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There's a reason we've been coming here for 20 years
Sitting in the sparkling turquoise Aegean Sea, Lesvos is a warm and sunny emerald gem of Greece. It is a whole continent in miniature: spectacular beaches, high mountains and wild forests on Greece's third largest island.
Due to the island's size and variety, there's something for everyone: beach holidays, activity holidays, gastronomic tours, nature attractions and spectacular geography.
Here at Real Lesvos we aim to gradually make the wonder and attractions of Lesvos more easily available to the UK traveller. In the map below you'll find an ever-increasing list of our favourite things to do and see on Lesvos!
The buzzing of the bees and church bells fill your ears when you visit the “hanging” town of Stipsi that resides on the hillside in the western Lesvos. The town is famed for both its excellent thyme honey and the olive oil made at the local producers’ co-operative. Every time we go to Stipsi, we get lost in time – join us and experience a simpler life.
Stipsi village prides itself on its preservation of the traditional Greek wedding rite! If you’re visiting in spring or late summer, you might be lucky enough to observe some of the joyous ceremonial practises such as when an orchestra serenades and collects the bride and groom from their homes while accompanying them to the church by foot. We promise…a Greek wedding is always an affair to remember!
Stipsi’s beautiful churches adorn the town; find the Church of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary in the backstreets or visit the Holy Trinity church consecrated in 1970, so big it could provide sanctuary to the region’s population! Ai Giorgi church on the edge of town attracts tourists because of the way it rests on an old rock. Look out over the Ligonas ravine and notice the 20 abandoned watermills, holly-oaks, pear trees and wild shrubbery or walk the ancient cobbled path that lines it.
Most of the townspeople work in agriculture and olive growing while the local women’s co-operative makes pasta and sweets as well as beautiful, delicate embroidery. Because of its centuries-old narrow streets, there are few cars around, but the town is a firm favourite for the island’s bikers who race up in force to enjoy Sunday lunch in the year-round tavernas or outside in the square. For quality food at a great price, head to Hani restaurant for anything from chickpeas to a plate of ribs!
Visit in late August to attend the nine-day festival that usually begins on the 23rd in honour of the Virgin Mary. Expect traditional music and dancing and watch the preparation of ‘kiskek’, a dish of beef, lamb’s meat and wheat after they have been slaughtered on ceremonial nights. Try this speciality for a real taste of Lesvos.
Discover more great places to visit and things to do here.