This small, triangular-shaped island of 49 sq.km is located in the center of the Aegean Sea, between the islands of Lemnos and Skyros. It has only one settlement, Ai Stratis, a picturesque small town that is suitable for quiet and relaxing vacations. Inhabited since the prehistoric times, it enjoyed considerable prosperity in the Mycenaean era, as evidenced by the existence of archaeological findings dated back to this era. During the middle ages, frequent pirate raids often forced the populace to abandon the island altogether; in spite of the presence of the castle, the people of Agios Efstratios could never assemble a military force capable of defending against a fleet of pirate vessels. The island offers a fair deal all over, with comfortable accommodations in rooms for rent, taverns serving fresh seafood, coffee shops that switch into bars as the day shifts into night, and marvelous beaches, all of which are accessible by vehicles on a surprisingly fine road network. In addition to swimming, the interior of the island offers a dense network of pathways ideal for trekking adventures. Local festivities are warm, exciting, and inviting. Ferries from Lemnos arrive to the main port every day. |