Kalymnos

Kalymnos

Kalymnos is the Dodecanese island between Kos and Leros long known as the sponge-divers’ island, where almost every family has a history of freediving with the skafandro suit and you can still visit sponge workshops in Pothia, the colourful, amphitheatre-like capital. For decades it was considered rough and working, but that barren, honeycombed limestone that made life hard is now what made it world-famous — as Europe’s best sport-climbing destination, with over 4,000 bolted routes rising above the sea.

Beyond climbing and diving, Kalymnos is surprisingly lively: Pothia has a proper town feel, Myrties and Masouri look out to Telendos islet, and beaches like Platy Gialos and Kantouni are small but crystal. It’s an island where you go for action in the day — climb, dive, hike — and for grilled octopus and patinada music at night, with none of the gloss of its neighbours, all muscle and character.

If you like adventure with your beach, this is your island

Kalymnos is the Island of Sponges, rugged beauty meets serene shores in the Dodecanese. Not overly touristy, but world famous for one thing — climbing.

It’s the ultimate vacation spot for climbers. Endless beaches, fresh bread with olive oil, limestone cliffs, and liters of cold Mythos. Today there are about 3,900 climbing routes for all levels, many with sea views, grades that are considered vacation soft so you feel good. Small family-owned apartments are right next to the climbing sectors, the beaches, restaurants, climbing shops and everything else. That’s what makes Kalymnos great — climbing, beach, great food, easy logistics.

But it’s also become popular for non-climbers who fish, dive, or swim. The best area for beaches is Massouri and Myrties on the west coast, long sandy beach with crystal clear waters and views of Telendos island. Nice and quiet, clean beaches, lots of tavernas, not crowded. You can navigate the whole island by scooter in less than a day, stopping at small beaches, cafes and ocean views. Peace and calm after busier islands.

Before you go — logistics and little things

You get to Kalymnos via Kos. Fly to Kos, then ferry from Mastihari on Kos to Pothia on Kalymnos — fastest 25 to 30 minutes, all year round, over 10 daily crossings in summer, ticket from about €8 to €20. Anem Ferries runs the big vehicle boat Olympios Apollon or Zeus and the smaller fast Kalymnos Star, passenger-only. You can also go from Kos Town port.

Climbing extended the season from three or four months to at least eight months, so spring and autumn are perfect. Summer is hot on the rock but great for swimming. Stay in Massouri or Myrties if you climb, Pothia town for port vibe. No need for big resorts — family apartments are the classic.

Sources

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Last Updated on August 28, 2026 by admin