We got back in September from the International Eressos Women's Festival and the two weeks flew by in a blur of sunshine, sea and brilliant company. Lesvos has always held a special place in our hearts, and returning to Skala Eressos with our group felt like coming home.
Where We Stayed
For 14 nights we stayed at the 4 star Aeolian Hotel. Built in typical Aegean style, the extensive grounds gave the resort a wonderfully open and spacious feel. It sits in a beautiful bay with a long golden sandy private beach. The village of Skala Eressos was only a short 10 minute walk away, which is where all the festival events took place.
The hotel had a private beach with a beach bar, complete with parasols and sunbeds. There was also a stunning pool with its own bar, perfect for cooling off during the warm September days. We got active at one of the three tennis courts or the gym, or simply chilled out at the wellness centre. Our stay included half board accommodation of breakfast and an evening meal daily. The food was excellent with a great choice every day. During the day we got drinks and snacks at the beach bar, or sank into the comfy sofas at the cool pool bar. There was a great selection of drinks and cocktails to choose from. No drinks were included in the price.
Days on the Water
We made the most of the activities on offer. There was windsurfing and sailing with tuition included, plus kayaking, stand up paddle boarding and rowing. For those who preferred to stay on land, there were mountain and road cycling routes, fitness classes, volleyball, and tennis or paddle tennis.
Out on the water, we tore across the Aegean on jet skis, gripping the handlebars and laughing as the spray hit our faces. We took kayaks out into the bay, proudly flying the rainbow flag, and piled onto giant inflatables that had us shrieking with laughter and falling overboard. Whether we were swimming, paddle boarding or just floating, being out on that water together was pure freedom.
Evenings Together
The evenings were just as wonderful. We gathered at long tables by the sea, sharing plates of Greek food, passing around bread and olives, and talking late into the night. We had a lot of fun with our wardrobes too. A few of us turned up in matching patterned shirts, which led to a rather hilarious group photo where everyone struck a pose and nobody took themselves too seriously. It was one of those perfect moments where you look around and realise you are surrounded by women who are completely comfortable just being themselves.
Exclusive Fashion Show with GFW
We also had the absolute joy of collaborating with GFW, a brilliant gender-free clothing company. They hosted an exclusive fashion show just for our group, featuring six women from the trip modelling the clothes. It was such a hit that the rest of the group was inspired to buy some of the designs. GFW designs their shirts in four distinct body shape templates (Alex, Billie, Charlie, and Drew) so everyone can find a flattering fit. Ethically made from quality cotton, they prove that unisex does not have to mean a shapeless baggy hoodie.
The Festival Spirit
That is what makes Lesvos so special. You can drop your guard, be a bit silly, and know that the women around you will just laugh along with you. We walked into town every day, browsed the shops, and soaked up the unique atmosphere of the festival. There was music, dancing, and a real sense of community everywhere we went.
What Our Guests Say
We love hearing how much these trips mean to the women who join us as
Kathy from Chicago put it: "What a fortnight! What more could a lesbian ask for??? Incredible women, perfect location, ideal weather, and so much more. A huge thank you to Jen, Caron & Stacey for their work in bringing this and so many other amazing travel opportunities for all of us. Making new friends this American could once hardly seem possible."
Until Next Time
We came home with tanned shoulders, very tired legs, and faces that ached from smiling so much. The festival is a beautiful thing, but sharing it with a group of women who started as strangers and left as friends is what made it truly unforgettable. If you have never been to Lesvos, we cannot recommend it enough. Come and be part of the sisterhood next time.
