The pick of the beaches on Lesbos, Skala Eressos Beach is 400 metres of volcanic sand around a gently arcing bay.

Settled in the 20th century by hippies and people from the LBGT community, the village behind has a progressive feel and a surplus of yoga, massage and alternative medicine centres.

On the rocks over the beach is a string of cafes and tavernas, some catering especially to vegetarians, and these buildings are all raised on piles that are buried in the sand.