Mithymna, or Molyvos as it is also called, in the north of the island of Lesbos is a very special and beautiful town and the first view of it is overwhelming. The town has about 1500 inhabitants and is situated 53 kilometers north of the capital Mitilini. Molyvos is situated on a small mountain topped by a dramatic medieval castle from the Byzantine period. Under the rule of Genua it was later extended and renovated. The original castle which this one replaced, was conquered by none other then Achilles during the Trojan war.

There are still ancient ruins scattered around the town including impressive walls and a few giant holes where archaeologists have begun their slow work. The town of Molyvos itself is built against a steep hill and consists of stone houses with red tiled roofs, and shops which surround the castle and follow the coast to one of the most beautiful harbors in Greece. Molyvos attracts more tourists than anywhere else on the island, but it's still relatively quiet compared to certain other destinations in the Cyclades, Crete or Rhodes. The busy and cozy port of Molyvos is its most appealing feature, with sailboats and fishingboats in all shapes, sizes and colours.

The main street of Molyvos that goes up the hill to the castle is made of cobbled stones and shaded with vines. It will lead you to the museums, shops, supermarkets, restaurants and some galleries before you reach the castle of Molyvos.

In the heart of Molyvos you can find a nice pebble beach, that received an EU Blue Flag, and there are several other great beaches nearby, like Eftalou Beach (3km), Psiriara Beach, a long sandbeach next to the Molyvos main beach (with an option for naturists at the end of the beach), and Petra Beach (5km). At the end of the (actually quite large) beach of Molyvos there is also a part which is used by the naturists.

In Archaic times (750 - 480 BC) Molyvos already was an important militairy and trade center with colonies on the coast of Minor Asia. During the Peleponnesian Wars Molyvos was the only town that chose the side of Athens and it was also the only town on the island of Lesbos that was spared by the Athenians when they took their revenge. During Byzantine times (312 - 1355) the town was under constant threat of pirates. The castle of Molyvos was sufficient protection for the inhabitants, so they did not have to move more inland like many of the people that lived in other cities. The Genuese family of Gattelusi ruled over the town from 1355 to 1462 and the added to the castle and made it larger and stronger. The castle is open for visitors between 8.30 and 15.00 and the admittance is not free. There are many walls and passages, giving the castle the feeling of a labyrinth. From the castle there are overwhelming views over the Bay of Petra, the north east coast all the way to Skala Sikamineas and to Turkey. The small Archeological Museum which is situated in the Town Hall, with the same opening hours as the castle has a collection of pots and urns (2000 years old, found in the harbour), statues, coins, oil lamps and pictures. The "star" of the museum is a 2500 year old statue of Aphrodite with Eros at her feet.

The Captains Table restaurant in the harbour of Molyvos is unreputedly one of the best restaurants on Lesbos island. It is owned and run by Melinda and her husband Theo. Melinda, Australian by birth but a native of Greece for most of her life, prepares food with her husband in the morning, and then along with a great team of charming helpers, looks after the clientele in the evening, while Theo heads up the competent kitchen crew. The restaurant is located a metre from many small colourful fishing boats bobbing up and down in the water. And, no matter how hot the day, in the evening there is always a cool sea breeze. The Captains Table offers a wide range of excellent fresh fish dishes. Melindas father (The Captain) is a fisherman who runs a 25 metre trawler and a caique. For the specialist, who likes to sample a little of everything try the Captains Platter (for one or two persons). Melinda and Theo also offer other fare, and their evening specials could feature Thai cuisine, satays, curries, and Italian dishes. My personal favorites (besides the fish): fava, mushrooms in garlic and wine sauce, tzaziki. The housewine is good! On the picture: Jason and Rebecca Kelly from Australia.

Verdict: recommended, 8.5 out of 10

The Nassos Guest House is situated on the beautiful island of Lesvos. As third largest islands of all the Greek islands, Lesvos offers much scope for exploration and is very welcoming and friendly to visitors. The Nassos Guest House is situated in the middle of picturesque Molivos (Mythimna) village, half way down from the castle (on top of the hills) and offers stunning views across the village rooftops and across the bay towards the sea. This is a good option for people that would like to stay in a small scaled place instead of one of the bigger hotels in Molyvos. The house was built around 1900 and the first owner was a Turkish doctor. In the sixties it was established as the first Guest House serving the northern part of the island. Since then many enduring friendships have begun at the Nassos Guest House.

The house is not only perfect for individuals or couples but, can also cater for larger families or groups. We can take exclusively bookings for up to eighteen people. The Guest House offers eight rooms in total, two of which are spacious enough to accommodate three people comfortably. Nassos Guesthouse is open all year around.

Tel +30 6942046279 Fax +302253071641 - Send an e-mail to Nassos Guesthouse

Situated close to Mithymna's market, this great-value pension is named after the lover of famous Greek writer Stratis Myrivilis and offers magnificent panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. The Schoolmistress with the Golden Eyes is a family-run pension, in the heart of Mithymna, in Lesvos Island. It shares its name with the title of Stratis Myrivilis popular book and was once the home of its main character, Myrivilis lover Stella. Its location at the top end of Mithymna's cobbled street allows you to enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, Molivos Bay and the port from your balcony. You are also close to Mithymna's vibrant market. Spend the day exploring the charming cobbled streets and visiting the local shops and taverns. In the evening, head back to The School Mistress with the Golden Eyes and relax with a drink on your balcony and enjoy your stunning scenery.

Check availabilities and prices & book Pension The Schoolmistress with the Golden Eyes - click here.

For all hotels, apartements and studios in Molyvos or Mithimna - click here.