Seven Springs (Epta Piges) is a shaded nature spot in the hills above the east coast of Rhodes. Clear spring water feeds a small stream, a long narrow tunnel, and a pretty lake with a short waterfall. It is an easy half day by car from Rhodes Town and pairs well with a swim at nearby Tsambika or Afandou. If you want cool shade, gentle walks, and a touch of adventure in the tunnel, Seven Springs is a great addition to your itinerary.
This is where Rhodes slows down. Tall plane trees keep the air cool even on hot days, birdsong replaces traffic, and small footbridges cross the stream. The highlight is the old water tunnel that leads to a small man made lake and a viewpoint over a short waterfall. You can choose a relaxed loop without the tunnel or take the adventurous route through shallow water. Either way, you leave feeling refreshed and ready for the coast again.
Seven Springs sits inland above Kolymbia, roughly halfway down the east coast. Drive from Rhodes Town toward Kolymbia and follow the brown signs for “Epta Piges / Seven Springs.” The final approach is a short forest road that ends near the entrance paths. Parking is usually straightforward outside of peak midday hours. Mark your car location on your phone and keep valuables out of sight so you can enjoy the walk without worry.
From the entrance, paths follow the stream past seven small springs and stone channels. The famous water tunnel is narrow, dark, and ankle deep for most visitors. Many people walk it slowly with shorts and light water shoes, using a phone torch for comfort. At the far end you reach the small lake and a short waterfall where the water spills over a low dam. If tunnels are not your thing, a signed forest path takes you around to the same viewpoint without stepping into water.
Seven Springs suits families and relaxed walkers. Keep children within arm’s reach near the stream and in the tunnel. The tunnel is long and dark, so use a torch and walk single file. Anyone with claustrophobia can skip it and meet the group at the lake. Bring water, a small snack, and insect repellent in summer. Water shoes or sandals with grip are helpful in the tunnel and near wet stones; trainers work fine for the dry loop.
Morning is the sweetest time for soft light and quiet trails. Late afternoon also feels calm and photogenic. In peak months, plan your visit before or after the hottest hours and carry drinking water. You can spend forty five to ninety minutes here depending on the route and photo stops. Many visitors add a lunch at a nearby taverna and finish the day with a swim at Tsambika, Afandou, or Kolymbia beach.
Is the tunnel safe for children? Yes with supervision. The water is shallow, but it is dark and narrow. Hold hands, use a torch, and walk slowly, or take the dry path instead.
Do I need special shoes? Not strictly. Water shoes or sandals with grip are comfortable in the tunnel; regular trainers are fine for the dry loop.
How long is the walk? A simple loop with the tunnel and lake takes about one hour with photos. Add time if you prefer a slower pace.
Can I skip the tunnel? Absolutely. Follow the signed forest path to reach the lake and waterfall without walking through water.
What can I combine it with? Tsambika Beach, Afandou Beach, or a short stop in Kolymbia fit perfectly after Seven Springs.