On the Road – Distance 61.5 km / 40miles Elevation 5240ft 

Beautiful Kalymnos, once known for sponge diving it is a nowadays a traquil haven frequented by the wealthy and by rock climbers. Our loop took in most of the paved roads on the island. Our first village was the charming Chorio, built at a safe distance from the sea to avoid pirate attacks, this was once the capital of the island.

We rolled on past Kalymnos’ most famous beach, Arginonto to Palionissos, one of the quietest bays on the island for our morning coffee and optional swim – as usual the waters are more than tempting with their shades of turquiose! After coffee on Greek time we headed back towards our boat which is waiting with lunch! First we drop into the pretty port of Vathis then continuing on the high rocky road we skirt the southern edge of the island all the way back to Kalymnos town.

Kalymnos

Rugged Kalymnos is characterised by its dramatic mountains that draw hardy climbers from all over the world. Its western flank is particularly spectacular with skeletal crags towering above dazzling blue waters. Surprisingly for its rocky landscape, it cradles a couple of pretty, fertile valleys with bee boxes and olive groves. The enticing, car-free islet of Telendos is immediately offshore, a mere 10 minutes in a water taxi.

While its sponge-fishing heyday is long past, Kalymnos remains inextricably entwined with the sea, particularly in its capital and main ferry port, Pothia, where statues of Poseidon and an historic diver survey the harbour.

In recent years, the island’s activities have expanded from climbing alone. Add to this diving, plus hiking and a host of interesting little museums and cultural experiences, and you begin to see why Kalymnos is now on the Greek islands must-visit list.