This mountainous Aegean island draws rock climbers to its limestone cliffs. Local sponge divers maintain centuries-old traditions while tavernas serve fresh seafood by the harbor.
Kalymnos emerges from the Aegean Sea with sharp limestone cliffs marked by more than 4,000 sport climbing routes. Italian climbers began bolting these walls in the 1990s, transforming the island into a destination for those who scale rock. The village of Masouri sits below crags like Grande Grotta, where routes such as DNA (7a) challenge climbers with steep tufa holds. Before climbing took over, Kalymnos relied on sponge diving—a tradition still visible in Pothia’s harbor, where shops sell natural sponges and old divers repair nets. Ferries connect to Telendos, a small island without cars, and valleys near Vathys burst with orange and lemon trees. Evenings here mean grilled octopus at waterfront tavernas and sunsets coloring the sky behind the Castle of Chrysocheria.
Climbing Routes and Conditions
Kalymnos attracts climbers of all levels, with over half its routes graded below 6b+. The Grande Grotta cave near Masouri has steep tufa climbs that test endurance, while sectors like Arginontas provide slab routes suited for beginners. Local guides run half-day sessions matched to your experience, focusing on areas such as Odyssey for overhanging challenges. October brings cooler temperatures and crowded crags, so try visiting in May or November for fewer people. Bring a 70-meter rope and quickdraws—many routes exceed 25 meters.
Getting to Kalymnos
Fly to Athens, then take a Sky Express flight to Kalymnos’ airport, 20 minutes from Masouri. Flights can be canceled due to wind, so check forecasts. If delays occur, take a ferry from Kos instead—the 30-minute ride reaches Pothia’s port. Buses and taxis connect Pothia to climbing areas, but renting a scooter or car lets you explore beaches like Emporios or Therma. Secure an international driving permit before arriving. Ferries from Rhodes, Leros, or Patmos work for island-hoppers in the Dodecanese.
Sponge Diving History and Museums
Sponge diving shaped Kalymnos for centuries, a risky job documented in Pothia’s Maritime Museum. Displays include heavy copper diving suits, sponges collected from the seafloor, and tools used in the trade. During September’s Sponge Week, watch boat races and diving reenactments along the harbor. Visit the Vouvalis Mansion, a restored sponge merchant’s home with photos of crews and ships. In Pothia, shops near the waterfront still sell sponges harvested by local divers.
Beaches and Swimming Spots
Myrties and Masouri have pebble beaches facing Telendos, where boats depart every 30 minutes. On Telendos, Hohlakas Beach has clear water for snorkeling around rocky outcrops. Emporios, on Kalymnos’ northeast coast, mixes sunbeds with hidden inlets reachable by hiking trails. Vathys Bay, surrounded by citrus groves, stays calm for swimming even on windy days. South of Pothia, Therma Beach draws families with shallow waters and casual spots serving fried squid.
Eating and Drinking
Meals here highlight seafood and local ingredients. Try mermezeli, a salad with crushed wheat, tomatoes, and soft cheese, or spinialo—preserved fish once packed by divers. Aegean Tavern in Masouri grills octopus over charcoal, serving it with lemon and olive oil. In Pothia, Mamouzelos plates shrimp caught that morning, paired with garlic dip. For drinks, Azul Wine Bar in Armeos mixes cocktails with small plates like stuffed grape leaves. Start your day with yogurt topped with honey from nearby thyme fields.
Castles, Villages, and Hiking Trails
The Castle of Chrysocheria above Pothia, built by medieval knights, overlooks the port and climbing zones. Chorio, an inland village, has narrow paths winding past white houses to the ruins of Megalo Kastro. Hike 45 minutes from Armeos to Panagia Kyra Psilis, a monastery partly built into a cliff. Near Skalia, the Kalymnos MK villa demonstrates traditional architecture with stone walls and reed roofs. Most climbers stay in Masouri, but day trips to these spots add history to your trip.
Visiting Nearby Islands
Telendos, a short ferry ride from Myrties, has trails to an abandoned monastery and cliffs where seagulls nest. Swim at Paradise Beach before eating grilled sardines at Anna’s Taverna in Melitsahas. Boats from Pothia go to Pserimos, an island with white sandy beaches and one taverna open in summer. Kalavros, a rocky islet near Kalymnos, offers multi-pitch climbs like Irox (6b) above the sea—bring gear or snorkel its underwater caves.
Planning Your Stay
Book lodging in Masouri for easy access to crags, or choose a villa near Skalia for privacy. Buy groceries at AB Supermarket in Panoramos, which stocks fresh produce and climbing snacks. Refill water bottles at public springs labeled “NERO POTABLE,” as tap water tastes salty. Learn basic Greek phrases like “kalimera” (good morning) to connect with locals. Avoid climbing between noon and 3 PM in summer to prevent rock burns. Check ferry times online—routes shrink outside July and August.
