A natural and unspoilt Greek island
Lesvos (or Lesbos) is one of the largest Greek islands which, unlike most others, does not rely on tourism for its main source of income. This popular summer holiday destination remains untainted by tourist trappings, a serene and lush oasis with quaint villages, beautiful beaches and a fascinating history.
Lesvos is in Aegean Sea, close to Turkey and with easy travel by air or ferry to the Ionian Islands of Thessalonika, Athens, Kos and Rhodes. Mytilene is the main town, its 30,000 inhabitants living in the shadow of the well preserved Byzantine castle in the centre.
This enchanting island is home to lush olive groves, and its sheltered waters make for good fishing – both of which contribute its principal source of income. Holiday-makers with an interest in culture and history will find much of interest in Lesvos. The island has been inhabited since the Bronze Age, produced legendary poets Sappho and Alcaeus, and in the 6th century BC was rivalled only by Athens as a centre of civilisation.
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