The Village of Anaxos

Anaxos is a picturesque village on the island of Lesvos, Greece. It is located on the south coast of the island, about 10 kilometers from the capital, Mytilene. The village is thought to have been founded in the 13th century by refugees from Constantinople, who were fleeing the Ottoman Turks.

Anaxos is a popular tourist destination, and it is easy to see why. It has a beautiful beach, crystal-clear waters, and a relaxed atmosphere. It is also home to a number of historical and cultural attractions, including the ruins of an ancient theater, and a charming taverna that dates back to the 19th century.

There are many reasons to visit Anaxos. It is a great place to relax and soak up the sun, and it is also a good base for exploring the rest of the island. The village is home to a number of friendly and welcoming people, and it is a great place to experience Greek culture and hospitality.

When it comes to accommodation, Anaxos has a variety of options to suit all budgets. There are a number of hotels and apartments to choose from, as well as a number of guesthouses and villas.

Beaches in Anaxos

Anaxos is home to a stunning array of beaches, each with its own unique charm and character. The main beach, Anaxos Beach, is a long stretch of golden sand that gently slopes into the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea. It is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles.

Just a short walk from the main beach, you will find a series of smaller, more secluded coves. These are ideal for those who seek a more private and tranquil beach experience. One of the most popular coves is Tsamakia Beach, which is known for its stunning turquoise waters and dramatic rock formations.

If you are looking for a more active beach experience, there are plenty of water sports on offer in Anaxos. You can rent kayaks, paddleboards, and windsurfing equipment, or take a boat trip to explore the nearby islands.

After a long day of swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, you can relax and enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many beach tavernas in Anaxos. These tavernas serve a variety of traditional Greek dishes, as well as fresh seafood caught daily by local fishermen.

History and Culture

Anaxos is a village with a rich history and culture, dating back to ancient times. The village was first mentioned in the 6th century BC by the Greek historian Herodotus, who described it as a thriving port town. In the 4th century BC, Anaxos was conquered by Alexander the Great, and it became part of the Macedonian Empire. After the fall of the Macedonian Empire, Anaxos was ruled by the Romans, the Byzantines, and the Ottomans.

The Ancient Theatre of Mytilene is one of the most impressive historical sites in Anaxos. The theatre was built in the 3rd century BC, and it could seat up to 6,000 people. The theatre is still used today for performances and concerts.

The Fortress of Mytilene is another important historical site in Anaxos. The fortress was built by the Byzantines in the 13th century, and it was used to protect the town from attack. The fortress is now a popular tourist attraction, and it offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea.

The Archaeological Museum of Mytilene houses a collection of artifacts from the ancient city of Mytilene. The museum's collection includes pottery, sculptures, and jewelry. The museum is a great place to learn more about the history of Anaxos and the surrounding area.

The Folklore Museum of Mytilene is a museum that exhibits traditional Greek costumes, textiles, and household objects. The museum is a great place to learn more about Greek culture and traditions.

Food and Drink

Anaxos offers a wide variety of dining options, from traditional Greek tavernas to international restaurants. Seafood lovers will be in heaven, as the local tavernas serve up fresh catches of the day, grilled to perfection. For a taste of local cuisine, try dishes such as kleftiko (slow-cooked lamb), souvlaki (grilled meat skewers), and moussaka (eggplant and potato casserole).

Local dishes to try:

Kleftiko: Slow-cooked lamb with potatoes and vegetables, cooked in a traditional clay oven.
Souvlaki: Grilled meat skewers, usually made with lamb, chicken, or pork.
Moussaka: Eggplant and potato casserole, topped with a creamy béchamel sauce.
Pastitsio: Pasta casserole, made with macaroni, minced meat, and béchamel sauce.
Dolmades: Stuffed grape leaves, filled with rice, herbs, and spices.

Seafood restaurants:

To Kyma: A popular seafood restaurant, located right on the beach.
To Limani: Another great seafood restaurant, with stunning views of the harbor.
The Fish Taverna: A family-run restaurant, serving up fresh catches of the day.

Ouzo tasting:

Ouzo Plomari: A local ouzo distillery, offering tours and tastings.
The Ouzeri: A traditional Greek ouzeri, serving up ouzo and meze (small dishes).

Olive oil production:

The Olive Press: A local olive oil producer, offering tours and tastings.
The Olive Museum: A museum dedicated to the history and production of olive oil.

Hiking and Nature

Anaxos is a great base for exploring the natural beauty of Lesvos. Mount Olympus, the highest mountain on the island, is just a short drive away. The mountain offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is a popular spot for hiking and camping.

The nearby Petrified Forest is another must-see for nature lovers. This unique forest is home to hundreds of petrified trees that were once part of a lush forest that covered the island millions of years ago. Today, the trees stand as a testament to the power of nature and are a popular spot for hiking and photography.

