Agra, Anemotia, Skalochori, Filia, Arisvi, Dafia, Kerami, Parakila

The heart of Lesvos beats in Kalloni — a place of unique natural beauty, rich gastronomy, and a history that dates back to the time of Aristotle.

🏛️ History & Culture

Kalloni, located at the heart of the island, has been an important commercial and intellectual hub since antiquity. Its gulf served as a natural observation laboratory for Aristotle, laying the foundations of Biology. From the “Aristotle’s Lagoon” to ancient coins, a thriving weaving tradition, and rich agricultural customs, Kalloni beautifully connects the natural environment with science, gastronomy, and everyday life.

🌿 Villages & Locations

🏙️ Kalloni
The capital of Western Lesvos and a natural gateway in all directions. Full of life, local markets, traditional cafés, and easy access to all the island’s experiences. Its fertile valley and the gulf of the same name nourish the area’s gastronomy, ecosystem, and identity.

🐟 Skala Kallonis
A picturesque fishing village with tourist amenities, beach bars, and the perfect setting for cycling and relaxation. It’s famous for the Kalloni sardine, celebrated every August in a festival with food, music, and dancing. Its sandy beach, sunny walks, and rich ecosystem make it ideal for all ages.

🏞️ Parakila
A village with rich history, Roman ruins, and trails leading to waterfalls and unique geological formations. It maintains a rural character, while its weaving tradition and Ottoman remnants create a mosaic of eras. The café decorated with seashells is a living work of art.

🧱 Arisvi
A small traditional village with a lovely square, historical significance, and a refugee heritage. It hosts descendants of Asia Minor Greeks and remains a calm and hospitable place with a subtle cultural strength. Its proximity to the site of the ancient city adds to its importance.

🌲 Agra
A mountain village nestled in a pine forest, with a shady square and a centuries-old tree once used as a natural refrigerator. Known for the Rhodotichos site, Makara beach, and its honest simplicity. Ancient stones and the sounds of the mountain create an almost mythical atmosphere.

🍷 Anemotia
Built in the caldera of an ancient volcano, with a long tradition of winemaking and cultural festivals centered around viticulture. The Church of Saint George stands at the village’s heart, offering a strong sense of historical continuity. Ideal for exploration and peaceful views over the plains.

🕌 Skalochori
A dense, traditional village with cobbled alleys, Ottoman landmarks, a turtle pond, and scenic hiking trails. One of the most authentic villages in the region, where tradition and nature coexist. Nearby Kalo Limani beach and the archaeological site of Ancient Antissa make it perfect for explorers.

🧀 Filia
A charming village with 19th-century stone buildings, cobbled streets, and welcoming cafés. Known for its local products like rice pudding, yogurt, feta, and traditional sweets, it offers a taste of authentic Lesvian life. A beloved stop for food lovers.

🏞️ Kerami
A peaceful village set in a lush valley, with a historic church from 1733 and hand-painted murals worth discovering. Once known for its ceramics, today it offers tranquility, connection with nature, and the charm of a forgotten paradise.

⛪ Monasteries

  • Monastery of Leimonos (Saint Ignatius) – A landmark monastery in western Lesvos, known for its rare manuscripts, museum, secret school (kryfo scholeio), and small zoo. Entry to the main church is permitted only to men.

📸 Activities & Nature

  • Birdwatching in the Gulf of Kalloni, the salt pans, and the Skala Kallonis wetlands
  • Hiking in Parakila, Anemotia, and Skalochori
  • Exploring Rhodotichos, the waterfalls, and archaeological ruins

🍽️ Gastronomy

  • Kalloni Sardine (P.D.O.)
  • Sardine Festival with local flavors, music, and dancing
  • Local products: wine, yogurt, sweets, tsipouro, jams, pasta

✨ Don't Miss it:

  • Try Kalloni papalina (sardine) in the shade with a sea view
  • Walk through the Kalloni wetlands in springtime
  • Discover the authentic weaving heritage in Parakila
  • Visit the Leimonos Monastery and its precious library
  • Photograph the red poppy fields in full bloom during spring