Lesvos, Greek Isles – May 1999

This Island of astounding natural beauty is set like a jewel in the Aegean Sea.

Just five miles from the coast of Asia Minor, Lesvos, or Lesbos, lies to the north of Chios and south of Limnos.

The breathtaking landscape rolls through regions of pine-covered mountains to areas of barren, yet dramatic volcanic stone.

There are numerous sand and pebble beaches and many sheltered and isolated

coves dotted along the spectacular indented coastline.

The temperate climate, inland rivers and natural springs all contribute to maintain the

surprisingly lush vegetation of the island.

Lesbos is world renowned for it’s many varied species of flora and fauna. It is also host to a superb

petrified forest located between Eressos and Sigri in the Southwest.

This is a land steeped in tradition and rich in history and culture. The birthplace of musicians, poets, writers and artists who have been inspired through time and still in present day, by the natural charm and picturesque views allowing endless opportunity for exploration and discovery.

Wherever you choose to stay on the island, the chances are you will begin your journey from

Mytilini, the capital of Lesvos and host to the Airport and commercial Seaport.

Located on the Northern tip, Mytilini is the largest town on the island.

If you’re thinking of hiking into the mountainous terrain or you’re not quite sure where your journey will take you, this is the place to stock up on goods. Bear in mind that cash machines are few and far between and if you need some dosh, get it here.

The town is located approx. 5km from the airport and if arriving by

plane, you should consider taking one of the many Mercedes taxis waiting outside.

You will find car and bike hire agencies near the seaport, and the main bus depot close by where you will find

details of routes servicing the whole island.

Public transport is a great way of seeing the island,

but buses can be slow and the temperatures can soar above 90 degrees especially in high

season.

Be warned, and always travel with plenty of bottled water which is readily available from

most shops and cafes.

Mytilini has built up and into the surrounding hills like an amphitheater and is crowned by a

stunning fortification. If you can, spend some time wondering the numerous back streets, where

you will find many local cafes.

Try not to miss the market which is generally accepted as one of

the best in Greece. Try the local thinly-sliced smoked meat, or the sardines for

which Lesvos is famous.

The usual afternoon siesta is taken from 1 till 4pm and all but the larger

shops will close.

If arriving by boat, you will find the harbour is a fascinating area buzzing with

life. On the North side there are cafes and small restaurants, an ideal place to watch the

numerous ferries and fishing boats whilst sipping ouzo, a Greek licorice liqueur which is

generally about 40% proof. You have been warned.

Whether traveling by bus, taxi, hire car, bike or scooter, the scenery will unfold itself around you

throughout your journey. The volcanic structure rises and falls like taught muscle undulating

below a carpet of lush green to the North-east, and impressive volcanic rock formations to the

West.

Huge lagoons of water and strips of beach will appear shimmering below and then beside

as you bend toward your chosen destination. Small churches, road-side shrines and even whole

villages seem to playfully hide from view until you are almost upon them.

Traveling to the further reaches of the island can take up to or even in excess of two hours

(especially when traveling by local bus!). It is easy to become dehydrated, especially if your

journey is likely to take place between 11am and 4pm when the sun is at it’s most

powerful.

This is truly an island representative of the myth and the magic surrounding Greek culture and

upon arrival, one is immediately aware of the friendliness with which locals greet you.

The Greeks are good-natured socialites and people here actually smile and nod good morning for no

apparent reason whatsoever!

Most Greeks here will have a smattering of English, but do not

expect this to be the case as you travel further inland. Take a small phrase book, and if all

else fails resort to miming. It works and you’ll always raise a laugh!

For more info and pictures on Lesvos, go to the LesvosWeb website.

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