Natural wonders: discover some of the most striking scenery in Greece
Lesser known than the neighbouring Cyclades and Ionian islands, the Northern Aegean islands of Chios, Lesvos, Limnos and Samos have spectacular scenery in abundance, from volcanic rock formations and olive groves to secluded, golden beaches.
In striking contrast to the beaches and waterfalls that draw visitors to the island, the volcanic landscape to the north of Limnos is otherworldly and desert-like. At Faraklo, near the village of Propouli, is a series of rock formations that were left behind after the Miocene volcanoes erupted millions of years ago. Appearing as giant, golden orbs protruding from the ground, the rocks are dubbed ‘bald heads’ by the locals and make for arresting photographs, contrasting poignantly against the cobalt-blue sea. Legend has it that the Greek god Hephaestus landed on Limnos after being thrown off Mount Olympus by Zeus.
Perhaps the most iconic beach on Limnos, Gomati's golden sands lie on the north of the island, a half-hour drive west from the Faraklo rocks. With big waves and strong winds, it's a good place for kitesurfing and windsurfing in spring or autumn. This long, sandy beach also has impressive dunes, giving it the feel of a desert at the end of the world. While on the island, be sure to also visit the waterfalls near the village of Kaspakas, or head to Keros beach for more watersports.
Chios is best known for its mastic trees, which produce a unique natural resin. These small precious pearls, also known as ‘tears of Chios,’ are used as chewing gum, as well as for aroma and flavour in pastries and other recipes. Visitors can participate in the harvest, which starts in mid-August and lasts for about a month. It includes a laborious production process, in which the soil is cleaned and levelled for the droplets to fall, and the trunk is cut in specific places to allow the resin to flow. While in town, take your learning up a notch by visiting the Chios Mastic Museum, and be sure to dine at a traditional taverna before you leave.
Chios is also famed for its bright red tulips. These wild flowers, known to the locals as lalades, are a spectacular feature of the island, appearing from late March and covering fields and meadows in a blanket of scarlet. After photographing them near the village of Tholopotami, turn your attention to the island’s unique array of orchids, or consider a guided nature walk.
Formed 20 million years ago after a volcanic eruption covered the north of Lesvos with lava and ash, the Petrified Forest is a fossilised ecosystem of hundreds of vertical and horizontal tree trunks. Located near the village of Sigri, the forest is a protected area covering 15,000 hectares and is on the list of UNESCO Global Geoparks. Gain a better understanding of the area at the Natural History Museum, before soaking up the scenery on the lava path hiking route around the island. While the US state of Arizona has a similar petrified forest, this is the only site where some of the trees are still upright.
With the highest number of olive trees per capita in the world, Lesvos, Greece’s third-largest island, is the place to discover abundant olive groves and, of course, taste their produce. Lesvos has some 11 million olive trees, and its olive oil olive production is key to the local economy. For the full tasting experience, visit a local taverna or ouzeri (a type of traditional tavern that specialises in meze served alongside ouzo) and tuck into dishes such as anchovies marinated in olive oil or scallops drizzled with oil.
A spectacular spot for unspoilt nature and widereaching views, Samos is a land of contrasts, with beaches sandwiched between the mountains of Kerkis and Ambelos. Travellers wishing to climb Mount Kerkis can take a guided hike from Votsalakia in Marathocampos to its 4,700ft peak, the second-highest peak in the East Aegean. Along the way, look out for birds of prey and the 1,400 species of rare plants that are endemic to the island. For the brave, Mount Kerkis acts as a popular spot for trail running.
Widely considered the best beach in Samos, Seitani is a beautiful spot on the north coast, with white sand and azure waters. As it's difficult to access, the beach tends to be uncrowded and peaceful, but there are no facilities, so make sure to bring supplies. Seitani is an hour’s hike from Potami beach, and it’s entirely worth the effort to get there. While on Samos, be sure to wander the old settlements and visit the 16th-century Sarakini Tower, as well as the impressive Temple of Hera.
Getting to the Northern Aegean islands from the UK is nice and straightforward. To reach Samos and its snow-white mountain churches, it's possible to take a direct flight from the UK throughout the summer. Alternatively, flights connect the various major and minor airports with Chios and Lesvos via Athens, and there are also ferry options from Piraeus (Athens' chief sea port). Visit between June and September for hot, dry weather, or outside of these peak summer months for a quieter and cooler experience.
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