Overview of Limnos
Limnos is probably among the most uncharted Greek island destinations, for both natives and foreigners. The main reasons could be its low-key character and remote position at the Northeast Aegean (also associated with a strong military presence on the island). However, the truth is that Limnos has so much to offer: exceptional natural beauty and ancient sightseeing, marvelous sandy beaches for all tastes, as well as quality local products and gastronomy.
Bays and coves, volcanic rocks, fertile plains, hills and wildlife form part of a virgin landscape, hard to forget. At the same time, tourism and modernity haven’t spoiled the traditional character of the island of god Hephaestus. Myrina, the capital and port, will impress you with its alleys, agora, old stone mansions, picturesque fishing port, busy waterfront and the two bays – Romeiko Gialo (with neoclassical houses) and Turkiko Gialo (the former Turkish quarter). The town’s dominating Venetian castle that overlooks the region seems to have stepped out of a fairytale, especially when it’s lit at night. In Myrina you can also find many find fish taverns and nightlife spots.
The enclosed bay of Moudros is the second largest town on Limnos – among other highlights, it features the islet of Koukonisi, with an important prehistoric settlement. The third largest village on the island is Kondias, with traditional stone houses, windmills, churches and pines. Other popular settlements include the coastal Platy and Thanos (with homonymous beaches), the fertile area of Atsiki, the agricultural village of Sardes (one of the oldest ones on Limnos) and many more. Discovering Limnos means going back to basics: Sun, sea and the traditional Greek island hospitality, in their most authentic version.
Photo gallery of Limnos
Beaches Food Things to see & do
Thanos
: Among the island’s best beaches, it is located at the village of the same name. It is sandy, organized and features strange rock formations and lovely waters. Nearby you can also visit the church of Panagia Kakaviotissa, impressively built inside a grotto, among rugged rocks.Gomati
: A large sandy beach with sun beds, umbrellas and a beach bar, ideal to swim and relax – it is close to the island’s area of ammothines (sand dunes).Keros
: Situated at the bay of the same name, this sandy, organized beach is the perfect place to practice all kinds of water sports.Megalo Fanaraki
: Near Moudros, this sandy beach is organized and popular with young people. Nearby you can visit the scenic beach of Mikro Fanaraki with its beautiful small caves.Riha Nera
: Close to the capital of Myrina, this sandy beach with crystalline shallow waters offers relaxation and all the amenities you could wish for.Man-tella Taverna
: Sardes, Greek cuisine.Platanos
: Myrina, Greek cuisine.Sinialo Tavern
: Myrina, Greek cuisine.Glaros
: Myrina, Greek cuisine, Sea food.Kyma
: Moudros, Greek cuisine.Agios Efstratios / Ai Stratis
: While in Limnos, it is definitely worth visiting this neighboring remote and untouched Greek island. It features pristine beaches and only the basic amenities, making it perfect for nature lovers who prefer low-key vacations. From 1928 until 1963 it used to be a place of exile for political prisoners. The 1968 earthquake left its mark on the traditional architecture, but the island’s character still remains pure and intact.Explore nature
: The highlights of the island’s varied landscape include:- The lakes of Alyki (the biggest natural salt lake in Greece), Chortarolimni and Asprolimni. They are wetland habitats that host many endangered and rare animal species, with focus on migratory birds such as flamingos.
- The impressive area of ammothines (aka golden sand dunes) or Pachies Ammoudes, as locals call it. This place truly resembles a desert.
- The gorgeous waterfalls in the village of Kaspakas. The region is known as “Kremasta Nera” and also features small lakes and plateaus.
- The Petrified Forest in Moudros and the area of Therma (aka hot springs – the former ottoman baths are now restored modern spa facilities).