Mithimna Villas

Villas Mithimna can found be overlooking the historic town of Molyvos, also known as Mithymna, on the north coast of the Greek island of Lesbos, in the heart of the azure Aegean Sea. The nearest international airport is Mytilini Odysseas Elytis, sixty-five kilometres south of the villa, an hour and a quarter’s drive through the Greek countryside. If you are island hopping arrive at the port of Mytilini, which is sixty-two kilometres away. The villa is within walking distance of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Molyvos, where you will find a medieval castle, Orthodox churches, cobbled streets, traditional tavernas, and a fabulous organised beach.

The nearest beach is just five hundred metres away, a short stroll through the dunes and you are there. The beautiful beach of Efthalou is a few kilometres north of the villa, famous for its stunning sunsets, whilst picturesque Petra Bay, is a short drive south. The capital town of Mytilini is an hour’s drive away, where you can wander around the Archaeological Museum, the Byzantine Museum, the Folk Art Museum, the Museum of Costume and Embroidery, and the Theophilus Art Museum. Climb the famous castle fortifications for some stunning sea views, then walk the Roman aqueduct and admire their technical skills. Mytilini reflects its history in the number of Greek Orthodox and Roman Catholic churches, its many Byzantine monasteries, and mosques still there from the time of Ottoman rule. Make sure you don’t miss the local markets, selling hand-pressed olive oil, hive honey, carved woodwork, and homemade cheeses. After all that you’ve earned yourself a glass of ouzo and a plate of Greek mezes in a street side café, or treat yourself to some freshly caught fish, most notably the local sardines, in a seafront restaurant.

If you are feeling active there are lots of hiking trails, where you can discover the local flora and fauna. Take a tour of over two hundred caves scattered across the island, believed to be originally neolithic places of worship. Marvel at the natural hot springs of Efthalia, Thermes, and Gera. Discover an underwater marine world snorkelling and scuba diving. Sunbathe on one of the many varied beaches that populate the coastline, and partake in water sports, most especially windsurfing. Visit villages as old as time, especially Lafiona, Agiassos, Plomari and Skala Sikimias, and see how the islanders really live. Lose yourself in the unique and natural phenomenon that is the Petrified Forest, created from intense volcanic activity. Then visit the neighbouring museum at Sigri, which is dedicated to researching, promoting, displaying, and preserving it. Go on a wine tour and sample the fruits of the harvest, and most of all make sure you don’t miss the World of Ouzo Museum at Isodoros Avvanitis.

At the end of a busy day sightseeing, sit back and watch the stars appear on the big screen as the stars come out to shine at the open-air cinema specially constructed for the summer. Venture further afield, from the port at Mytilini boards a ferry to the neighbouring islands of Lindos, Samos, Chios, and beyond.

Read more about Lesbos

The volcanic island of Lesvos (often spelled as Lesbos) offers visitors pretty villages, impressive nature, fascinating geology and gorgeous beaches as well as a fascinating history and rich island culture.

Seasonally, international flights arrive at the island’s airport around 7km south of the island’s capital city, Mytilene, or sail to Lesvos from various Greek ports including Piraeus, Athens.

Fall in love with the island beaches from the long shores of Vatera Beach with watersports, sun loungers and umbrellas to more remote spots accessible only by boat. Keen snorkellers will love the clear waters of Tsonia Beach or you may prefer to sip cocktails overlooking Paralia Tarti’s crystal-clear sea. If you can find the time, soak up the summer ambience of the lively beach at Molyvos with idyllic sunsets over the Aegean.  

The island’s nature is inspiring with ample bird-watching opportunities, especially around the salt pans of Kalloni where migratory birds stop en route from Africa to Europe. In the springtime, look out for rare sightings of birds and beautiful wild flowers as you follow a network of hiking trails across the mountains and wild forests. Cycling is another wonderful way to experience the natural beauty and authentic Greek charm of Lesvos.  

With archaeological sites and historic castles, there are many sites where you can learn all about the island’s diverse and often turbulent history. Admire the Roman aqueduct in Moria, the Byzantine castle in Molyvos and the impressive fort in in Mytilene. Visitors will also appreciate the island’s hot springs and spas, many which have been used for centuries, and Lesvos’ rich heritage in olive oil and ouzo production – a visit to The World of Ouzo Museum and distillery is an interesting detour.

Another great highlight of the island is The Petrified Forest, dating back 20 million years -the fossilised tree stumps underwent the process of petrification during the active volcanic period. Learn more about this unique natural site, at the forest’s Natural History museum around 11km from the remote fishing harbour of Sigri.