Upon first glance, you might think you’ve just entered a picturesque valley. However, the real magic becomes apparent when you notice the countless tiny wings fluttering around you, stirring a sense of childlike wonder. It’s a place where kids will undoubtedly be delighted. The distinctiveness of this sanctuary is attributed not only to the butterflies that dwell here but also to the ancient trees they inhabit and the scenic waterfalls that add to the charm.
When you visit the Valley, you’re entering a region with rare, Eastern «Sweetgum» trees, unusual in Europe. Their vanilla-scented sap attracts the Jersey tiger moths, delighting travelers annually. These insects spend the rainy season as caterpillars around the Mediterranean. Come spring, they metamorphose and migrate to humid areas to reproduce. That’s why they flock to this valley, cut by the Pelikanos River, with its numerous waterfalls that the moths find appealing. Peak butterfly activity here is typically in August.
The Panaxia genus is steadily declining, heavily impacted by tourists' excessive curiosity. Despite guides' warnings, visitors disrupt the quietude of the Valley, adversely affecting the butterflies. With an atrophied digestive system, Panaxia doesn’t eat from May until mating for males or egg-laying for females. They rely solely on energy stored during their caterpillar stage. Rest is crucial for conserving this energy, but achieving silence is challenging as the Rhodes Butterfly Park attracts numerous visitors, including children, daily.
Visitors to the Butterfly Valley are kindly asked to maintain a peaceful environment. Loud noises, clapping, and laughter can disturb these delicate creatures. If you stay calm, you might be lucky enough to have butterflies land on you, allowing for a closer look and a perfect photo opportunity. Their beauty is striking—small, with dark hues and fine stripes, often in light colors like white or yellow, resembling the intricate patterns of a tiger’s coat.
If butterflies aren’t your thing, don’t expect to be wowed here. The area is home to a singular moth species, and you can spot crabs and spiders all over Rhodes.
There’s a single path for exploration. At first glance, the butterflies might be invisible, but a closer look at the trees' branches and bark reveals their subtle presence. Climb to the top of the trail to witness a spectacular sight—a blanket of resting butterflies on the rocks.
Located on the western side of Rhodes Island, Butterfly Valley is about 27 kilometers from Rhodes City and 5 kilometers southeast of Theologos village. Tourists frequently visit the site via organized bus tours, a convenient option for many. However, if possible, consider driving to the Valley in a rented vehicle for a more personal experience. There’s a small parking area near the attraction, accommodating cars and scooters for visitors.
