Shipwrecks, sponge fishing and striking mountains – that’s Kalymnos for you! This sleepy island in the Dodecanese is made for escaping the crowds. It’s known as a playground for rock climbers, but beyond that, it’s an untapped Greek gem just waiting to be explored.

So let us walk you through everything you need to know about Kalymnos, from where to stay and what to do, to where to eat.

Stay in... Kantouni

This popular resort on the island’s west coast is located by the sea, with rugged mountains in the distance – talk about photogenic! At its heart is a gold-sand beach, with crystal-clear waters for a relaxing dip. Beyond the shore, you’ll find lots of tavernas and cafés for chilled out dinners and drinks.

Stay in... Massouri

Enveloped by a stunning sandy beach and aquamarine waters, Massouri’s touted as one of Kalymnos’ buzziest and most beautiful bases for a holiday. If you can bear to tear yourself away from the cracking views from the beach, tuck into classic Greek dishes at one of the seafront restaurants.

Stay in... Myrties

Named after the myrtle trees dotted through the village, Myrties is a green-tinged natural beauty. Among its narrow passageways, you’ll find fish taverns and cocktail bars that wind towards the sparkling sea. From here, you can catch a boat across to Telendos island.

Stay in... Panormos

Pine-studded Panormos is found in the west side of the Pothia Valley right next to the sea. It’s a favourite on the island for a reason – you’ve got a bounty of beaches to explore from here, from sandy to pebbly, hidden away to long stretches.

Explore Pothia

Pothia, the main port and capital, is the heart of the island and a brilliant place to go for a day trip. Among its quaint alleyways, you’ll find dinky churches and neoclassical buildings, along with lots of coffee spots for a caffeine fix.

Discover Vathy

Vathy, a fjord-like bay hidden among arid mountains on the island’s east side, is a must-see. Contrasting with the barren hills, the turquoise water is stunning and perfect for swimming. And the port of Vathy itself is a picturesque spot for a meal.

Visit Telendos

Teeny and totally gorgeous, Telendos is a tranquil island just off Kalymnos’ west coast. Hop on a boat from Myrties and sail the short journey across to explore the island’s wildly beautiful beaches – Paradise and Potha are two to put on your radar. The port where you dock is teeming with fish tavernas too if you fancy a fresh fish lunch!

Go to Platis Yialos Beach

Rock up to this west-side shore for a day of sunbathing on soft black sand and swimming in mesmerising azure waters. Palm-lined Platis Yialos Beach has two tavernas too, perfect for long lazy lunches in the sunshine. It’s worth sticking around for sunset as well, with astonishing views from this patch of the coast.

Where to... eat?

Aegean Tavern

If you’re after an authentic experience, this family-run restaurant is the place to go, with a promise of 100% Greek produce and traditional Greek cuisine. Take a seat on the terrace and enjoy the outstanding views towards Telendos island.

Dreamcatcher

Venture up the west coast of the island to this on-the-beach gem in Emporios. Dreamcatcher is a family affair, with the team serving up classic Greek dishes – stuffed vine leaves, prawn saganaki and moussaka are among the menu favourites. Look out for the warm homemade bread – it’s simple but stunning!

Mamouzelos

Love seafood? You’ll adore Mamouzelos, as seafood’s the only thing on the menu. Head to this taverna, nestled on the harbourfront at Pothia, and tuck into ultra-fresh catches of the day. Grilled swordfish, ribbons of spaghetti laced with shrimp and sea urchin salad are just some of the gems you can expect!

To Kapsouli

Take a water taxi across to this pretty tavern set on Telendos’ waterfront. It’s thought to be the first on the island and has created a name for itself as a star of Kalmynos’ seafood tavernas. Watch the world go by as you tuck into tuna steaks, oysters and calamari, washed down with a chilled glass of white wine.