Holidays in Lesvos

Surprisingly the third largest island in Greece, Lesvos (also known as Mytilini) is a beautiful little-known island situated in the northeastern region of the Aegean Islands, only a few miles from the south-west coast of Turkey. Blessed with rich flora and fauna, mild Mediterranean climate and charming traditional Greek villages, Lesvos is virtually unaffected by the mass tourism that some of its neighbouring islands have experienced over the years. If you are looking for authentic Greece, Lesvos is without a doubt an interesting place to visit. Award-winning beaches, art museums, medieval castles and breathtakingly beautiful landscapes, Lesvos can be explored by donkey or horse, bicycle, jeep or on foot. It’s nature lovers paradise and a longer stay is recommended simply to be able to explore and appreciate this large island. Lesvos is a main stop in the migration route for European birds coming from Africa and subsequently has a fantastic range of bird life.

Although tourism is growing, it is not by any means the main income on the island. Lesvos is famed for its industrial architecture including olive presses, soap factories and tanneries dating back to the island’s industrial development in the 19th century. It is therefore no surprise that locally grown and produced olive oil acts a great part in local cuisine. Another famous local product is the world-famous Greek ouzo.

Also known for the exclusive fossilized forest covering the Sigri Eressos-Antissa area, which has been designed as a preserved natural monument since 1985 with its ecosystem that has been fossilized over 15 million years ago due to the intense volcanic activity in the area. This fantastic and rare nature area is visited by thousands of tourists each year. The capital of Lesvos is Mytilini (with approximately 30,000 residents) - and it is one the most ancient Greek cities and stretches over seven hills. The charming traditional houses, historical monuments, Byzantine temples harmonically sit next to the neoclassical mansions and more modern buildings.

In addition to the walking and hiking opportunities in the unique fossilized forest, Lesvos offers an array of water based activities. Enjoy bathing at the ‘Therma’ spa at Gera Bay with alluring water temperatures of 39.5’c which is ideal for various skin conditions, or visit some of the pretty beaches of Tsamakia, Agalma Eleftherias, Kratigos, Vigla, Aghios Ermogenis and Charamida or enjoy a spot of scuba diving at nearly rock-islets.

One of the most memorable experiences in Lesvos is the olive harvest which has a long history on the island. This is not only educational and fun, but also a fantastic way to understand the way of life in the region and to taste the true rural way of living. At the end of the harvest there is a huge feast in the village to celebrate everyone’s efforts and the fruit of the harvest, the oil, which is well-known for its cosmetic and pharmaceutical qualities.

Molyvos Transfers: 45mins (by taxi)
The ancient town of Mythimna, as it was called in antiquity and even today. Molyvos is perched high on a hillside and dominated by its imposing medieval castle, really is a picturesque sight. Its charming, colourful harbour dotted with cafes, fish tavernas and shops will entice you with its relaxed and warm hospitality.

Eftalou Transfers: 85mins (by taxi)
A quiet, sleepy village is less than 10 minutes drive away from Molyvos and also boasting long stretches of pebble beach. But it is most famous for its natural hot springs you can enjoy a natural, soothing, thermal bath.

Petra Transfers: 20mins (by taxi)
Clustered around the base of an impressive monolithic rock, Petra is only 5kms away from Molyvos. Long stretches of sand / shingle beach, a good selection of restaurants, tavernas, bars and cafes line the main street, overlooking the sea. All Transfer Times are approximate

Lesvos, Resorts

Places to Visit in Lesvos , Greece

Eftalou | Molyvos |