NATURE

LESVOS ISLANDNATURE

Nature

Wetlands

These are ideal locations for watching and photographing birds and they attract more and more enthusiasts from around the world.

In the wetland of Kalloni Bay the sea has no waves or spoondrift. Sea water is trapped in salt pans. This environment swarming with life is chosen by birds, and bird watchers cannot but follow in spring and autumn months. The coexistence of man and beast has reached the point where flamingos with their long legs and impressive pink plumage are not bothered by human presence. The wetland has been included in Natura 2000 network, and includes, besides the bay marine habitat, a large number of terrestrial wetlands: the saltpans of Kalloni and Polichnitos, the stream beds of Tsiknias, Vouvari, Mylopotamos, Ennia Kamares, Potamia, the lagoon of Messa, etc.

In the eastern part of the island, at the junction of Mytilini-Kalloni and Mytilini-Gera roads, the river Evergetoulas and the marsh of Dipio create another impressive wetland called Dipio-Larso. Many reptile, amphibian, bird and insect species nest in the river mouth.

Wild geese and ducks, herons and other birds searching for food end up in the mouths of the rivers Almyropotamos and Vourkos in the wetland of Vatera. The clay soil and the shallow waters of the area foster the development of various plant and animal species close to the shore.

Hiking - Horse riding - Diving

Hiking

Lesvos can be justifiably considered a hiker’s paradise. Its abundant natural beauty spots, scattered cultural monuments, spectacular views over the Aegean Sea and the shores of Asia Minor, but mainly a network of signposted trails make Lesvos an ideal destination for hikers. Information boards, observation towers and kiosks for hikers to rest, complement the signposting of the trails and enrich the island’s routes.

Horse riding

In the south part of the island, departing from the hamlet of Milies next to the village of Plagia, one can enjoy nature on horseback. Using the old trails islanders once used, visitors have the option of one or two hour rides riding native horse breeds. Dense olive groves, water springs and ruins of old stone houses are features of a unique way of getting to know the inland of Plomari.

Diving

Apart from all available activities on the mainland, Lesvos is also suitable for sea activities. The diving centre, open throughout the year and based at two different locations, provides the opportunity to discover the beauty of the sea bed. In the east part of Lesvos, at Haramida, one of the bases of the diving centre, the small islands of Agios Vassilios and Mersinia are an ideal site for diving, as well as the location of Tartios, with its crystal-clear waters; the shipwreck in the location of Vatera is an open invitation for exploration. In the northeast of the island, at Toukmakia, the second base of the centre, in Petra, a group of islands and reefs rich in biodiversity and morphology of the seabed, are an ideal site for experienced and inexperienced divers alike. An equally appropriate environment can be found at the islets across Petra.

Petrified Forest

If this was a fairy tale, we would be starting with ‘once upon a time, a long time ago, there was a forest in western Lesvos’.

This forest, due to the tectonic plates moving and the ensuing volcanic activity, was lost under the lava.Today, 20 million years later, it is one of the most beautiful and rare monuments of geological heritage in the world.

There is a similar one only in Arizona, USA, but of smaller range and significance. Natural processes and human intervention have revealed impressive tree trunks, branches, roots, fruit and leaves, but also petrified animal bones of shiny colors, unusual combinations and impressive sizes.

Thermal spa springs

Geological changes endowed Lesvos with numerous hot springs, which influenced life on the island. The first settlements in prehistoric times were created near such “miraculous” waters, which provide today’s traveller with a unique therapeutic experience.

The Hot Springs of Thermi are not only therapeutic, but they boast a brilliant history. They are worth a visit, even if you are not interested in a therapeutic bath, just so that you can explore the region’s past. The area flourished during the Hellenistic period, and the Romans used the baths in their daily lives. Places like ancient temples, parts of which were used in later constructions, domed buildings, created under the Ottoman rule by pashas who adored Lesvos, Sarlitza Palace Hotel, designed by French architects and the place Venizelos stayed at, all whisper secrets of History! Modern spa facilities housed in a renovated building with individual baths; is located right next to Sarlitza Palace. The water temperature is 49.9ο C, and the spring is characterized as a ferrous hot spring.

The Gulf of Gera or Korfou Hot Springs are just a few kilometres from Mytilene. In the past, carts and boats used to wait at the calm waters’ jetty and bring over people from the capital for their hot baths. The temperature of the water is 39.7ο C and the spring is characterized as rich in sodium chloride. The common bath with its view of the sea, as well as the stone and marble faucets are also impressive.

Eftalou hot springs are situated on the northern coast of Lesvos, very close to Mithymna. These springs, well up through andesitic tuffs and conglomerates. The temperature of the water is 46.5 ο and, the radiation level 14.7 MACHE; this makes Eftalou hot springs the most radioactive springs on Lesvos. The building where the baths are situated was built in the 17th century and with its curved dome and small sky light windows it provides a magical experience. The four baths in the renovated building situated next to this one are a more modern version of a health spa.

Lisvori hot springs, hidden inside olive groves, spout up through volcanic conglomerates and volcanic tuffs. The water temperature is 69ο C and its chemical components are similar to those of Polichnitos hot springs. There are two swimming pools, one of which has been in use since the time of the Ottoman Empire!

Hot Springs of Gera Gulf «Therma»

The temperature of the water is 39.7 degrees and the source is characterized as chlorosodium. Impressive is the havuza, with windows overlooking the sea and marble and stone faucets.

Hot Springs of Polichnitos

The Hot Springs of Polichnitos are among the hottest in Europe, chlorinated, with two pininas and modern facilities. They are recommended for the treatment of rheumatism and arthropathy.

Source: «Nisson Periplous» Island touring alternatively, Visiting the greek islands off-the-beaten track ISBN: 978-960-98860-4-8
Photos: «Discover Lesvos» Thematic Tour Guide, Municipality of Lesvos ISBN: 978-960-99587-8-3
Photos: Efi Paroutsa