The West of Lesvos

This side of the island is characterised by its volcanic rocks and aridity in most of the area. There are many beaches, some of which are among the island’s most beautiful. A wonder of nature, the petrified forest of Sigri also lies in this area.

There are two ways to access the west of Lesbos, both of which are interesting. We recommend a combination of the two.

If you decide on Kalloni (40,3 km) as your starting point, once you get to the crossroads take the road to Skalochori, Antissa, Eressos and Sigri.

NW of Kalloni, approximately 5km down the road you’ll encounter Moni Leimonos (the Monastery of Leimon). It is a monastery of special interest for its rich cultural and historical legacy, which is unique on the island. However it should be noted that it is forbidden for women to enter the churches and monasteries in this area.

The road goes on through villages, each one with own special charm : Filia (51 km), Skalochori (58,3 km), Vatousa (66,8 km). When you get to Vatousa, don’t just drive through. Take a walk in the village. Visit its old churches, admire is well-preserved colour.

Then go down to Moni Perivolis, an old monastery (founded in 1600-1650) which lies between Vatousa and Antissa, near the cool waters of a ravine at the bed of Voulgari River. This area is renown for its larks and crystal clear waters. Moving ahead you’ll arrive in Antissa (76,5 km) - the centre of the area. Visit the Square and the graphic haven of Gavatha. The seaside is ideal for swimming or a good catch ; ideal for those who prefer simple, carefree holidays. Ancient Antissa, Kampos and Lapsarna are excellent locations for swimming and relaxation.

At a short distance from Antissa lies the crossroads, which leads to the splendid beach of Eressos and to picturesque Sigri.

Eressos (89,2 km) is the birthplace of the lyric poetess Sappho and the botanist philosopher Theophrastos. Eressos is one of the most remarkable resorts on the island, with its modern town planning, rows of trees and pleasant hot spots along the beach. The beach extends along a coastline of 2,5km, while the tide is nearly always calm because it is not exposed to the etesian winds. During the summer months, this lovely beach takes on a particular look, as holiday-makers from all around the world flock to enjoy their summer vacation.

If you turn back and arrive at the crossroads and take the road to Sigri, be sure to visit the Moni Ypsilou (Monastery of Ypsilos) which sits at the top of Mount Ordimnos, where there once was a dormant volcano during the quarternary period. From up there, if the weather is good, you can see the Sigri area and if there is good visibility even Limnos, Tenedos and Mount Athos can be sighted.

Continuing on the road to Sigri (94 km), you will surely sense that a change is coming. Its usually windy and combined with the bareness of the landscape, conjure up a mixture of feelings. To think that millions of years ago the whole area was covered in lush vegetation and huge centurion trees with a perimeter of 8,5 m. The intense volcanic activity of Mt. Ordimnos led to the creation of this dead city with its petrified plant citizens. You may thus feel the glory of nature even when bare and austere. Follow the sign which points towards the Petrified Forest, and area where many old tree trunks are gathered. They have not lost their magnificence despite the thousands of years that have passed. Try this itinerary early in the morning before the sun becomes extremely hot. It is as if it the sun were trying to transmit as much energy as possible in this area so as to preserve its unique natural beauty.

The moment you lay your eyes on Sigri, you will experience its refreshing beauty. Small, whitewashed houses which are dominant in the town, give you the impression you’re on an other island. It could be said that it resembles a typical Cycladian landscape. However you soon discover that this place is quite different. If you choose to stay in Sigri overnight, rise early in the morning when the locals do and experience the normally relaxed and calm pace of life of the fishing village.

You’ll soon realise that this area is ideal for all types of fishing. Surfers will be thrilled, by the prevailing winds which are particularly suitable for surfing and of a special quality. Be sure to visit the petrified forest on Megalonisi, the islet opposite Sigri. Don’t just settle for the village beach ; Visit the beach “Panaghia i Faneromeni” (north) and the beach “ta Limena” (south) or even further. Follow the lower dirt road that leads to Eressos and then go down to the bank of “Tsichlionta” river. Experience the exquisite beauty of the secluded beach, even during August.

Alternatively, you could reach this area in the west of Lesbos is by taking the Kalloni - Agra road (70 km). The road was recently laid and most of it is paved. You can admire the view of the Gulf of Yera as you drive along. Decend to Apothika and stop in the old local coffee shop. Mesotopos (midway between Agra and Eressos) is the next village you’ll encounter. Approx. 4 km from the village lies Tavari, a beautiful seaside location with many houses, rooms to let and busy coffee shops lining the shore. Don’t miss “Podaras” beach which lies East of Tavari, with its fertile plain, while to the west “Chrouso” beach with its golden sand and small plain along the bank of Mallonta River.

If you follow the road from Mesotopos, you’ll soon arrive in Eressos and from there on you can see the rest of the west side of the island.

Note : The distances marked in kilometres indicate the distance from Mytilene.