Overlooking the Aegean Sea, Skala Eressou is a lively village on the south-west coast of Lesbos. It is famed as the birthplace of Sappho, who was renowned for her lyric poetry and dubbed the “Tenth Muse”. Nestled just behind Skala Eressou’s dark sand beach is the ancient site of Eressos.
Stretching the length of the village is Paralia Skala Eresou, a volcanic beach with umbrellas and sun loungers for rent. Backing the sand are local Greek tavernas where you can dine throughout the day, including Soulatso, Aigaio and the Blue Sardine.
History buffs can visit the Archaeological Collection of Eressos, which showcases findings from the ancient city of Eresos. It occupies a stone building with a spacious courtyard where sarcophagi, pedestals and inscriptions are exhibited alongside Ionic capitals, Roman mosaics and Hellenistic altars. Located beside the museum is the ancient site, which encompasses the remains of a castle and a Roman bath.
Getting there
Skala Eressou is around 1.5 hours’ drive from Mitilini and Mitilini Airport Odysseas Elytis, which has seasonal flights to destinations across Europe. Renting a car is the most convenient way of getting to Skala Eressou and the village is small enough to explore on foot.