Hiking in the UNESCO Geopark Lesvos

This journey — a varied combination of hikes, scenic drives, and cultural visits — will take you to the most fascinating and beautiful places on the island of Lesvos. There will be plenty of time to observe rare animals, photograph impressive landscapes and details, and explore the island’s unique geological wonders.

Your guide, Tobias Schorr, will introduce you to all the island’s many facets — from nature and geology to history and culture, as well as inspiring photo opportunities. As an experienced photographer, he will gladly share tips for taking better pictures.

The daily itineraries described here serve as a flexible framework and will be adjusted on site to weather conditions and the group’s interests. New opportunities often arise: unexpected encounters with wildlife, hidden viewpoints, or rare plants that enrich our route. Thanks to the intentionally small group size, we can remain spontaneous and enjoy authentic discoveries.

A central theme of this journey is volcanism, which has shaped the island into what it is today. Lesvos, together with the island of Limnos, belongs to the geologically most fascinating regions of ancient Greek volcanism. The further north you travel, the older Greece’s volcanic formations become — offering a remarkable journey through deep geological time.

Especially impressive is the UNESCO Global Geopark Lesvos, which covers large parts of the island. It includes the world-famous Petrified Forest, where millions of years old fossilized tree trunks bear witness to once subtropical forests. Numerous information centers and designated geosites allow you to experience the island’s geological wonders up close.

We will meet no later than at Mytilene Airport and then drive together to our hotel in the Molivos/Mithimna/Petra region or near Thermi.

It may be worthwhile to arrive earlier and spend one or two nights in Athens, as there are currently no direct flights from Germany to Mytilene and a change of planes in Athens is necessary. Be sure to allow at least two hours transfer time to comfortably catch your connecting flight to Lesvos.

Today’s hike first takes us to the thermal springs of Eftalou, located on the north coast of Lesvos, just a few kilometers from Molivos. In the historic bathhouse with its characteristic domed roof, we can immerse ourselves in the hot, mineral-rich thermal waters — a soothing contrast to the fresh sea breeze.

We then continue our hike along the coastline. Our possible destination is the small, picturesque fishing village of Skala Sikamia. If we come across interesting geological features along the way — such as crystal veins, minerals, or unusual rock formations — we may spend more time in the Eftalou area, on the slopes of the Lepetimnos volcano. With a bit of luck, we might even discover rare quartz crystals or other fascinating minerals.

Those who wish can add a detour to Petra. This charming coastal village is known for its long sandy beach and the striking rock crowned by the church of Panagia Glykofilousa, reached via 114 stone steps. From the top, there is a breathtaking view over the village, the wide bay, and even the nearby coast of Asia Minor. Petra invites you to linger with its traditional houses, winding alleys, small shops, and cozy tavernas.

Altogether, this is a wonderfully varied day: thermal springs, coastal trails, geological treasures, and traditional island villages — the perfect combination of nature, geology, and culture.

We first drive through the volcanic mountain landscape of Lesvos along the Gulf of Kalloni. On the way, we pass small forests and traditional villages, stopping at scenic viewpoints to take photos, enjoy nature, and observe local wildlife and plants.

We then continue to the center of the island, where we take a short 45-minute climb to a panoramic summit. From here, there is a spectacular view across large parts of Lesvos and — on clear days — even to the Turkish coast.

From the summit, we descend through dense, shady forests into the medieval mountain town of Agiasos. This picturesque settlement on the slopes of Mount Olympos is famous for its stone-paved alleys, colorful balconies, small artisan workshops, and the pilgrimage church of Panagia Agiasotissa, one of the island’s most important religious sites. Agiasos is known for its almost fairy-tale atmosphere, rich traditions, and vibrant folk art.

On the Platia, the main square, we pause to enjoy a Greek coffee in one of the historic kafeneia before savoring a meal in a traditional taverna with local mezedes — many small, delicious dishes to share.

In the afternoon, we take a leisurely hike along an old mule path down into the island’s central river valley, where ancient plane trees over 2,000 years old stand impressively tall. Nearby once lived and worked the famous folk artist Theophilos Chatzimichael, whose colorful paintings reflect the life and myths of Lesvos.

This excursion beautifully combines landscape, culture, history, and culinary delights — a truly unforgettable day in the heart of Lesvos.

Today we visit the impressive thermal springs of Polichnitos, among the hottest in Europe. At their outlets, the water reaches temperatures of up to 87 °C. Deep underground, it is heated by volcanic activity and rises back to the surface along rock fissures. In the natural pools and the hot river, you can clearly see mineral deposits forming and even fossilization processes taking place. Those who wish may enjoy a relaxing bath in the healing waters, while others can explore and photograph the fascinating surroundings.

