Lesbos lies at a very short distance from the Turkish coast and is the third largest island in Greece. Its people traditionally make a living from fishing, farming, cheese-making, and growing olives, fruit, and vegetables. Tourism is a comparative newcomer, accounting for only about 10% of the local economy, which helps keep the island feeling authentically Greek rather than resort-oriented.
Lesbos was the birthplace of Sappho, the ancient Greek poet, and of Aesop, who wrote the celebrated book of fables. The distinctive rocky, volcanic landscape with its plentiful oak and pine forests is dotted with thermal springs, fine examples of Byzantine architecture, and stunning beaches.
The capital of the island is Mytilini. Other notable destinations include Molyvos (with its castle perched on a hilltop above a harbour full of fishing boats), Petra, Anaxos, and Skala Kalloni.
