Sykamia
Sykamia is the hilltop village above Skala Sykamias — the birthplace of Stratis Myrivilis (1892–1969), whose novel The Mermaid Madonna set the harbour below it permanently in Greek literature.
Birthplace of Myrivilis — hilltop above the Mermaid Madonna harbour
Travel to Lesvos
What to See and Do in Sykamia
The views from the hilltop across the narrow strait toward Turkey give a vivid sense of the geographic intensity of this corner of Lesvos — the coast is barely 10 km away at its narrowest. Stone houses, a traditional square and the literary connection that makes every view from here different.
How long: 1–2 hours. Best combined with: Skala Sykamias (harbour below), Molyvos, Lepetymnos. Best for: Literary travellers, culture lovers, north coast views, slow travel.
Thematic Guides
For detailed coverage of attractions in this area:
- Beaches in Lesvos
- Monasteries & Sacred Places
- Museums
- Castles & Fortifications
- Thermal Springs
- Walking & Hiking
- Food & Gastronomy
- Birdwatching
Where to Stay
Stay in Molyvos village for the full castle-town experience, or in the Eftalou area (3 km east) for a thermal-spa focus. See the Molyvos hotels page.
Sykamia — Travel Notes
Sykamia is best combined with Skala Sykamias below — take the road down to the harbour for lunch.
Near Molyvos
- Skala Sykamias
- Molyvos
- Lepetymnos