Afterwards, we continue to the southern coast to Skala Polichnitos, where we have lunch right by the water in a traditional taverna and enjoy local specialties.

In the afternoon, we take a short hike to Cape Agios Fokas, a scenic spot on the southern coast that offers wide views and also holds traces of ancient history. We then drive on to the endless sandy beach of Vatera, the longest beach on Lesvos. Depending on the weather, there is time for a refreshing swim in the sea or simply to relax by the water.

In the late afternoon, we return comfortably to Thermi or Anaxos and end the day at a leisurely pace.

Drive to the charming fishing harbor of Skala Sikaminea, then on to Molyvos and Petra, passing through an almost desert-like landscape formed by the deposits of the catastrophic volcanic eruptions 23 million years ago. Our destination is the village of Sigri, where we will stay overnight.

After breakfast, we visit one of the finest geological museums in Greece — the Natural History Museum of the Petrified Forest of Lesvos. Even those with little prior interest in geology will see the island’s landscape with completely new eyes after this visit.

The museum vividly explains how the island was shaped by volcanic forces and how, about 12 million years ago, massive flows of hot ash and lava buried a vast subtropical forest, creating one of the largest and best-preserved petrified forests in the world. Impressive exhibits, models, and interactive displays illustrate the formation of the Earth, volcanic activity, and the unique geology that earned Lesvos its status as a UNESCO Global Geopark. Particularly fascinating are the giant petrified tree trunks, including remains of ancient sequoias and other species that once reached up to 40 meters in height.

After visiting the museum, we continue to the UNESCO park of the Petrified Forest, where the tree trunks can still be seen in situ — an extraordinary photo opportunity! The original wood has been replaced by minerals such as quartz and opal, now shimmering with gemstone-like colors and textures.

This day offers a perfect combination of science, nature, and spectacular landscapes — a journey through Earth’s history you will never forget.

We keep this day flexible — depending on the group’s interests and the weather. One wonderful option is a hike or drive to the famous beach of Eresos, one of the most beautiful beaches on Lesvos. The endless sandy shoreline stretches for nearly three kilometers and is surrounded by an impressive volcanic rock landscape. The bay of Eresos lies in a fertile valley, once shaped by lava flows and now home to olive groves, fig trees, and lush vegetation.

Those who wish can take a short 20–30 minute climb up to the ancient acropolis of Eresos. From there, you have a magnificent view of the coast, the bay, and the valley. Eresos is not only scenically stunning but also historically significant: it is the birthplace of the famous poet Sappho, whose lyric poetry shaped world literature.

For lunch, we stop at one of the charming beach tavernas built on wooden decks directly over the water. Fresh fish, mezedes, and local specialties can be enjoyed in a relaxed atmosphere. Afterwards, you may take a refreshing swim in the sea or simply enjoy the unique vibe of Eresos.

In the afternoon, we return to Sigri.

Today we return to Mytilene Airport and travel via Athens back to your home destination. An extension of your stay on Lesvos or in Athens is possible.

• Transfer from Mytilene Airport to the hotels and back
• Accommodation in the Molivos/Petra or Thermia region and in Sigri
• Entrance fees to museums & archaeological sites
• Half board on all days
• Tour guidance by Tobias Schorr
• Transportation by rental car or minibus

• Flight from your home airport to Mytilene and back
• Your personal equipment
• Your travel insurance (we can arrange insurance upon request)
• Souvenirs
• Tips
• Alcoholic beverages

You will stay either in a comfortable hotel in the Molivos/Petra area or in a charming hotel near Thermi. All accommodations are equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, private bathroom with shower/WC, and a balcony. Breakfast will be enjoyed at the hotels, while for lunch or dinner we will visit the many restaurants and tavernas in the surrounding area or at our excursion destinations. At the end of the journey, we will stay in Sigri.

The trip is possible with a minimum of 4 participants and limited to a maximum of 8 participants. Smaller groups or private tours can be arranged for an additional fee.

9 days on the island of Lesbos — €2,490
Single room supplement: €250

If you wish, we can book your flights from your home airport to Mytilene and back for you. Additional overnight stays on Lesbos or in Athens are also possible!

16.05.2026 - 24.05.2026

Tobias Schorr has been living on the most western part of the active Greek volcanoes, the peninsula Methana. From 1996 he is doing guided, geological and photographic hiking tours on Santorini island. He is an experienced expert of Santorini and knows about the nature, geology and history of this interesting region. On his walking tours he will show you all aspects of Santorini. He will guide you to the most beautiful photo points, interesting geological and archaeological sites and discovers rare animals and plants (like orchids). He has got long experience as an co-founder of an volcanological tour operator in organising geological & volcanological tours to all 4 Greek volcanoes, to Ethiopia and other regions.