Lying virtually between two continents, Europe and Asia, the islands of the north-eastern Aegean comprise the principle islands of Chios, Lemnos, Samos and Lesvos. They actually set the eastern borders of the Aegean Sea and spread along the coasts of neighbouring Turkey. Mountainous, green and mantled with forests, these islands are ideal for hiking but also blessed with long stretches of lovely beaches. Having common characteristics concerning both history and landscape, they were firstly inhabited in ancient times by Iones. Although somewhat less frequented, the islands have a very well-developed tourist infrastructure, capable of meeting the requirements of the most demanding holidaymakers, as well as congress organisers, while the smaller islands have recently become favourite weekend destinations for people who expect a holiday overflowing with customs and traditions.