Located in the Northern Aegean, the island of Lesvos has been captivating artists, writers, and adventurers for centuries. The birthplace of the poet Sappho as well as that delicious Greek beverage, ouzu, Lesvos boasts a breathtaking landscape with so much to see and do. The island is an ideal hiking and cycling destination, and abounds in more varieties of birds and wildflowers than anywhere else in Europe. Its natural attractions include its renowned hot springs and its petrified forest. And though it's the third largest island in Greece, lesser-known Lesvos remains unaffected by mass tourism, affording visitors an authentic glimpse of Greece's enchanting aura.
Exploring the island by bicycle allows you to cover large stretches at your own pace. Peddle along quiet mountain roads which offer amazing views of the distant Turkish coastline. Make a stop in one or more villages along the way to sample Lesvian hospitality and cuisine while admiring the stone houses with their red tile roofs and elaborately painted shutters typical of the island's architecture. The town of Molyvos is particularly picturesque. The town's winding cobblestone, wisteria-bordered streets take you to the ruins of a Byzantine castle which looms imposingly over the surrounding countryside.
After exploring the town, don't miss the nearby Eftalou beach. Here, lapped by clear blue ocean waves, you'll find a small rounded hamam, or spa, which has been in use for thousands of years. This is one of the best places to experience the healing thermal spas for which Lesvos is famous. Follow your soak in the spa's soothing hot waters with a refreshing and invigorating dip in the clear ocean waters.
The island abounds in exciting hiking opportunities. Follow an ancient trail through dense forests and across ravines and streams to reach the summit of Mount Olympos, where you'll see a good part of the entire island stretching out below you. If you're a bird-watching enthusiast, don't miss the Bay of Kalloni, bordered by mountains and a lush valley. Hike through the diverse landscape surrounding the bay, comprised of salt plains, marshes, and forests, where you're likely to spot storks and flamingos among the hundreds of species that make this sheltered region their home.
A trip to the island would not be complete without a hike through the Petrified Forest, the second largest in the world, and estimated to be 20 million years old. Stroll through this haunting landscape of fossilized trees, many of which are still standing, appearing like ruins in the desolate, mesmerizing countryside.
Lesvos is the ultimate destination for visitors looking for lots of adventure and a virtually endless variety of things to see and do. This undiscovered gem, replete in natural beauty and historic sites is the perfect getaway for an active and adventure-packed holiday in Greece.