Mystakelli Dairy Products
For those seeking the true trace of FETA on the island of Lesbos, one of the best addresses is the village of Mandamados. Here, under the shade of olive trees, there is a family-run business that continues to produce cheese using traditional methods: Mystakelli.
Operating since 1962, this facility has secured a special place in both the cuisine of the Greek people and in the gastronomic routes of visitors coming to the island. As the GÜVENTUR team, we visited the production facility and summarized this experience for you.
Family Heritage and Local Production
Mystakelli is a cheese production facility operated by the same family for three generations. In a simple building at the entrance of the village, the sheep and goat milk collected daily is processed using traditional methods.
The family's main principle is quite clear:
"FETA is not just a cheese, it is a part of our culture."
Therefore, during the production process:
- No preservatives
- No antibiotics
- No industrial additives
- No chemicals to extend shelf life
are used. The milk is completely sourced fresh from local farmers, and aging occurs naturally.
Mystakelli Products
The main products produced at the facility are:
- Organic BIO FETA (EU PDO - Protected Designation of Origin)
- Katsikio (Aromatic and hard cheese made entirely from goat's milk)
- Soft brined cheeses
- Transportation-friendly vacuum-packaged items
All products can be easily transported to Turkey; vacuum packaging is suitable for customs.
Production Process: Meeting of Tradition and Modernity
While the facility is equipped with modern equipment, the spirit of production is entirely based on traditional methods.
Visitors:
- Can observe the production line through glass partition,
- Can see the tanks where the cheeses are brined,
- Can examine the aging rooms.
It is quite an educational stop for children. The production stages are simple, clear, and open to observation.
Direct Sales Point (ΠΡΑΤΗΡΙΟ)
There is a small sales area at the entrance of the facility. Here:
- Each product can be tasted,
- Purchase with vacuum packaging is possible,
- Card or cash payment is accepted,
- Typically, a staff member who speaks Turkish assists visitors.
If you wish, you can transport the cheeses with cold chain packaging to Turkey.
Visit to Mystakelli with GÜVENTUR Tours
Mystakelli is a special stop in GÜVENTUR's Lesbos Gourmet Tours program.
Tour participants:
- Can observe the production,
- Can enjoy free tastings,
- Get the opportunity to shop directly from the producer.
Mandamados and Mystakelli are always included in our weekly tour programs.
Why Mystakelli?
- Real Greek FETA (100% sheep and goat milk)
- Additive-free and natural production
- Over 60 years of family tradition
- PDO (EU Protected Designation of Origin) certification
- Packaging suitable for Turkey
Location Information
- Address: Entrance of Mandamados Village, Lesbos
- Visiting Hours: 09:00 – 17:00
- Google Maps: Marked as “Mystakelli Cheese Factory”
Pictures from the Visit
- In the production areas of BIO FETA and Katsikio
- Green production building and milk tankers
- Brining tanks and aging room
- Product tasting in the sales office
Final Note
Leaving without stopping by Mystakelli when you go to Mandamados is like leaving Lesbos without tasting ouzo.
If you want to experience the true local production culture, Mystakelli must definitely be on your list.