In addition to Mount Olympus and the Petrified Forest, there are several other hiking trails in the area. These trails wind through olive groves, forests, and along the coast, offering hikers a chance to experience the beauty of the island's natural landscape.

Wildlife spotting is another popular activity in Anaxos. The island is home to a variety of animals, including birds, reptiles, and mammals. Birdwatchers can spot a variety of migratory birds, including storks, flamingos, and eagles. Reptile enthusiasts can find snakes, lizards, and turtles. And mammal lovers can spot deer, rabbits, and foxes.

Things to Do

Anaxos offers a range of activities for visitors of all ages.

Stroll through the village and discover the local market, where you can browse handmade crafts, fresh produce, and souvenirs.

Take a boat trip from the picturesque harbor, where you can swim in crystal-clear waters, snorkel amidst vibrant marine life, or simply relax on the deck and soak up the stunning coastal views.

For a more adventurous experience, try your hand at fishing, either from the shore or by renting a boat. The local waters are teeming with a variety of fish species, making it a popular spot for both amateur and experienced anglers.

Immerse yourself in the local culture by attending a traditional Greek festival. These lively events showcase traditional music, dance, and food, providing an unforgettable glimpse into the vibrant culture of the island.

Getting to Anaxos

Anaxos is easily accessible by various means of transportation, allowing visitors to choose the option that best suits their convenience and budget.

By plane: The closest airport to Anaxos is Mytilene International Airport (MJT), located approximately 10 kilometers from the village. Regular flights connect the airport to major cities in Greece and some international destinations, making it a convenient gateway to the island. Upon arrival at the airport, travelers can take a taxi, rent a car, or take a bus to reach Anaxos.

By ferry: Ferries from Athens and other Greek islands, such as Chios and Samos, offer a scenic alternative to reach Anaxos. The journey from Piraeus, the main port of Athens, takes about 10 hours. Once the ferry docks at the port of Mytilene, passengers can take a taxi or bus to Anaxos, which takes approximately 30 minutes.

By bus: For those seeking a budget-friendly option, buses from Athens and Thessaloniki, the second-largest city in Greece, provide a comfortable and reliable mode of transportation to Anaxos. The journey from Athens takes about 12 hours, while from Thessaloniki it takes approximately 8 hours. Buses arrive at the bus station in Mytilene, from where travelers can take a taxi or bus to reach Anaxos.

Car rental: Renting a car is a popular choice for those who want the freedom to explore Anaxos and its surroundings at their own pace. Several car rental agencies are available at Mytilene Airport and in the city of Mytilene, offering a wide range of vehicles to suit different needs and budgets. By renting a car, visitors can easily visit other parts of the island, such as the petrified forest or Mount Olympus, and discover hidden gems off the beaten track.

Where to Stay in Anaxos

Anaxos offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. From luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels, there is something for everyone.

For those who prefer a comfortable and hassle-free stay, there are several hotels in Anaxos that offer a variety of amenities, including swimming pools, restaurants, and bars. Some popular options include the Anaxos Hotel, the Lesvos Hotel, and the Mytilene Hotel.

For those who prefer a more independent and affordable option, there are several apartments and villas available for rent in Anaxos. These typically offer more space and privacy than hotels, and many of them are located within walking distance of the beach.

For those who are on a tight budget, there are several hostels in Anaxos that offer basic but comfortable accommodation. These are a great option for backpackers and other budget-minded travelers.

Finally, for those who prefer to camp, there is a small campsite located just outside of Anaxos. This is a great option for those who want to be close to nature and enjoy the outdoors.

Eating Out in Anaxos

Anaxos offers a wide range of dining options, from traditional Greek tavernas to international restaurants and seafood restaurants.

Traditional Greek tavernas offer a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the food is always fresh and delicious. Some of the best tavernas in Anaxos include To Kyma, located right on the beach, and To Steki, which serves up traditional Greek dishes such as moussaka and pastitsio.

International restaurants are also well represented in Anaxos. If you're looking for a change from Greek food, you can find everything from Italian to Chinese to Indian cuisine. Some of the most popular international restaurants in Anaxos include La Piazza, which serves up delicious Italian pizzas and pasta, and The Spice Route, which offers a variety of Indian dishes.

Seafood restaurants are a must-visit for any seafood lover. Anaxos is home to several excellent seafood restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh fish and seafood dishes such as grilled octopus, calamari, and lobster. Some of the best seafood restaurants in Anaxos include To Limani, which is located right on the harbor, and To Nissaki, which offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea.

Ouzeries are a type of Greek restaurant that specializes in serving ouzo, a traditional Greek spirit. Ouzeries typically serve a variety of small dishes, or meze, to accompany the ouzo. Some of the best ouzeries in Anaxos include To Ouzeri tou Tassou, which offers a wide variety of meze, and To Ouzeri tis Kyrias, which is located in the heart of the village.

Shopping in Anaxos

Anaxos offers a variety of shopping opportunities, from local handicrafts to souvenir shops.

The main shopping area is located along the main street, where you will find shops selling everything from clothes and jewelry to souvenirs and local products.

If you are looking for unique gifts, be sure to visit the local market, where you can find handmade crafts, olive oil, and other local products.

For those who love to cook, there are several shops selling spices, herbs, and other culinary delights.

And of course, no trip to Greece would be complete without buying some olive oil. Anaxos has several shops selling locally produced olive oil, so you can be sure that you are getting the best quality.

Nightlife in Anaxos

Anaxos offers a lively nightlife scene, with something to suit everyone's taste. For those who enjoy dancing, there are several nightclubs and bars that play a variety of music, from Greek pop to international hits. Many of these venues also have live music performances on certain nights of the week.

If you're looking for a more relaxed evening, there are plenty of bars and tavernas that offer a more laid-back atmosphere. These places are perfect for enjoying a drink or two while watching the world go by. Many of them also serve delicious Greek food, so you can make a night of it.

For those who want to experience traditional Greek culture, there are several tavernas that offer live Greek music and dancing. These tavernas are a great place to let loose and have some fun while enjoying the unique atmosphere of Anaxos.

No matter what your taste, you're sure to find something to enjoy in Anaxos's nightlife scene. So put on your dancing shoes, grab a drink, and get ready to have a night to remember!

Things to Do for Families in Anaxos

Anaxos is a great place for families with children of all ages. There are plenty of activities to keep kids entertained, including water sports, boat trips, mini golf, and horse riding.

Water sports are a great way to cool off and have fun in the sun. There are several water sports centers in Anaxos that offer a variety of activities, such as jet skiing, water skiing, and wakeboarding.

Boat trips are a great way to see the island from a different perspective. There are several boat tour operators in Anaxos that offer a variety of trips, from short sightseeing cruises to longer day trips to nearby islands.

Mini golf is a great activity for families with young children. There is a mini golf course in Anaxos that is suitable for all ages.

Horse riding is a great way to explore the island's countryside. There are several horse riding stables in Anaxos that offer a variety of rides, from short pony rides for young children to longer trail rides for more experienced riders.

Day Trips from Anaxos

Anaxos is a great base for exploring the rest of the island of Lesbos. Here are some popular day trip destinations:

Mount Olympus

Mount Olympus is the highest mountain in Greece, located on the mainland. It's a popular hiking destination, with several trails to choose from. The summit offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Petrified Forest

The Petrified Forest is a unique geological site located on the west coast of Lesbos. It consists of thousands of petrified trees that were once part of a lush forest. Today, they are a popular tourist attraction, and you can even see some of the trees up close.

Molyvos

Molyvos is a beautiful old town located on the north coast of Lesbos. It's known for its charming cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and Venetian castle. Molyvos is also a great place to enjoy fresh seafood and local wines.

Petra

Petra is another picturesque town located on the south coast of Lesbos. It's known for its traditional Greek architecture, its beautiful beaches, and its thermal springs. Petra is a great place to relax and unwind, and it's also a good base for exploring the surrounding area.

Tips for Visiting Anaxos

To ensure a memorable and hassle-free trip to Anaxos, consider the following tips:

When to visit: Anaxos is an ideal destination from April to October, offering pleasant weather conditions for outdoor activities. In July and August, temperatures can soar, so consider visiting during the shoulder months (May-June and September-October) to avoid the crowds and enjoy milder temperatures.
What to pack: Pack light, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather and comfortable walking shoes for exploring the village and its surroundings. Don't forget your swimsuit and sunscreen for those beach days, and a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
Currency and exchange rates: The official currency in Greece is the Euro. You can exchange your currency at banks, exchange bureaus, or ATMs. Remember to notify your bank before traveling to avoid any issues with your cards.
Local customs and etiquette: Respect local customs and etiquette to ensure a pleasant experience. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, greet people with a warm smile and "kalimera" (good morning) or "kalispera" (good evening), and remember to tip service staff appropriately.

Insider Tip: Rent a Car to Explore the Island

If you want to make the most of your time in Lesbos, consider renting a car to explore the island at your own pace. The roads are well-maintained, and traffic is generally light, making it easy to get around. Visit the island's many charming villages, such as Molyvos, Petra, and Plomari, each with its unique character and attractions. You can also use your car to explore the island's stunning natural beauty, such as the Petrified Forest, Mount Olympus, and the many secluded beaches.

The Village of Anaxos