West Lesvos

The west side of the island is dry and barren, totally unlike the eastern side.  It might not look that far on the map, but the roads here are slow and winding.  It’ll take a couple of hours to get out here from Mytilini, so this is not the place to hang out on the day of the wedding.  

Villages

Eressos Ερεσός

Home of the famous female poet Sappho, this village was an important cultural center in ancient times.  It is now a popular tourist destination, and there are plenty of places to eat, drink, shop, etc.

Sites

Natural History Museum of the Petrified Forest Μουσείο Φυσικής Ιστορίας Απολιθωμένου Δάσους

In the village of Sigri there is a modern natural history museum about the petrified forest and natural history of the island.  There are a few petrified logs on display at the museum itself, but we recommend driving out to the park up in the mountains above town. (5€/person) Official Site

Petrified Forest Απολιθωμένο Δάσος

Ok, so you’ve seen the petrified forest in Arizona? Well, this one is more impressive; it’s also the only petrified forest in Europe. The petrified tree trunks here are still upright.  The trees were actually sequoias like the ones in California.  Now the landscape is barren and dry.  All the trees are made of stone, so you should bring a hat and water because there is not much shade. (2€/person) Official Site

Beaches

Sigri Σίγρι

This beach is protected by a small island just offshore.  The sunsets here on the west side of the island are amazing.  This is a good swimming stop if you’re visiting the petrified forest.

Skala Eressou Σκάλα Ερεσού

Also near the petrified forest, this is a nice sandy beach.  There are plenty of bars and restaurants right by the beach, so this spot has hopping nightlife.

(€)  indicates that there is an entrance fee.