Spirit of the Knights, Old Town, Rhodes, Greece - Explore & Book

"Hidden havens are something of a holy grail for us, especially on a bustling island like Rhodes; so this tranquil 6-room sleepery was a real revelation. Tucked right beneath the ramparts of its UNESCO-classed medieval Old Town, you'll be met at the taxi drop-off by amiable manager Alex, who leads you through a web of low-arched, echoing alleys to a daunting looking wall.Within, softened by lanterns, two towering palm trees, pink bougainvillea and a rippling Jacuzzi-pool, you’ll find a listed 14th-century knights' lodging, lovingly renovated over 4 years in close consultation with the Greek archaeology department and local craftsmen. Overseeing it all, from behind the scenes, is British artist Felicity Marshall. With the help of her son Alex, she runs the place in a relaxed yet professional way. A medieval fountain looks out onto a spacious green courtyard, a 500-year-old domed hammam is still in use as a private steam room (in one of the suites); even the radiators are made of marble. From the light-filled breakfast lounge, next to the lovely Knight's Chamber, an external flight of stone stairs lead steeply to a salon on the first floor. Papered with books from floor to lofty timbered ceiling, this magnificent communal space is the kingpin around which the hotel's 5 other suites revolve. Some have mezzanine bedrooms (handy for kids), others are more romantic with hanging candelabras and stained-glass windows - but all have that happy combination of medieval grandeur and modern comfort. Highs A welcoming oasis-like retreat after a day spent wandering the city walls and narrow cobbled streets withinGorgeous outdoor courtyard with a Jacuzzi tub and sunloungers, plus lots of shaded nooks and a dipping pool for cooling down after a day of sightseeingRhodes Town itself - a medieval gem (especially out of season), with narrow alleys, atmospheric restaurants, grand palaces - all on your doorstepSuperbly comfortable Coco Mat kingsize beds decked out with natural fibre linens A green hotel: low-energy light sources, solar-powered hot water and eco-friendly toiletries Lows Noise from the street (especially in summer); light sleepers should choose rooms giving onto the courtyard or shut the window and switch on the air-conA steep staircase to suites on the upper floor - folk with mobility problems should book the Knight's ChamberIt's difficult to park near the hotel - call Alex in advance and he'll send a cart for your luggageBreakfast is simple, but adequate" - Heidi Fuller-Love