General information about the island of Limnos
Strengths:
Points of interest, connections.
Average:
Sea and beaches, excursions, prices, crowding, nightlife, fairly suitable for families with children.
Weaknesses:
-
- Capital: Myrina
- Population: 18000
- Area: 476 km²
- Port: Myrina
- Airport: yes
- Public transportation: yes
- Car and motorcycle rental: yes
- Campsites: yes
Limnos (from Greek Λήμνος), also known as Lemno, is a Greek island located in the northern Aegean Sea, halfway between the Chalkidiki Peninsula and Asia Minor. It is only 24 nautical miles from the Dardanelles Strait and for this reason, it serves as a military base. It can be reached both by sea and by air (Limnos International Airport). The island is 186 nautical miles from Piraeus.
Like Astipalea, Limnos has the shape of a butterfly with two deep bays dividing it into two parts, and it has an area of 476 km² with about 18,000 inhabitants. The large bay to the south forms the natural harbor of Mudros.
The island, of volcanic origin, is fertile but with hilly terrains that are not particularly rich in vegetation: wheat, excellent red wine, oil, cotton, fruit, and the inevitable honey are produced. The highest point reaches 430 meters above sea level (Mount Vigla). Its coasts offer beautiful beaches, spectacular cliffs, and secluded coves.
Among its attractions, besides the contrasts of its landscape, is definitely the tranquility it offers. The northwestern coast is high and without beaches, while to the east there are beautiful beaches among the dunes but with a sea exposed to the winds, while the southern coast is low and sheltered. The sea around Limnos is very rich in fish because the island is at the center of large seasonal fish migrations. The inhabitants of the island are therefore largely fishermen.
The capital is Myrina, with a cool and dry climate, where the main port is also located. The island, although very charming, is not particularly touristy and is mostly frequented by Greeks, perhaps due to the presence of many military personnel.
According to mythology, Limnos was the residence of the god Vulcan who married the beautiful Aphrodite and taught the inhabitants of the island to forge bronze.
The road network, not always easy to navigate, connects all the main villages and winds through the island's interior rather than along the sea. Some areas of the island, however, are not accessible as they are military zones. There are both bus and taxi services. Car and scooter rentals are available on the island.
