Ten Reasons to Visit Lesbos
Greece Travel Secrets suggests ten reasons to visit Lesbos in the North-East Aegean in Greece, including its cuisine, birdwatching and its beaches.
Here are just ten reasons for visiting Lesbos (or Lesvos), where we've been several times - Sigri's our favourite place. There could be many more reasons but let's stick with ten to start with.
Boats in the Harbour at Molyvos on Lesbos
Ten Reasons to Visit Lesbos
Here are ten reasons to visit Lesbos in Greece:
1. Stunning Beaches:
Lesbos is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, with
crystal-clear waters and golden sands. Here are our favourite beaches on
Lesbos, in no particular order, just as we thought of them:
- Petra
Beach
- Eftalou
Beach
- Molyvos
Beach
- Anaxos
Beach
- Skala
Kallonis Beach
- Tarti
Beach
- Kagia
Beach
- Vatera
Beach
- Agios
Isidoros Beach
- Tsonia
Beach
Beach near Molyvos on Lesbos
2. Rich History: Lesbos
has a rich history dating back to ancient times. The island is known for its
archaeological sites, including the ancient city of Mytilene and the Roman
aqueduct. Here are some of the main historical notes:
- Ancient
Period:
- Lesbos
has a significant place in ancient Greek history. It was the birthplace
of several famous individuals, including the poets Sappho and Alcaeus.
- The
island was colonized by Aeolians in the 10th century BCE, and the city of
Mytilene became a major center for commerce and culture.
- Lesbos
played a role in the Greco-Persian Wars, and during the Peloponnesian
War, it was a major player as it aligned with Athens against Sparta.
- Roman
and Byzantine Periods:
- Like
many parts of Greece, Lesbos came under Roman rule in the 2nd century
BCE. It later became part of the Byzantine Empire.
- During
the Byzantine period, the island faced invasions by various groups,
including Goths and Slavs.
- Ottoman
Rule:
- Lesbos
was under Ottoman rule from the 15th century until the early 20th
century. The Ottomans influenced the island's culture, architecture, and
way of life.
- Modern
Era:
- In
1912, Lesbos was occupied by Greek forces during the Balkan Wars, leading
to its incorporation into Greece.
- The
island, like many others in the region, witnessed population exchanges
between Greece and Turkey in the early 20th century.
Beautiful Molyvos on Lesbos
3. Traditional
Villages: Lesbos is dotted with charming traditional villages, where you
can experience the authentic Greek way of life. Explore picturesque villages
like Ayiassos, Sigri, and Plomari.
At a Fish Market on Lesbos
4. Delicious Cuisine:
Lesbos is famous for its gastronomy, particularly its olive oil, ouzo, and
seafood. Here are some special dishes to try when visiting Lesbos:
- Sardines:
- Lesbos
is known for its fresh seafood, and sardines are a popular choice.
Grilled or fried sardines, often seasoned with local herbs and olive oil,
are a tasty and common dish.
- Ladotyri
Cheese:
- This
is a special cheese from Lesbos that is matured in olive oil. It has a
unique flavor and is often served as part of a meze platter.
- Ouzo
Meze:
- Ouzo,
an anise-flavored spirit, is a popular drink throughout Greece, but Lesbos is home to some of the best brands and best ouzo in the country. When enjoying
ouzo, locals often accompany it with various meze dishes, including
olives, cheese, and seafood.
- Kalami:
- Kalami
is a traditional dish from Lesbos, consisting of goat or lamb cooked with
onions, tomatoes, and various herbs. It is slow-cooked until the meat is
tender and flavorful.
- Revithato:
- This
is a chickpea soup that is popular in Lesbos. It typically includes
chickpeas, olive oil, onions, and various herbs. It's a comforting and
nutritious dish.
- Soutzouk
Loukoum:
- Lesbos
is known for its version of soutzouk loukoum, a sweet treat made with
sugar, water, cornstarch, and various flavorings. It's often dusted with
powdered sugar or desiccated coconut.
- Octopus
with Fava:
- Grilled
or stewed octopus is a favorite seafood dish on the island. It is
sometimes served with fava beans, creating a delicious and hearty
combination.
- Bourekia:
- These
are pastry parcels filled with various ingredients such as cheese,
greens, or meat. They can be baked or fried and are a popular snack or
appetizer.
- Moussaka:
- A
classic Greek dish, moussaka consists of layers of eggplant, minced meat
(often lamb), and a creamy béchamel sauce. It's baked until golden brown
and delicious.
- Fasolada:
- While
not exclusive to Lesbos, fasolada is a traditional Greek bean soup made
with tomatoes, olive oil, and vegetables. It's a wholesome and nutritious
option.
Don't Miss Ouzo with Meze on Lesbos
5. Natural Beauty:
Lesbos is a paradise for nature lovers. The island boasts diverse landscapes,
including lush forests, hot springs, and the unique Petrified Forest of Sigri,
a UNESCO World Heritage site.
6. Birdwatching: Lesbos
is a haven for birdwatchers, as it is a major migratory route for various bird
species. The wetlands of the Kalloni Gulf attract thousands of birds, making it
a popular spot for birdwatching enthusiasts. Others include the Alykes
Wetlands, Metochi Lake, Ipsilou Monastery, and the Petra Hills.
7. Cultural Events:
Lesbos hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year, including music
festivals, art exhibitions, and traditional celebrations. The Ouzo Festival in
Plomari and the Sardine Festival in Kalloni are particularly popular.
8. Warm Hospitality:
The locals of Lesbos are known for their warm hospitality and friendly nature.
Visitors can expect a warm welcome and a genuine Greek experience.
Walking near Ayiassos on Lesbos
9. Outdoor Activities:
Lesbos offers a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and water
sports. Explore the island's nature trails, go kayaking along the coast, or
take a boat trip to nearby islands.
A Tranquil Spot Facing Molyvos on Lesbos
10. Relaxation and
Tranquility: Lesbos is a peaceful and tranquil island, perfect for those
seeking a relaxing getaway. Whether you want to unwind on the beach, enjoy a
spa treatment, or simply soak in the island's natural beauty, Lesbos has it
all.
These are just a few reasons to visit Lesbos in Greece. The
island offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and warm
hospitality, making it an ideal destination for travelers.
Lesbos Beach Sunset
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