The beautiful island of Lesvos (also known as Lesbos) lies in Greece's northern Aegean Sea, overlooking the Turkish coastline. It is an island rich in history, natural beauty and archaeology, with picturesque towns and villages to explore.

The Aeolian Village is situated at one end of a beautiful bay on a long stretch of fine golden sand with the charming village of Skala Eressos a ten minute walk along the beach.

The quaint cafés and restaurants of Skala Eressos are built with bamboo-covered decks extending out over the sand on stilts, the perfect place to enjoy some traditional Greek hospitality.

Local colour

Lesvos, sometimes known as Lesbos, and often referred to as the island of poets is steeped in tradition, history and culture. The third largest Greek island, the landscape is one of extremes with regions of pine covered mountains to areas of volcanic stone.

The island has an unspoilt feel, with an abundance of historical sites, museums, Roman ruins and hot springs to explore. Together with its wonderful variety of wildlife and unspoilt coastline, you will see why we think Lesvos is such a perfect location to discover on foot or by bike.

Lesvos is also home to a petrified forest located between Eressos and Sigri, with fossilised trees from 15 million years ago. This area was originally covered in many species, which now only grow in subtropical areas. These trees are amazingly well preserved and many are still standing.

Another unique aspect of this fascinating island is the large number of therapeutic hot springs, testament to the island’s volcanic past. The domed spas provide a relaxing and soothing experience; in some locations you can also swim in the sea or sit along the shore where the hot mineral water seeps through the rocks.

Ten minutes’ walk along the beach from the Aeolian Village is the small village of Skala Eressos. Birthplace of the famous female poet Sappho, the original town was built sometime between the 11th and 9th century BC.

An important settlement on the island, Eressos was home to an ancient acropolis and castle, of which some remains can still be seen. There was also a stadium and theatre as well as many temples dedicated to different gods including Apollo and Poseidon.

In the 17th century the village moved 4km inland and is now known as Eressos. Skala Eressos as it is today was founded in 1920 and many of the original houses can be seen on Vigla Hill, overlooking the beach and harbour. The village now has a cosmopolitan feel with shady traffic-free streets and many delightful seafront restaurants and tavernas

Mytilini is the capital of Lesvos. Built up into the surrounding hills, it is a large bustling town with a lively harbour, shops, restaurants and bars. The streets are lined with beautiful mansion houses built in Venetian style, giving the town a distinct air of grandeur. There is also a Museum of Modern Art displaying work from famous artists including Picasso and Matisse and a Byzantine Castle, one of the largest in the Mediterranean, which plays host to various cultural events during summer months.

Before you leave Lesvos you must try it’s most famous product. The local ouzo is a strong, clear aniseed flavoured alcoholic drink often served with ouzomezedes – snacks of grilled cheese and octopus to help counter the effect of this fiery traditional aperitif.

Historical Sites

The position of Lesvos in the Aegean has secured its historical importance. With architecture still apparent from the Byzantian, Roman, Venetian and Ottoman Eras there is much to see on the island. The Capital of Mytilini is a good place to start with its striking castle overlooking the town dating back to the Byzantian Period. An ancient theatre in the north of the town has been likened to that of the grand Epidavros.

Hot Springs

Being a volcanic island Lesvos features many hot springs and pools some of which are positioned well above sea level. With claims to their medicinal properties the springs have been used for thousands of years to help cure the islanders and their visitors of aches and pains. Well worth a visit after a hard week of activities.