Lesbos

 

Lesbos, also known as Mytilini, is one of the four largest Greek islands. It is lying in the northeastern Aegean Sea across the coast of Asia Minor. The longest end of the island is 70km and the width reaches 45km. The land of Lesvos which comprises 1698 sq. km. is the result of volcanic eruptions and it is anomalous and stony with a lot of mineral water springs. The variety of its land (mountainous, flat, valley like etc.) creates a respective variety of landscapes with b contrasts such as the simple pleasantness of the eastern coasts and the wild mountainous magnificent landscape of Lepetymnos in the north, the abundantly wooded slopes of Agiassos and the forsaken loneliness of the geologically disturbed southwestern area around Sigri. Vast olive groves, dense pine forests, sandy beaches, monasteries and traditional houses compose the first impression that enchants the visitor. This is an island with a long history - homeland of Sappho the poetess, to Arion the guitar singer, to the musician Terpandros - which today continues its tradition by producing first - rate names in painting, poetry and literature.
Due to its mild and healthy climate with its temperate winter, its many rainfalls, its bright spring and sunny summer, Lesvos is a very productive island. The fishing industry is also very developed (Kalloni's salted sardines are famous). During the recent years tourism has become a major contribution in Lesvos economy.
The highest mountain is Lepetymnos (968m) in the northern part of the island followed by Olympos in the south and Ordymnos in the west.