Kalymnos
Greece · South Aegean · 10 m
Description
Kalymnos (Κάλυμνος) is a Greek island in the eastern Aegean, known for its long tradition of sponge diving and its dramatic rocky landscapes. The port town of Pothia preserves the island’s maritime heritage with neoclassical houses, traditional sponge workshops and museums. It is also home to the famous Hellenistic bronze statue known as the Lady of Kalymnos. Since the 1990s, Kalymnos has become one of Europe’s leading climbing destinations, with thousands of routes across the limestone cliffs around Massouri and Myrties. The Grande Grotta is among the island’s most renowned climbing sectors. In fertile Vathy, citrus orchards and gardens surround a sheltered bay.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 2 to 10 days (optimal 4 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: April – June or September – October
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Pothia harbour town
- Grande Grotta climbing cave
- Massouri & Myrties climbing sectors
- Massouri Beach
- Myrties Beach & sunset
- Sponge-diving heritage & sponge workshops
- Telendos island
- Vathy inlet & citrus valley
- Kantouni Beach
- Archaeological Museum & Lady of Kalymnos
- Pera Kastro fortress
- Panormos village
- Linaria Beach
- Castle of Chrysocheria
- Emporios village
- Kalymnos scuba diving
- House of Kalymnos folk museum
- Kalymnos hiking trails
Getting there
- Airports:
- JKL
- Seaport:
- Reachable by ship or ferry