Eresos – Antissa - The land of Sappho, the Petrified Forest, and pure authenticity.

The land of Sappho, the Petrified Forest, and pure authenticity.

🏛️ History & Culture

Eresos is the birthplace of Sappho and Theophrastus, a student of Aristotle, while Antissa was a significant ancient center and is said to be the homeland of the poet Terpander. On the acropolis of ancient Eresos lies “Vigla,” with excavations and mosaic floors, while near Antissa, the oracle of Orpheus is believed to have once stood. Historic mansions, ancient coins, and royal temples form the rich heritage of western Lesvos, reflecting its enduring importance in culture and commerce. Ask ChatGPT

🌿 Villages & Locations

🏖️ Skala Eresou
One of the most iconic beaches of Lesvos, with volcanic sand, beach bars, tavernas, and a lively atmosphere. Every September it hosts the International Women’s Festival, blending art, music, dance, and free expression. The unique combination of nature, culture, and historical significance makes it truly one of a kind.

🌋 Sigri
A true geological treasure! The Petrified Forest and the Natural History Museum offer a world-class experience — complete with an earthquake simulator and an underwater exhibit. Sigri is peaceful, bathed in light and wide horizons, with breathtaking views and a timeless sense of harmony.

🏰 Antissa
A traditional semi-mountainous village with historical references to antiquity, the oracle of Orpheus, and the cave of “Chaos.” Antissa combines oak forests, old watermills, natural trails, and a primeval energy. The village is filled with tales — from ancient gods to modern folk stories.

🎨 Chidira
Birthplace of the painter Georgios Jakobides. Home to Greece’s first digital art museum, where visitors can discover the artist’s work through interactive exhibits. The village offers tranquility, natural beauty, and exceptional dairy products.

🧱 Vatousa
A stone-built gem with rose-colored walls, museum-like mansions, and impressive churches. Its traditional character remains intact, with cobbled alleys and stone houses that feel like a time capsule. Vatousa is a perfect destination for those who appreciate authentic rural beauty.

🏞️ Pterounda
Nestled among ferns and volcanic rock, the village keeps the memory of the past alive. Highlights include its red-stone houses, a charming stone bridge, and the Vathylimnos waterfall — all combining to create a magical natural setting.

🎭 Mesotopos
A picturesque village that keeps tradition alive through the Dionysian “Koudounata” carnival. In summer, enjoy swimming at Chrousos and the fishing village of Tavari. The local cuisine and women’s cooperatives make Mesotopos a culinary destination with character.

🪨 Gavathas
A small fishing village with a sandy beach and postcard-like charm. The chapel of Saint Panteleimon atop the hill adds a touch of serenity and romance to the landscape.

🌳 Liota
A small, authentic village with a traditional taverna nestled under a massive hollow tree — large enough to seat over ten people. A place where you feel connected to both nature and community.

⛪ Μonasteries

Pithariou Monastery (16th c.) – A men’s monastery with an artificial lake and a picturesque location in a ravine near Eresos.
Ypsilou Monastery – The oldest monastery in Lesvos, castle-like in form, offering breathtaking views and a strong spiritual aura.
Perivolis Monastery – A women’s monastery by the Voulgaris River, featuring a carved wooden iconostasis and 16th-century frescoes.

📸 Activities & Nature

Birdwatching in wetlands (Faneromeni, Tsichliota, Lapsarna, Faros, Elafi, Chrousos, and more).
Hiking to the “Chaos” cave and the Grigorelia area near Antissa.
Exploring the Petrified Forest and its underwater section on Nissiopi Island.