Skala Kallonis - Kalloni

Skala Kallonis (or Kalloni) lies at the very heart of Lesbos and has played an important role in the life of Lesbos for centuries as demonstrated by its ancient monastries.

Kalloni is perfect base from which to explore Lesbos because of its location. The capital, Mitilini (Mytilene) is no more than an hour away by car and you are within similar striking distance of the petrified forest of Sequoia trees and the resort town of Molivos on the northern coast of Lesbos.

The word "skala" actually means beach in Greek, underlying the fact that as well as being at the centre of an island you are also on the coast. This is made possible by the Bay of Kalloni, a huge gulf of shallow, warm water that laps onto Kalloni's golden beach.

Skala Kallonis is actually a working fishing port and is famous for its sardines. A festival to celebrate this fact takes place at the end of July every year with freshly grilled sardines on offer to locals and visitors alike.

The surrounding area is also abundantly fertile thanks to six rivers running through the area and numerous underground springs and so this is where you will find many of the island's vineyards too.

A great way to explore the area surrounding Kalloni is on bike because the pace of life is slow and the countryside flat. Bikes can be hired throughout the year so no excuses!

The heart and soul of Kalloni is not surprisingly the harbour and the beach. Tamarind trees provide welcome shade in the midday sun, but of course you can hire sunbeds and umbrellas if you prefer to be that little bit closer to the water's edge. And if you want to be in the water, watersports are available throughout the summer season.

Greek tavernas offer both food and drink throughout the day and evening, and a few bars remain open later into the night should you require a nightcap.

The tourist season usually starts in the spring with the arrival of birdwatchers. The nearby salt lakes are a stopping off point for many different migratory birds and are perfect for those who know their Bee-eater from their Flycatcher.

The summer is a time of festivals in Kalloni with the Panigyri of Saint Trinity holding centre stage for three days of eating, drinking and horse racing from the 7th of July.

And at any time of year you can visit the numerous archaeological sites nearby. Of particular interest are the monastery at Limonas and the remains of an ancient temple dedicated to Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty, at nearby Mesa.