Greece – The Island of Lesvos at Leisure

Spring Migration Magic

28 April to 5 May 2011

Principal Leader: Colin Bushell

Maximum of 14 clients (two leaders with more than seven clients).

Cost: £1,499 single room supplement £50

Although Lesvos is the third largest of the Greek Islands it is still relatively small, being 70km long and 45km wide, making the whole area easily accessible from one centre. Since it is only a long stone's throw from Turkey, the island's flora and fauna have a distinct Eastern Mediterranean flavour about them. The island has a friendly and easy-going atmosphere. In early spring, the land is still clad in a cloth of green punctuated by splashes of vivid red poppies and washed by the golden yellow of Spanish Broom.

In April and early May, the migration should be in full flow with large numbers of birds heading north. European Roller, Eurasian Hoopoe, Yellow Wagtail and European Bee-eater appear to be alight in the brilliant sunshine. The resident birds are well into their breeding cycle with the air full of song, Cinereous and Cretzschmar's Buntings in the spectacular scenery of the west, and Kruper's Nuthatch in the pine woods. There are over eleven million olive trees on Lesvos so it is no surprise that Olive-tree Warbler is another speciality to seek out. A wide variety of habitats including wetlands, woodlands, saltpans, estuaries, meadows and bare uplands are all within reach of our hotel situated at the end of one of the two large bays that penetrate deep into the island. In a good spring the numbers of birds can be breathtaking, all amidst splendid surroundings. No wonder Lesvos has much to offer the naturalist and ornithologist.

One of the delights of our tours is the chance to have a midday break and eat at small tavernas in picturesque settings. Ornitholidays has unrivalled experience to Lesvos and this will be our 40th holiday - more than any other company. Come with us in 2011 to see why everyone travels with Ornitholidays to Lesvos!