Kalymnos is the fourth largest island in the Dodecanese Islands, measuring about 107 sq. km. It lies between Kos and Leros Islands is 338 km far from the mainland gateway port city of Piraeus.

Kalymnos is known as the island of sponge fishermen.

The island is mostly barren and mountainous so the inhabitants have relied on the sea for their living and became fishermen and sponge divers.



Many of the divers were paralyzed or died as a result of those deep sea dives, and most women on the island were permanently clad in black, mourning the loss of loved ones.

Nowadays, Kalymnos offers the more adventurous traveller a plethora of options. Along with the exquisite beaches, there are mountains for rock climbing. In addition, there is the potentiality for windsurfing, mountain biking, trekking, yachting and of diving.

You should visit the churches of Agios Savvas and the Castle Chrisocheras in the capital Pothia. You can also admire the caves of Seven Virgins, Kefala and Skalion and the workshops of sponges.

From Kalymnos you can pass to the small island Telendos to swim to the idyllic Chochlaka and admire the stunning view from the top of Rachi.

HOW TO GET THERE
By ship: From Piraeus
By airplane: From Athens