Welcome to Lesvos
Lesvos, also known as Lesbos, is a Greek island located in the northeast Aegean Sea. It is the third-largest Greek island and has a rich history and cultural heritage that dates back thousands of years. The island is known for its natural beauty, warm hospitality, and unique cuisine.
One of the most noticeable features of Lesvos is its natural landscapes. The island is filled with lush green hills, pristine beaches, and rocky cliffs that provide breathtaking views of the sea. Some of Lesvos’s most famous natural sites include the Petrified Forest, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the island’s hot springs.
Lesvos is also home to several charming villages and towns. The capital city, Mytilene, is a bustling urban center that offers a wide range of historical and cultural sites, including the Mytilene Castle and the Archaeological Museum. Other popular destinations on the island include the picturesque village of Molyvos, which is known for its stone houses, the traditional village of Plomari, which is famous for its ouzo, and the fishing village of Skala Eressos.
The island’s historical and cultural heritage is evident everywhere. Lesvos has been inhabited since the prehistoric era, and many of the island’s ancient monuments and structures still stand today. Visitors can explore the ruins of ancient cities like Eressos and Pyrrha or visit the medieval castles of Mytilene and Molyvos.
How to reach it
Lesvos, also known as Lesbos, is a Greek island located in the northeastern Aegean Sea. There are several ways to reach Lesvos, depending on where you are coming from. Here are some common options:
1. By Flight:
You can take a flight from Athens International Airport or Thessaloniki Airport to Mytilene International Airport, which is located on the island of Lesvos. The flight duration is around 1 hour.
2. By Ferry:
You can take a ferry from Piraeus Port near Athens or Thessaloniki Port to Mytilene Port on Lesvos. The ferry ride takes around 8-10 hours, depending on the departure point.
3. By Car:
If you have your own vehicle, you can take the Egnatia Odos highway from Athens or Thessaloniki to Kavala, and then take the ferry from Kavala to Mytilene. Alternatively, you can drive to Piraeus Port or Thessaloniki Port and take the ferry from there to Lesvos.
4. By Bus:
You can take a bus from Athens to Lesvos, which is a time-consuming but cost-effective option. The bus trip takes around 12-14 hours.
Where to stay
There are various options for accommodation in Lesvos, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly apartments and guesthouses. Some popular areas to stay on the island include:
1. Mytilene:
If you prefer to stay in a larger city with more amenities and nightlife, Mytilene is a good option. There are numerous hotels and guesthouses in the city center as well as apartments and homes available for rent.
2. Molyvos:
This picturesque village on the north coast of Lesvos is known for its charming stone houses, narrow winding streets, and stunning views of the Aegean Sea. There are plenty of guesthouses and small hotels in Molyvos, as well as seaside villas available for rent.
3. Petra:
This seaside village is located in the central part of Lesvos and features a beautiful sandy beach and a lively town center. Visitors can find a variety of accommodation options here, ranging from luxury hotels to budget hotels and apartments.
4. Plomari:
This traditional village on the southern coast of Lesvos is famous for its ouzo production and beautiful beaches. There are several guesthouses and small hotels in Plomari as well as apartments available for rent.
5. Skala Eressos:
This quiet fishing village on the west coast of Lesvos is known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful beach. There are several small hotels and guesthouses in Skala Eressos as well as beachfront villas available for rent.
Highlights: what to see/what to do
Lesvos (also known as Lesbos) is a beautiful Greek island that is known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and delicious food. Here are some of the top highlights of Lesvos that are worth experiencing:
1. Petrified Forest:
Lesvos has a unique Petrified Forest that dates back millions of years. It is a UNESCO Global Geopark and a must-visit location on the island.
2. Molyvos Castle:
This impressive castle has been guarding the island for more than a thousand years and offers amazing views over Molyvos village and the sea.
3. Anaxos Beach:
Lesvos has several beautiful beaches, but Anaxos is particularly stunning with its white sand and clear turquoise waters.
4. Lesvos Ouzo:
Ouzo is the traditional Greek liquor that is popular all over the country. Lesvos has a unique version of ouzo that has become famous for its smooth and delicious taste.
5. Skala Eressos:
This charming village is known for its relaxed atmosphere, lovely beaches, and lively nightlife.
6. Traditional Villages:
Lesvos has many beautiful and charming villages that offer insight into the traditional Greek way of life. Some of the most notable ones to visit are Plomari, Agiassos, and Asomatos.
7. Festivals:
Lesvos is known for its many festivals and celebrations that take place throughout the year. The most famous one is the traditional ‘Sardine Festival’ that takes place in the village of Skala Kallonis every summer.
There are many more highlights of Lesvos, including its architecture, museums, and natural landscapes. The island has something for everyone and is definitely worth a visit.
