REGION OF NORTH AEGEAN

The Region of North Aegean is perhaps one of Greece’s most vital, thanks to both its rich history and its unique natural beauty. The region stretches over the northeastern section of the Aegean Sea and encompasses four primary islands: Lesvos, Chios, Samos and Limnos, in addition to various other equally picturesque and historically significant islands, such as Ikaria, Fournoi, Oinousses, the heroic Psara, and Agios Efstratios.

The islands of the Northern Aegean have their own rich history, with the first traces of human presence in the region dating to 3000 BC, while prominent city-states such as Lesvos and Chios played a vital role in the development of classical Greek culture. Lesvos, the birthplace of one of antiquity’s most prominent poets, Sappho, is renowned for its literature. Chios, an erstwhile commercial and shipping powerhouse, boasts a unique variety of mastic tree for which it is known the world over. Samos was equally vital in antiquity, known for its shipyards and its major sanctuary dedicated to Hera.  The final island of the four, Limnos, has its own rich history thanks to its strategically crucial location in the Aegean. These islands developed extensive shipping and commercial activities under Byzantine rule, while the Ottomans also left their enduring mark on the local history.

Tourism is a major driver of the islands’ economies; they are especially popular with visitors in search of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and authentic Greek hospitality. Visitors can experience something different on each island in the region, from sandy beaches and traditional villages to historical monuments and local festivals.

From stately Chios, verdant Samos, laid-back and festival-oriented Ikaria, and anise-flavoured Lesvos to volcanic Limnos, visitors are in for the authentic simple pleasures of Greek summer.

The local cuisine of the Northern Aegean has its own distinct identity, combining Greek traditions with myriad influences through the years and top-quality home-grown raw materials. The islands’ farmers and fishermen produce excellent raw materials, and each island has its own unique products and dishes.

Mastic and tangerines from Chios, olive oil from Samos, ouzo from Lesvos, kalathaki cheese from Limnos, herbs and honey from Ikaria, and thyme honey from Fournoi are just some of the many local products used in the region’s delicious dishes and traditional recipes, which are sure to please even the most demanding palates. There’s no end of choices: fish and salt-cured fish on Lesvos, goat kapamas with avgolemono sauce on Fournoi, handmade pasta on Chios, veal and other meats with chestnuts, all washed down with sweet wine on Samos. The local cuisine is truly diverse, weaving a gastronomic tapestry full of authenticity and bursting with flavours and aromas.

The Ikarian diet is known the world over for promoting the islanders’ longevity, as they consume a Mediterranean diet emphasising fresh products and natural foods, combined with a laid-back lifestyle and physical exercise.

Overall, it can be said that the cuisine of the Northern Aegean is a symphony of flavours and cultures that reflect the local history and traditions, inviting visitors to discover the allure of Greek tradition through home-grown products and authentic recipes.

With its diverse attractions, the Region of North Aegean is an ideal destination, incorporating a wealth of different tourist destinations catering to every type of visitor. From their sandy beaches to their cultural heritage, their traditional settlements and archaeological sites, right down to the local flavours and the authentic Greek hospitality, these islands are sure to make for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.