroom and living room worked perfectly which helped much in such hot weather. There are 2 balconies where you can spend time or dry your clothes. There's a washing machine you can use outside under stairs with detergent provided which is a nice touch, same as welcome bottle of wine with fruits, water ,coffee pods!
  
  What could be improved: Everything was perfect. Just wanted to thank again George and father for our nice time spent there!

• David from Czech Republic – 17 August 2023 (10/10)

  Everything prepared perfectly. Georgios was so friendly and provided a lot of hospitality (breakfast, coffee, fruit, sweets, water, wine etc)

• Nina from Germany – 13 August 2023 (10/10)

  A very beautiful and well equipped apartment. You had everything you need for a relaxing vacation. The apartment has very good wi-fi and provides with streaming programs like Disney+. We had 3 to 4 apartment cleanings, so it was always very clean there. The host George and his father Michael are wonderful people, who are ready to help you and give advice, whenever you need it. We came very late, so George helped us to order food and even prepared us groceries for breakfast.We would love to go there again.

• Rodrigue from Czech Republic – 29 July 2023 (10/10)

  George, our host, was very helpful and nice. Advising places to go and accommodating with our early arrival and late departure. Efcharisto George!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing all was perfect

• Emilija from Czech Republic – 23 July 2023 (9/10)

  Everything
  
  What could be improved: We liked everything.

• Bogdan from Slovenia – 16 July 2023 (10/10)

  Spacious and immaculately clean. Strategically located between Rodos and Lindos. George and his father will do everything possible and more to make you feel welcome.
  Kitchen is fully equipped, small market is a walking distance away (two minutes). Of course, to go around Rodos, you need a car. But we all know that, right? 🙂
  Highly recommended, we'll definitely come back!

• Ilan from Israel – 25 June 2023 (9/10)

  Super friendly host, and his father too :). He heard we’re vegetarian and filled the fridge with fresh fruits!
  Liked the (free!) coffee machine and capsules.
  
  What could be improved: Shower needs some improvement.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities