Limnos Island: The mysterious island of the North Aegean

The evening sun bathes the landscape of Limnos Island into a warm light. Golden ears of corn sway in the light summer wind, gentle hills shimmer in the background. A mysterious atmosphere is in the air and you have the feeling that this sleepy Greek island will still hold many a treasure.

»The island of Limnos holds unique natural treasures and historical relics that are waiting to be discovered.«

Limnos (also called Lemnos) in the northern Aegean Sea is still in a deep sleep today. Once upon a time there was a mighty volcano in the middle of it, in which Hephaestus, the god of fire and the art of blacksmithing. The mythical traces have fallen silent, but many a secret has not yet been revealed.

For a week we explored the island, discovered many beautiful corners and were surprised in the end why this island is so much in the shadow of the other Greek islands. Here are our 12 highlights of Limnos:

Who is a trip to Limnos suitable for?

Visible witnesses of former volcanic activity are the fertile valleys of the island. Green vineyards alternate with wheat fields and vegetable plantations. In the northwest, you will find yourself in a desert-like landscape. Ruins of ancient sites in the east give a vague idea of the importance of Limno in pre-Christian times.

Between mid-July and early September, the island really comes alive and tourists fill the numerous beaches. All those who are outside the “limnic summer”, you have Limnos almost to yourself, even if one or the other restaurant remains closed.

#1 Walking tour of Myrina

The mighty Castle of Myrina immediately attracts everyone’s attention, whether you reach the island’s capital by land or sea. The Kastro is impressively enthroned on a rocky outcrop in the sea and is one of the largest fortifications in the Aegean. It is the landmark of Limnos and offers a breathtaking photo opportunity both during the day and at night.

The climb to the ruins of the fortress is worthwhile just because of the magnificent panoramas by Myrina. On a clear day, you can even see the holy mountain of the monastic republic in the northwest. Athos see.

The first buildings on the rock date back to the 3rd millennium BC. The huge Cyclopean walls you can still see today when you climb up to the castle. After that, the complex was constantly expanded by changing owners, such as Greeks, Byzantines and Venetians.

Admission to the castle is free of charge, but at your own risk as the walls are not secured. With a bit of luck, you will even see some of the fallow deer graze on the rock. They were a gift from Rhodes a long time ago and still live here today.

Cobbled streets and mansions

The capital of the island has been able to retain its cozy charm to this day. No wonder, with not even 6,000 inhabitants Myrina is rather contemplative. Take your time exploring the city on foot, with its cobbled streets and old mansions.

Among other things, the former Turkish district with its Limanaki. The small port of Myrina is a real postcard motif. Fishing boats sail idyllically in the pier and the local taverns bring freshly caught food to the table in the evening.

From Limanaki, you walk along the lively Marktgasse to the beautiful villa district Romeikos Gialos. Here you will find many cute cafes and restaurants. We dined particularly deliciously at the Grammophono.

The small restaurant is located somewhat inconspicuously on the Eleftheriou Square. The feta in sesame crust and the chicken sticks were a treat and we had a very nice chat with the boss and his employee. The prices were unbeatable and the location pleasant a bit away from the hustle and bustle.

If you continue along the coastal road, you will pass the city beaches of Myrina. Manos Beach is perfect for a relaxing afternoon at the beach. The beach tavern of the same name on site serves tasty dishes at fair prices. The ambience is very nice and the view from the beach to the Kastro is just fantastic.

#2 The Little Sahara of Limnos

A desert on a Greek island! The first time you’re in front of the “Pachies Ammoudies” you will hardly believe your eyes. The “Sahara of Limnos” is the highlight of the island.

In the far northwest near Katalakko you will reach this unique Dunes. In the hinterland of Gomati Bay there is a valley depression between numerous hills. The finest sand from the sea has accumulated here over millions of years. The dunes regularly change their shape and height due to wind and weather.

The atmosphere is particularly magical in the evening, when the Sahara of Limnos is bathed in warm light and the sand shimmers reddish. Take your time to walk over the dunes and soak up this unique atmosphere. What a magical moment!

The approach to the viewpoint in front of the dunes is only possible with an off-road vehicle, as the gravel road is in very poor condition. With a small car, you can only drive part of the route and have to cover the last kilometer on foot.

#3 The volcanic rocks of Falakro

The island of Limnos is of volcanic origin and in some places the activity of the fire-breathing giants has left spectacular traces. Just like the wondrous rock formations of cooled lava covering parts of the north coast of Limnos.

A gravel road leads from Propouli to this special sight of Limnos. You can park your car at an abandoned hut and follow the signpost to the Cape Falakro follow. A short time later, you are standing in a bizarre landscape that was shaped by nature millions of years ago.

The reddish volcanic rock Falakro are best captured in warm light in the evening or in the morning. There is also a narrow stretch of beach where you can cool off in the summer.

The approach to Falakro is via a bumpy gravel road. Our small car has mastered the journey. With an off-road vehicle, however, it is more relaxed to drive. Sturdy shoes are a good idea for exploring the rock formations.

#4 Hike to Panagia Kakaviotissa

An entertaining hike leads to one of the most important pilgrimage sites on the island. In a natural cave of the Kakavos Mountains lies the small chapel Kakaviotissa. The scenery is breathtaking and a visit to the cave church is a real highlight on Limnos.

The sanctuary was founded in 1416 and served as a kind of hermitage and refuge for monks. The chapel was built in such a way that it was not visible from the sea and served as protection against attackers. Especially nice is a visit in the late afternoon. Then the sunlight illuminates the opening of the cave and the chapel is beautifully illuminated.

You can reach the chapel from Myrina via Paradisou Street in the south. Before the village of Plati, turn left and follow the signs to the Kakaviotissa Cave Church follow. A well-navigable gravel road leads to a parking lot with a shelter where you can park your car.

From here it goes up a mountain via steps. The hike is very entertaining at two kilometers and only takes about 30 – 40 minutes. The path through the rock formations alone is a real experience! The route is marked by trail markings and cannot be missed.

#5 Kontias and the windmills of Limnos

On Limnos you will find nearly 40 villages with architecture typical of the island, which has been able to retain its original character to this day. Unlike other islands, the villages of Limnos are not spruced up for tourists. The village life is authentic and you will get an insight into the traditional way of life of the inhabitants.

We especially liked Kontias in the south of the island. The village enchants with its old stone houses and narrow streets. On a walk through the village, you will pass quaint kafenia and taverns. Colourful house facades offer beautiful photo motifs. Above the village stand restored windmills, which now houses a hotel and café.

Before Kontias, it is worthwhile for photo enthusiasts to take a detour to the Chapel of Agios Nikolaos. The white church is located on a small offshore island, which is only connected to the mainland by a headland. The gravel road to the chapel branches off at Pedino and you follow the signs to the old Russian cemetery. Shortly after Santa Barbara Beach, turn left, then the church is visible from afar.

#6 Ascent to the Profitis Ilias

From almost all directions you can see the small white chapel enthroned on the summit of the Profitis Iliad. The hike to 356 meters above the sea is entertaining, as the mountains on Limnos only reach a maximum height of 430 meters. On the other hand, a unique panorama of the entire island awaits you here.

The hike starts near Therma. Unfortunately, the beautiful thermal facility is no longer in operation and is increasingly falling into disrepair. In front of the building, a road branches off to the right. Follow the gravel road to a junction. On the way you will come across a goat gate, which you can open and then close again. You can park your car at a junction and follow the left path on foot.

From here it is only 1.3 kilometers to the summit and about 20 minutes ascent. The last part leads up over rocks, so sturdy shoes are recommended. A white marker shows you the way to the summit.

Below the chapel there is a small fairground and two houses that are used for celebrations. From the Profitis Ilias you can now let your gaze wander over the wide plains of Limnos. In the morning you have a great panorama to the west to Myrina. In good visibility you can even see the holy Mount Athos on the horizon. In the afternoon, the light is perfect for a view towards the east coast.

#7 The ancient treasures of Limnos

The island of Limnos is a real archaeological treasure chest. Even for those who don’t like history, a day trip to the historical highlights in the northeast is worthwhile. Excavations are still taking place today and new finds are constantly coming to light. The ancient sites raise many questions even for laymen and you can’t get rid of the feeling that there are even more secrets hidden on the island.

The ancient city of Hephaestia

Near the village of Kontopouli lies the ancient site of Hephaistia (also Ifestia). It was founded around 1,000 BC by the Pelasgians and was one of the most powerful cities in ancient Limnos.

Hephaestia was strategically located on one of the major trade routes of the Aegean Sea. Today, all that remains of the former metropolis and religious site are ruins and foundation walls of former houses, baths, temples and palaces.

Particularly well preserved is the ancient Theatre of Hephaesta, which is impressively located on a slope above the peninsula. It is estimated that it was built in the 5th century BC and has been steadily expanded. From the top rows of seats you have fantastic views of the sea and coastal plain.

The approach to the theatre is via a gravel road, which is not in the best condition. An off-road vehicle is therefore recommended.

• Opening hours Hephaistia: 8:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. | Admission: 2 euros

The Mystery of the Kabirs

An Amazon cult on a Greek island? Limnos always has surprises in store! The Kabir Sanctuary is located north of Hephaistia directly on the sea. The current site consists of two terraces on which remains of temples can be seen. Excavations are still taking place on the mysterious site, because not all the mysteries surrounding the Kabirs have been revealed.

It is known that the Kabirs must have been deities. They were used by the islanders in early Christian times as Goddesses of Fertility and of life. Thus, ritual acts took place exclusively at night.

Another myth says that once the women of Limnos killed all the men of the island and as a kind of Amazon tribe ruled the island. When the population declined and no more offspring could be conceived, the women brought the Argonauts around the hero Jason to the island.

The strong sailors were received in the Kabir sanctuary by the Limnic women. Thereupon extended lovemaking took place for several days in the pleasure temple of the Kabirs and the offspring for the island was thus secured, according to Greek mythology.

• Opening hours Kabiren: 08:30 – 15:00, closed on Tuesdays, admission: 2 Euro

The Cave of Philoctetes

Directly at the Kabir sanctuary, a path leads down to the rugged coast. There are two entrances to a sea cave. On the left side, you can enter through a narrow gap. The water is about knee-deep and you can wade up to a small stone beach inside the cave.

The entrance on the right leads into the cave via the sea path. Take the opportunity to refresh yourself a little and swim into the grotto. The reflections inside are beautiful and also a great photo motif.

Greek mythology says that in the cave of the Hero Philoctetes is said to have lived for nine years. During this time, he has cured himself of a snake bite and prepared for the conquest of Troy.

#8 Salt lakes and surfer’s paradise in the east

The east is a paradise for windsurfers and kiters due to its strong winds. Even from afar, the water of the kilometer-long sandy beaches of Aliki and Keros turquoise blue. The two bays are home to everything a water sports enthusiast’s heart desires.

Beginners and professionals cavort at the surf stations. Beach bars provide cool drinks and a relaxed atmosphere. Directly behind it is a luxury glamping resort, for those who have the necessary change. Behind the endless beaches stretch white sand dunes to the interior.

But also nature lovers and hobby ornithologists get their money’s worth in the east of Limnos. The salt lakes of the island are an important protected area. They are a refuge and source of food for migratory birds, which have their breeding grounds here. There are observation towers for bird lovers at all three lakes. About 130 bird species have been sighted, including endangered species.

In winter, the salt lakes of Limnos carry a lot of water and are enriched with nutrients. These are needed by the migratory birds in spring, because they raise their young in the lagoons. You will be able to see Flamingos at that time. In summer, the lakes have dried up and are used by the locals for salt production.

Particularly impressive due to its milky color is the Asprolimni Salt Lake just behind Aliki Beach. Above is the Limni Alyki, the largest salt lake on the island, which usually carries some water until summer.

Behind Keros Beach lies the salt lake Chortarolimni. Its green color gives the lake its name, because “chorta” means “green” in Greek. The best way to reach the salt lakes is on foot or by off-road vehicle. The approach is from the village of Kalliopi.

#9 The oldest city in Europe

The Stone Age Poliochni Settlement is dated back to the 4th to 5th millennium BC. Due to its size at the time with over 1,000 inhabitants, it is considered the oldest city in Europe. The complex was built on a hill above the sea and is located in the east of the island of Limnos.

It is geographically opposite the former City of Troy, whose excavation site is now located on the Turkish mainland. At that time, Poliochni was an important strategic transshipment point on the route to Asia Minor.

Unfortunately, only one of Europe’s oldest cities remains today ruins and house foundations remaining. A small museum directly at the entrance explains the components of the facility. In addition, numerous finds, such as clay vessels and objects made of metal, are on display. You can see more finds in the archaeological museum of Myrina.

The complex was built and expanded in several eras. You can find detailed information about this on information boards at the entrance. There are no other information boards on the excavation site itself. Only individual house ruins were labeled. One of the most recent finds is the Bouleuterion, a large rectangular building with several rows of seats. It is assumed that this is the oldest parliament in the world.

We recommend Poliochni in the morning as it can get unbearably hot in the midday heat. Unfortunately, the entire excavation site offers no shade.

• Opening hours Poliochni: 08:30 – 16:00, closed on Tuesdays | Admission: 2 euros

Lunch break at the Red Rock Bar

Right next to the excavation site begins Kokkinovrachos beach. Coming from Poliochni, the road goes down to the sea on the left. Here you can join the Red Rock Beach Bar make a short stopover.

There will be cool drinks and delicious small snacks. Perfect to relax a bit after the history lesson. The sandy beach with its red rocks invites you to swim. On site you can use umbrellas and sunbeds. At our time in June, the kilometer-long beach section was deserted.

#10 Endless beaches on Limnos

The island of Limnos has a real luxury problem, it simply has too many beaches. So it is almost impossible to visit all the beaches of Limnos in a short time. The coastline of the small island consists almost entirely of beaches and you are literally spoilt for choice.

The Fanaraki Beaches south of Moudros in the east of the island. Both offer a beautiful sandy beach and turquoise blue clear water. The entrance, especially at the large Fanaraki beach (Megalo Fanaraki), is very shallow and is therefore perfect for children. There is a taverna on site, but it is only open in the height of summer (July/ August).

From the parking lot of Megalo Fanaraki, a gravel road leads to a rocky plateau on the left. From here, a small path takes you to a stretch of coastline with bizarre rock formations made of colorful limestone. Until June 2022, the seal cave Spilia tis Fokias, which unfortunately collapsed. Nevertheless, the impressive coastal formations of Cape Aspro Kavos are worth a detour.

The two bays behind the ancient city of Hephaistia are also particularly beautiful. The best way to get here is with an off-road vehicle via a dirt road. The two sandy beaches are clean and slope gently into the sea. Outside of high season, we had the back bay all to ourselves.

Unfortunately, some beaches on Limnos were included in our visit with seagrass and plastic waste encumbered. It remains to be hoped that something will be done in midsummer for the care and preservation of the beautiful beaches. Since there are neither trash cans nor sanitary facilities on many beaches, every vacationer should take his garbage and paper with him and dispose of it in the garbage cans of the villages.

#11 Culinary highlights of the island

Thanks to the volcanic soils, Limnos has fertile plains where intensive agriculture is practiced. From cereals and grapes many delicacies are conjured up and so gourmets get their money’s worth.

The ancient wheat Mavragani, which is still grown on the island. This fine grain is used to make delicious baked goods and pasta. Flomari pasta is the most famous product. Pure only with olive oil or with butter-soft chicken, they taste simply heavenly.

Also perfect for a snack is the bread braid with feta. You can buy this at the Aphrodite supermarket in the village of Kontopoulo, among other places.

Fine wines of Limnos

Limnos is known for its exclusive wines, which are primarily obtained from the Muscat varieties of Alexandria and the Kalampaka grape. Viticulture on the island has a long tradition. The local winemakers produce first-class limnic wines that are exported all over the world. You can taste the fine wines in the island’s wineries.

We were visiting during our stay at the Limnos Organic Wines Winery. The family produces its wines organically and thus sustainably for people and the environment. There are about 15 different wines from dry to sweet. We found the varieties Ilios & Thalassa and the sparkling wine Moscato Rosé particularly tasty.

The winery is open daily and has a wine tasting is free of charge. The prices for a bottle of wine are between 5 and 15 euros. Unfortunately, the winery is not so easy to find, as the location is not correctly maintained on Google Maps. It is best to keep northeast from Myrina towards the stadium. Directly a few meters behind it is the winery.

The best tsipouro on the island

A special souvenir from Limnos is also fine pomace schnapps. This is stored in oak barrels for several months and competes with many a single malt whisky. Dear Paris produces in his small Leristis Distillery in the village of Kontopouli Tsipouro with and without anise from local grapes.

Here everything is still in traditional processes made. The whole family helps with the harvest and sales. You can taste his high-proof wines on site. Paris will open its quaint distillery daily from June and sells local honey and other products from the island in addition to its own spirits.

#12 The mystery of “Limnia Gi”

For thousands of years, the famous healing earth of Limnos a valued remedy. The “Limnia Gi” or “Terra Lemnia” was already pressed into tablet form in ancient times and was considered the oldest medical device in the world.

It is intended to be any wounds, snake bites, against stomach and intestinal complaints. Limnia Gi has even been prescribed against the plague. The hero Philoctetes is also said to have cured his snake bite with the help of limnic healing earth.

From the Antiquity into the 20th century the healing earth was mined on the edge of the Mosychlos volcano on Limnos. It was a kind of reddish soft mass that was transported to daylight via a tunnel. However, the exact location of the Limnia Gi has been forgotten in modern times.

