Built on the narrowest part of the Athos Peninsula, Nea Rodha is a picturesque village with narrow cobbled streets and traditional stone houses surrounded by beautifully landscaped courtyards full of flowers.

This charming village, known for its rich history, is located at the site where the Persian king Xerxes I began a large construction project during his invasion of Greece in 480 BC: the digging of a canal to allow the Persian fleet to pass through and avoid the dangerous waters around Mount Athos, where ships had previously been lost in storms. The canal was about 2,900 meters long, wide enough for two triremes—ancient warships—and is considered one of the boldest engineering feats of the ancient world. Although the canal was later filled in and is no longer in use, traces of this great project are still visible around Nea Rodha and attract the attention of many archaeologists. Xerxes’ canal is now a significant historical attraction and a symbol of the impressive logistics and ambition of the Persian military during their conquests.

As you walk through the village, you will be pleasantly surprised by the numerous archaeological sites that witness the many historical events in this area.

The beach in Nea Rodha stretches along a peaceful bay with golden and slightly coarser sand, both on the shore and beneath the water, and crystal-clear water with a gradual depth, making it ideal for families with children and those who prefer a quieter, less crowded spot away from the tourist hustle. The beach is partially organized, with free use of sunbeds and umbrellas when ordering a drink at the attached bar, while the majority of the beach is for visitors with their own equipment. Visitors have access to showers and changing cabins, which are adequately available across all parts of the beach. In the summer months, occasional winds may appear in the afternoon, and at those times, you can head to the western coast of the peninsula and the Xiropotamos Beach, which almost never experiences wind or waves.

At the far-right end of the beach, viewed facing the sea, there is a section adapted for individuals with disabilities, featuring not only a ramp for entering the water but also accessible pathways to the sunshades.

Behind the beach, there is a wide, paved, and beautifully landscaped promenade where you can enjoy shopping for souvenirs, try traditional Greek specialties and refreshing drinks while relaxing on the terrace of one of the many tavernas overlooking the turquoise sea, or cool off with an ice cream at the patisserie, a must-stop for many visitors to the area. On the left end of the promenade, facing the sea, your children can have fun at the playground located right next to the beach.

In the central part of the beach is the Xerxis beach bar, the largest organized part of the beach in Nea Rodha. This area is ideal for young children thanks to the gradual entry into the water and fine sand, as well as the playground shaded by umbrellas, right next to the shore, and part of the beach bar. The beach is also popular among couples, younger and older visitors, as it offers a beautiful setting and pleasant atmosphere, along with the comfort of the bar. At the bar, you can enjoy drinks, fast food, as well as homemade cooked meals, fresh salads, and fish. Part of the bar is covered by a natural wooden canopy, making it an excellent choice for those who want to spend the whole day at the beach and feel comfortable even during the summer heat.

Sunbeds and umbrellas are free with drink consumption, and food and drink prices are reasonable. The beach and beach bar Xerxis are part of the Xerxis Hotel, located directly in front of the beach and included in our offer. For more information about the hotel, you can click here. Hotel Xerxis is probably the best choice for a holiday in Nea Rodha, thanks to its excellent location and beautiful beach.

The famous Legend Beach, which can be reached on foot from Nea Rodha and once had an organized bar and restaurant, is located 500 meters away. The beach is covered in fine light sand, and the sea is turquoise and crystal clear with a long shallow area. Although the bar is no longer operational, you can still visit this beach, but it is now unorganized and lacks additional amenities. Despite this, it remains one of the most beautiful beaches on Athos due to the stunning turquoise sea.

At the right end of Nea Rodha, facing the sea, is a small harbor where you can buy fresh fish and seafood at affordable prices from local fishermen every day.

In the village, there are two bakeries, several small shops and markets, and for larger purchases, it’s best to go to Lidl or Masoutis in nearby Ierissos, where you’ll also find the nearest ATMs and a pediatrician, while there is a general practitioner in Nea Rodha as well.

Nea Rodha has several restaurants, with Molos being considered the best. Zizis is the only fast food restaurant in Nea Rodha offering gyros in a pita, while other places serve gyros in portions or large club sandwiches.

Nea Rodha is a place for a peaceful, family vacation but also an excellent starting point for exploring Athos if you are a fan of active holidays. The proximity of Ouranopolis and Mount Athos, the Drenia Islands, Ierissos, the pearl of Athos – Amuliani Island, the Kakovo Monastery, as well as many beautiful beaches in the surrounding area like Voulitsa and Komitsa Beach, including the beaches in the nearby Olympiada, are just some of the reasons why Nea Roda should be chosen for a holiday.

Nea Rodha is not a destination with a developed nightlife, clubs, or discos, so it does not attract young people looking for entertainment. This village offers only the basic amenities for a vacation, without specific tourist attractions for adults or children. However, Nea Rodha is an ideal place for those seeking peace, natural beauty, and a touch of history, with the possibility of exploring surrounding attractions. For those who want to escape the crowds on popular beaches and resorts, while still enjoying natural beauty, clean beaches, and a relaxed vacation, Nea Rodha is the perfect choice.

Visit the following link for the complete list of accommodations in Nea Rodha.