Lesbos, a Greek island located in the Aegean Sea, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by travellers. With its stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture, Lesbos is the perfect destination for those seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation. Here’s what you need to know about this incredible island and its must-visit attractions.
Main town of Mytilene – Stroll around the pleasing Ermou street and Prokymaia which is filled with shops, cafes and restaurants. In the main town, you can even pay a visit to the Mytilene Archeological Museum, and the glorious Byzantine castle. Another fascinating attraction here is the Saint Therapon Church, it is a true work of art and the iconic Agios Athanasios church. Surprisingly, Lesbos is even one of those islands which has some mosques like Valide Tzami and another Yeni mosque. Did you know the Ancient Theatre of Mytilene could hold up to 10,000 people back in the day, today it is in a state of ruin but still fascinating to watch?
Petrified forest of Lesbos – Take a look at the fossilised tree trunk which are around 20 million years old, some of which even seep underwater from the coast. This phenomenon was caused by eruptions, isn’t that fascinating? They even have a museum dedicated to this UNESCO World Heritage in Sigri which is just around 12km away from the forest, it’s quite enlightening and you get to learn and see a lot about this natural wonder of the world.
Thermal Springs – Going by greek mythology, the thermal springs here were a gift from Hephaestus which is the god of fire, there are about five sources of thermal springs around the island which is boasting of good minerals and are said can cure many illnesses. So do head to one of the baths around Polychnitou and Thermi.
Wander around Molyvos – The second biggest town on the island is Molyvos, and apart from boasting a lovely castle of Mythimna it also has some delicious cafes to try. In Molyvos Park they used to even have an old olive oil mill which is now a hotel, quite pretty.
Beaches: Lesbos is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. From the serene waters of Petra Beach to the crystal-clear waters of Skala Eressos Beach, there’s a beach for everyone on this island. You can even check out a few more beaches if your heart desires like Agios Isidoros Beach in Plomari, or even more secluded ones in Tsonia, and Chryssi Akti.
Activities around the Island:- Scuba Diving, the clear waters and abundant marine life here make this a popular destination for scuba diving enthusiasts. Explore the island’s vibrant coral reefs and encounter sea creatures like octopuses and sea turtles. Lesbos is home to several stunning hiking trails, offering breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Take a hike up Mount Kastro, the highest point on the island, and enjoy panoramic views of the surroundings. Windsurfing and Kitesurfing, The island’s strong winds make it a popular destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Take a lesson or rent equipment and enjoy the thrill of gliding across the water.
Villages to Explore – If you plan to stay for longer than two days on the island then some more places which you could consider visiting are Plomari, it has a delightful market and some great cafes, it makes up for a supreme coastal village. Another village worth seeing would be Petra which derives its name from a volcanic eruption, it has an 18th-century church situated on the rock too. Lastly, the village of Kaloni for its salt pans, and an array of beautiful flamingos thrive there.
Getting to the island – Lesbos is accessible by ferry from Athens. The ferry ride takes approximately 4 hours and tickets can be purchased at the port. You can also fly from Athens to Levlos, with the flight taking approximately 30 minutes.
The island of Lesbos is a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and a rich cultural experience. With its stunning beaches, impressive attractions, and diverse activities, Lesbos has something to offer everyone. So pack your bags and start exploring this hidden gem of Greece today!
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