Kalymnos Island
Diving & Climbing…….Journey through the Ages
An ideal destination for adventure lovers! Picturesque, unique, picturesque landscapes! Historical, with a history that goes back several thousand years!
Situated between Kos and Leros, Kalymnos is the fourth largest island in the Dodecanese. It is surrounded by quiet islets, some inhabited only by sheep and goats, others – like Telendos and Pserimos – with just a few houses and tavernas.
Kalymnos is mainly mountainous with complicated topography, its majestic mountain slopes fragrant with thyme, sage and oregano – essential ingredients in the delicious honey for which the island is famous. Fertile valleys offer pleasing contrast, especially Vathi with its turquoise fiord and peaceful groves of citrus fruit.
Over the last years, Kalymnos has developed a lot as a rock climbing destination. In fact, as the island is surrounded by some of the finest limestone crags, it is considered among the top climbing destinations in the world.
Sponge diving has long been a common occupation on Kalymnos and sponges were the main source of income of Kalymnians, bringing wealth to the island and making it famous throughout the Mediterranean. The first Kalymnian sponge divers dived naked without equipment and relied on their ability to hold their breath under water. Sponge diving with all its traditions and history still forms the very soul of the people of this island….
Apart from the excellent in quality sponges that can still be found in Kalymnos, the islanders also produce pure thyme honey, famous since the Hellenistic and Roman Age for its quality.
Kalymnos is also a good base for visiting nearby islands. Patmos, Lipsi, Leros, Kos and Nisiros are all accessible for day trips.