Where to swim

Vatera, the island's largest beach, is unique due to the thick red sand, at Tsamakia there are sunbeds, at Agios Isidoros you will pick up pebbles for your collection, at Faneromeni you will find peace and quiet, at Psiriara nudism is at its peak, Agios Ermogenis beach is ideal for retro photographs, Eftalou with its hot springs will take away all ailments. Hamam baths at Molyvos, Polichnito (one of the hottest springs in Europe), Loutropoli, Mantamado and Therma at Gera's bay.

Where to eat

Aspros Gatos at Neapoli Mytilinis with Greek and international dishes. At Mperdema they mix food with talent. Fresh fish at Anemoessa at Skala Sykamnias. Spaghetti at Platanos at Myrina for pasta and more. If you are looking for something special: kiouzlemedes, local cheese pies, sougania, onion dolma, you will find them at Vafeios, in the village by the same name near Molyvos. At the ouzo place Ermis you will find local ambiance, great views to the port and great octopus on the plate.

Where to stay

At the luxurious Lesvos Inn at Pyrgoi Thermis (+30 71781), decorated with expensive marbles and granites. At Malemi Hotel (www.malemi.com, +30 22594) at Kalloni, family friendly and near the beach, at Aphroditi Hotel (+30 71725-8) near Molyvos and Eftalou with a private beach. Pasifai (+30 23212-3) at Skala Kallonis, gay friendly with a wonderful garden.

What to buy

Ouzo, ladotyri (local cheese), olive oil, barley rusks, almond desserts, traditional handiwork. You will find excellent quality local products made with love by local producers in every corner of the island. The Lesvos highlight: don't miss the “Greek sushi”: fresh sardines, drenched in salt for four hours and served raw.

Area Code: +30 22530 (Mytilini, Agios Ermogenis, Vareia, Neapoli, Charamida)

Police: +30 22021

Port Authority: +30 40827

Town Hall: +30 27777 28811

First Aid: +30 57700