Lesvos’ mild mediterranean climate, lush greenery, petrified forest and picturesque traditional villages make it the perfect destination for families. See the medieval castles of Mytilene, Molyvos and Sigri and sample local products such as olive oil and ouzo.
Time your trip to experience a Greek religious festival and get a closer look at the island’s culture.
1. Fossilized Forest
Among the most impressive natural wonders of Lesvos is the Petrified Forest, a plethora of tree fossils dating back to 20 million years ago. The fossils, spanning the west of the island, show branches, twigs, roots and even imprints of animals. They are a unique natural treasure, offering insights into the climate and environment of that time. The fossils are made of a mix of conifers and angiosperms. The former are represented by the pines (Pinaceae), yews (Taxodiaceae) and cypresses (Cuprassaceae). Of the angiosperms, several types of laurels and cinnamon are present as well as beech and oak trees.
The fossils were formed as a result of intense volcanic activity in the Lower Miocene. During that period, the region was characterized by subtropical forests containing mixed species of plants. The prevailing high temperatures and the intense volcanic activity led to explosive eruptions and subsequent covering with ash. This in turn caused mudflows which trapped and encased the vegetation, fossilizing it in its original position.
Lesvos is an ideal destination for anyone looking to get away from the crowds of the big islands like Santorini and Mykonos and discover its charming charm. With traditional villages, atmospheric restaurants and spectacular beaches, Lesvos has something for everyone. It’s also an excellent choice for food lovers as the island is known for its specialties including trahanas pasta, stuffed zucchini flowers, local scallops and ouzo.
2. Spectacular Beaches
With its stunning scenery, picturesque villages and a world famous petrified forest Lesvos is the epitome of Greek nature at its best. But it is also a place that has a rich culture with many traditions to explore. From awe-inspiring natural beauty to mouthwatering cuisine and captivating music to ancient history Lesvos has something for everyone.
A trip to Lesvos wouldn’t be complete without visiting some of the island’s spectacular beaches. There are a number of pristine sandy beaches, as well as some rocky shores that offer snorkelling opportunities. The beach in Skala Eresou, the birthplace of the poet Sappho is a popular destination for tour groups and families. The beach is made up of a mix of sand and fine pebbles with beautiful clear water. The beach is a Blue Flag certified site, and offers plenty of amenities including water sports facilities and seaside tavernas.
The beach in Plomari, the capital of Ouzo production, is another lovely spot that has a mixture of sand and fine pebbles as well as clean crystal clear water. The beach is full of tavernas and is well organised so it can get crowded in peak season.
There are also some lovely rocky beaches such as the one in Melinda, which has dark sand and a captivating rock right in the middle of the beach. Another rocky option is Chrousos, which is free of sunbeds and umbrellas and has one of the most gorgeous sunsets on the island.
3. Traditional Villages
Lesvos residents have a strong sense of tradition, and this is evident in their well-kept homes, flower-filled courtyards and taverns. Some of these village houses are built with traditional mud bricks, a construction style that dates back to the Bronze Age. Visiting the island’s villages is a great way to get a closer look at local architecture.
The hamlet of Petra is an example of this traditional architecture, and it’s also home to the church of Panagia Glykofilousa. The church clings to the top of a rock, and it offers magnificent views of the surrounding area. Other notable structures include the mud brick monastery of Limonos and the neoclassical church of Agios Therapontas in Mytilene.
Walking and cycling are popular activities in Lesvos, as the island is cloaked in pine forests, vineyards, and olive groves. Hikers can enjoy the solitude of mountain paths and the serenity of nature, while cyclists will appreciate the back roads with few cars. The island’s residents are also known for their friendly attitude towards visitors. Unlike in many other places, the people of Lesvos treat strangers with respect, and they’re more than happy to answer questions and offer directions. Many of the residents of Lesvos were refugees themselves, and they continue to be generous and compassionate toward migrants. The warm and welcoming people of Lesvos make the island a special destination.
4. Winery Tours
The island of Lesvos is famous for many things – the petrified forest, ouzo, olive oil, beautiful beaches and its friendly people. But the thing that makes this place really special is the rich culture, history and heritage it has to offer.
As the birthplace of the Greek poet Sappho, Lesvos has a lot of myth and culture to share with the world. It is also home to incredible natural landscapes and picturesque villages. The third largest island in Greece, it’s also a producer of ouzo and olive oil that are celebrated all over the country.
If you are visiting Lesvos, don’t miss the chance to enjoy a winery tour! There are several modern wineries in the island that produce high quality wines with a unique character. This is a great way to learn more about the local wine industry and taste some of the best wine in Greece.
Lesvos is a wonderful island that will capture your heart with its pure & authentic beauty. It is the perfect getaway for those who are looking for a relaxing vacation. The small streets, cute villages, atmospheric restaurants and traditional shops will make your stay here unforgettable. It’s the kind of place that you will never want to leave! So if you are looking for an island that is off the beaten path, then Lesvos is definitely the right choice.