The charming fishing harbour of Molyvos, carpets of flowers, woodpeckers, olive groves. 

From the delightful fishing harbour of Molyvos we will explore the lovely island of Lesvos, one of the largest in the Aegean. Our rooms at the very welcoming Seahorse Hotel, overlook the harbour and not far from the attractive lanes that wind up towards the castle above the town. The island is becoming famous for its wildlife and we have timed this holiday to catch the best of the spring flowers and birdlife, and enjoy pleasant temperatures and quiet walks before the majority of tourists arrive.

On three days we take coach excursions, visiting the rolling hills and pastures of the east, the lagoons and reed beds around Skala Kalloni, and the pine woods and meadows of the southern mountains. The wetland near Kalloni is excellent for several species of heron, ibises and storks. On the other days we will walk in beautiful olive groves and meadows looking, not only for the flowers but also, for woodpeckers, bee-eaters, buntings, warblers and many other birds. Several orchid species should be seen including local specialities such as Ophrys lesbis, Ophrys homeri and Ophrys reinholdii. Other flowers include ornithogalums, anemones, cornflowers and the beautiful, pale yellow Iris ochroleuca. Cistus, lavender and other colourful shrubs grow in profusion.

Dragonflies, butterflies, frogs and lizards are common and we hope to see spur-thighed tortoise, Testudo graeca, and Balkan terrapin, Mauremys rivulata. Lesvos has an interesting geology seen when visiting the remarkable petrified forest and an excellent geological museum. Only a few miles from Turkey, the local history is fascinating and we include time to visit nearby cultural sites.

Price: £1295. SRS £90

Leaders: Chris Donnelly and Henry Stanier

Flights may be limited for this holiday, which filled up very quickly in 2010. If you were interested in joining us, please get in touch as soon as possible to reserve your place.