Today, the entrance to the tunnel is buried and the surrounding area is overgrown with grasses. According to locals, there is a lack of financial resources to locate the exact location of the find and to make the valuable healing earth usable again. It’s hard to believe that you former miracle cure is hardly paid attention to in this day and age.

You can visit the area where the healing earth was once extracted. A few meters behind the village of Kotsinas a dirt road goes right at a church. A sign with the inscription “Terra Lemnia” will show you the way to a well. Behind it lies the barely visible former tunnels, inside of which the miraculous Limni Gi was mined.

Limnos is and remains mysterious

Even though the mysterious Limnia Gi no longer has any significance for the island of Limnos, people still tell each other in the rustic fishing village of Kotsinas, near the former mining tunnel, many a wondrous story about the secrets hidden deep under the island.

In the village, for example, there is a mysterious tunnel more than 40 meters deep below the church of Zoodochos Pigi, near the Maroula monument. Brave Limnos holidaymakers dare the cramped descent into the depths. Once at the bottom, a fountain with holy spring water awaits them.

If you speak Greek, you can philosophize about the secrets of Lemnos with the locals in Kotsinas until late at night with freshly caught fish and plenty of tsipouro. A visit to the place is worthwhile just because of the magnificent sunset on the small waterfront.

More Limnos Travel Tips & Info

Our restaurant recommendations on Limnos

We have especially tasty in the Tavern Man-Tella in the mountain village of Sardis. The rustic restaurant in the middle of the village is a family business and invites you to linger. In the kitchen, mom is still behind the stove and conjures up delicious dishes.

Especially the typical island dish Flomari noodles with rooster is a real treat! The food is homemade and the focus is on local products. In the evening, the restaurant was still well filled, then the atmosphere was particularly exuberant with a glass of wine.

Our hotel tips for Limnos

Tourism on Limnos is still very restrained. You will look in vain for large hotel complexes and all-inclusive holidays here. The island is a real insider tip and a popular holiday destination for individualists. Nevertheless, there are now some solid hotels and tasteful holiday apartments on Limnos. Our recommendations are (links to Booking.com*):

• Lithoessa Luxury Apartments
• Under the Windmills
• Thealassa
• Zeus & Emmanuil Luxury Houses

➲ To all hotels of the island*

→ About Booking.com* you will find many accommodation onLimnos Display on a map:

Here we spent the night on Limnos

Varos Village Hotel, Varos

The Varos Village Hotel is centrally located in the interior of the island in the village of Varos. The well-kept complex offers everything a holidaymaker’s heart desires. You can cool off in the large pool and have a drink on the terrace overlooking the coastal plain. Our accommodation was located in the middle of the village in a former manor house, which has been extensively restored. The rooms are tastefully decorated in a traditional style.

The surroundings are wonderfully quiet and we felt comfortable from the first minute in this village idyll. The hotel complex above the village is only an eight-minute walk away. The owner Stelios and his friendly team welcome every guest. The extensive breakfast also left nothing to be desired. Varos Village Hotel is a perfect starting point to explore the whole of Lemnos by rental car.

➲ Book Varos Village*

Is it worth renting a car for Limnos?

Limnos itself lacks public transport. Therefore, we advise you to rent a car. Since many roads to important sights have not yet been paved, it is worth taking an off-road vehicle on Limnos, such as a Suzuki Jimny. You can book your rental car für Limnos on Discover Cars*:

➲ Book your rental car at Discover Cars*

How to get to the island of Limnos

The island of Limnos has an airport. Since 2022, there have been direct flights from Austria. You can reach Limnos by stopover over in Thessaloniki. From here, a small plane from Olympic Air, Skyexpress or Astra takes you to the island in about an hour. You can use the Skyscanner* portal to display suitable flights:

➲ To cheap flights to Thessaloniki*

Alternatively, you can use a direct flight to Kavala from Munich, Düsseldorf and Frankfurt, among others. The northern Greek port city offers direct ferry connections to Limnos. From Kavala to Limnos, the ferry crossing takes about 3.5 hours.

➲ To cheap flights to Kavala*

Currently, several ferries per week head for the island of Limnos, with at least one ferry leaving the port of Kavala for Lemnos every day. On the Ferryhopper* portal you can find suitable ferries and check prices:

➲ To the ferry booking with Ferryhopper*

→ More travel reports about the North Aegean islands can be found here: North Aegean

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