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The lush, green island of Lesvos is like no other. It is the third largest in the Aegean Archipelago behind Crete and Evia. Virtually unaffected by the mass tourism that has turned other islands into amusement parks, Lesvos is the perfect place to visit for people who want to experience the real Greece. The history of the island is as colourful as it's traditions, not surprising when you consider that it has been ruled successively by the Byzantines, the Genoese and the Turks. The island was finally liberated as recently as 1912. The repeated wars and raids over the centuries caused the islanders to build inland settlements and many fortifications on the coastlines. 
The remains of these and many other historical monuments can still be seen today and some have been preserved to exceptional standards. In fact Lesvos is one of the few islands in Greece where most of the towns and villages have been preserved with much of the original architectural heritage intact. Among the remarkable treasures to be found here are a wealth of museums, galleries, archeological excavations and natural phenomenon. There are numerous sand and pebble beaches and many sheltered and isolated coves dotted along the spectacular indented coastline. Two huge natural bodies of water, the Gulf of Yera in the North and the Gulf of Kalloni in the centre give the island it's 'leaf like' shape and create fertile agricultural plains and valleys. 
The breathtaking landscape rolls through regions of pine-covered mountains to areas of barren, yet dramatic volcanic stone.
Enormous Olive groves are a noticeable feature here, and no wonder. It is estimated that there are over 11 million trees on the island producing a huge quantity of oil and fruit. It seems that since time began, the olive oil here has been produced using the oldest traditions and the highest standards. It is believed that the oil is one of the most balanced sources of natural nutrition and is introduced into the daily diet of the Greeks from early childhood onwards. History shows that Ancient Greek civilizations depended upon the oil for fuel, medicine, food and even perfume. 
The olive tree is still today noted as one of the most sacred representations in many religions and has always been a symbol of tranquility, peace and fertility. In his many writings Homer referred to olive oil as liquid gold. The truth is, whichever way you look at it, there is more to olive oil than just a salad dressing.
The temperate climate, inland rivers and natural springs all contribute to maintain the surprisingly lush vegetation of the island. Lesvos is world renowned for it's many varied species of flora and fauna. It is also host to a superb petrified forest located on the Western tip of the island between Eressos and Sigri and natural thermal springs known for their therapeutic and healing attributes. This is a land steeped in tradition and rich in history and culture. The natural charm and picturesque views allow endless opportunity for exploration and discovery. Wherever you choose to stay on the island, the chances are you will begin your journey from either Mytilini, the capital of Lesvos and host to the Airport and commercial Seaport, or from the smaller and less known port of Sigri. Wherever your final destination is, you will find yourself astounded as the spectacular scenery will unfold itself around you throughout your journey. 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 'kalimera' for no apparent reason whatsoever! 
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