Slow Travel in Greece

Milies Mytilene village Greece

SLOW TRAVEL DESTINATION

MILIES SETTLEMENT

Plomari, Mytilene, Aegean ilands

Three inhabitants and a hill farm house

Milies is a mountainous settlement in Plomari region, on Lesvos island. Four hundred meters above sea level, Milies maintains its characteristic traditional architecture, revealing its former glory. 

In the early 1920s, Milies was ranked among the most populated mountainous villages of the municipality of Gera. 

According to the oral history, Milies is named after the huge millstones found in the area, used for grinding grains. ‘’Mylos’’ literally means mill and at the entry of Milies lays a 1,5-meter millstone, as a remembrance  of the old oil mill of the settlement.

Milies is surrounded by vineyards and olive trees, with wine and olive production having been the main activity of its residents in the past. Interestingly, during the winter, only three inhabitants remain in Milies. The Association for the Preservation of Abandoned Villages is based here, working collectively to protect the cultural identity and traditional architecture of the Plomari area.
farm horses little child greece
For an unforgettable eco-friendly farm stay in Milies, make sure to check out Toumba Farm. Nestled in the serene hills, this family-friendly retreat offers a perfect blend of nature and sustainability. With plenty of outdoor activities, it’s ideal for those seeking a holistic, slow-travel experience.
Hiking & biking in Milies

Cycling in Milies

THE ROUTES

Hiking & Mountain biking trails

Man-made and natural paths surround Milies, offering numerous hiking and mountain biking opportunities. Some of the most popular trails starting from Milies include:

Milies - Toumba - Arodafne - Kastelos - Toumba - Milies

Milies - Paleomylos - Kolymvatera - Toumba - Milies This 5.8km circular route links Milies with the traditional settlements of Paleomylos and Kolymvatera. Expect a beautiful walk through pine forests, fruit trees, natural springs and chapels. Walking time: Approximately 2.5 hours.

Milies - Toumba - Arodafne - Kastelos - Toumba - Milies

This 5km circular walk starts in Milies and climbs to Toumba Eco Farm, passing through the historic settlements of Arodafne and Kastelos. The route offers a two-hour walk on cobbled paths, surrounded by olive groves and oak trees, with the possibility of seeing Komper's orchids, one of the rarest and most beautiful orchid species.

UNDISCOVERED GREECE

HOW TO REACH MILIES

Milies is located 30 km from Mytilene, the capital of Lesvos island, and is easily accessible by bus or car within a 50-minute drive.

The “Odysseas Elytis” international airport is just 8 km outside Mytilene, and a 15-minute bus ride will take you to the capital.

Alternatively, you can reach Milies via rural roads from Gera or the main Mytilene – Plomari road, and by the footpath starting from Trygonas. Trygonas is accessible by public transport.

For bus schedules, check here: Mytilene City buses KTEL Lesvos.

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