Leros, the island of Artemis. has 54.24 sq.km. of area, 77 km of coastline and is 12 hours from Piraeus by boat. At first sight, it might seem barren and inhospitable to visitors. This impression disappears when one sees the low mountains that surround its beautiful sandy beaches. Leros is verdant but does not have many woods, except for some wooded patches on Laki bay, Merovigli, and Apitiki. It has been admired for its excellent climate since antiquity. It is hot in the summer, mild in winter, and has almost no snowfall. The inhabitants are good natured, hospitable and cheerful. They are always willing to attend to visitors, and they have developed a satisfying tourist infrastructure. They are mostly fishermen, but there are also many farmers and stock-breeders.