Kalymnos

A world-class climbing destination with over 3,000 routes on limestone cliffs, plus a traditional sponge-diving port and the islet of Telendos opposite for a slow-paced island escape.

Kalymnos lies in the Dodecanese in Greece's southeastern Aegean, between Kos and Leros. It covers about 110 sq km and has around 16,000 residents. The island is mostly bare limestone mountains with steep coastlines. Once famous across the Mediterranean for sponge diving, it is now renowned as a world-class sport climbing destination: more than 3,000 bolted routes have been developed, drawing crowds of climbers every spring and autumn. The climate is Mediterranean; the prime climbing seasons are Mar–Jun and Sep–Nov. Jul–Aug is hot — better for swimming and snorkelling than climbing — and in winter boat trips and many guesthouses close. Areas to explore: in the southeast, the capital Pothia is the ferry port, with sponge workshops, the Archaeological Museum, Agios Savvas Monastery and Chrysocheria Castle, while Pera Kastro rises above the old capital, Chorio, to the north. On the west coast, Masouri and Myrties are the climbing and holiday hubs, with crags such as the Grande Grotta right behind the villages and the car-free islet of Telendos a 10-minute boat ride away. The north has quiet bays such as Emporios, Arginonta and Palionisos, while the Vathy fjord and its citrus valley on the east side have a character all their own. In summer you can also take a boat to Kefalas Cave, with its stalactites, and the island of Pserimos. Getting there: a small airport has flights from Athens, but most visitors fly to Kos and take the ferry from Mastichari (about 40 minutes), or take the overnight ferry from Piraeus. Scooters and cars are available to rent, and buses connect the main villages. Stay 4–7 days (climbers often stay a week or two). Always wear a helmet when climbing, and in summer protect yourself from the sun and stay hydrated.

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