This might be one of the most unusual nature sites of Rhodes where you can spend a couple of hours relaxing from the midday summer heat exploring nature paths and century-old water supply constructions! Once you get to the Valley, you will instantly feel the difference in the temperature thanks to the gushing cool water coming from seven springs scattered throughout the hillside and the abundant cool shade from the surrounding pine & plane tree forest.
The Seven Springs Valley is located on the East Coast, 28 km (17.40 mi) from Rhodes town. It is situated between Kolymbia and Archipoli villages and is a part of Natura 2000 Program. The name comes from the seven natural springs that form a small tributary of the river Loutanis. Because of the abundant water and humid environment, the Valley is verdant all year round and provides a perfect biotope for rare plants.
The actual history of the Valley dates back to the 1920s when the Italians decided to exploit the water coming from springs by installing aqueducts to transport water to nearby villages and fields. It took 11 years to complete the construction works. The water was channeled into a tunnel from where it was captured by a dam, forming a beautiful artificial lake. The highlight of the water supply construction is the barrier of the dam that lets the water fall into the lake forming an impressive waterfall. The lake is 1-8m (3.28-26.25 ft) deep and has approx. 200m length (656.17 ft).
Another exciting attraction of the Valley is the narrow tunnel! To reach the waterfall, you can either walk through the tunnel (it adds to the experience!) or walk along the forest path. Just follow the signs! The tunnel goes 13m (42.65 ft) under the ground and is 185 m (605 ft) long & 2 m (6.56 ft) high. The fresh spring water ankle or knee-high flows through the tunnel into the artificial lake. It has become a tradition to walk to the lake barefooted crossing the tunnel. Halfway, there is a well serving as an airway. The pitch-black darkness, the cool running water, and narrow old concrete walls spice up the experience! For those who prefer to stay above the ground, there is a footpath leading to the lake. 
As soon as you exit the tunnel, you will see a small reservoir of water. Depending on the time of the year, it will be rich in water or nearly dry. Either way, continue exploring, going to the dam with a waterfall. It makes a very pretty photo backdrop! 
The heart of Sevens Springs is at its Restaurant where Petas family runs the restaurant for almost 80 years! It started with a small hut in 1945 built by Mr. Stefanos who was making omelets for the workers of the water supply construction and taking care of a big tank to supply water for the donkeys. As the area naturally attracted passers-by and hikers, the little hut grew into a cozy restaurant offering traditional Greek food.
It is nice to stop for at least half an hour to rest under the shade of the huge plane trees and enjoy the sounds of running water from springs. You might be interrupted by a peacock or a goose while sipping your cold beverage! As you get the first glimpse of the restaurant, you see nothing fancy or fussy, but the comfortable large tables promise good and filling food! Everything is fresh, prepared daily, and flies out of the kitchen in no time. The secret recipe of its deliciousness is simple – fresh air, outdoors, nature combined with family traditions and local ingredients. We can only recommend – exploring the Valley and letting nature open your appetite! One dish should not be missing at your table – their mouthwatering Greek Salad paired with meat & cheese balls! 
There are some interesting stories that locals can tell you, especially about their big snake that lives inside the souvenir shop!
We hope this information helps you to experience the Valley of Seven Springs and have a nice time! We will be happy if you share it!
Discover Rhodes & Fall in Love ❤️
