Kalymnos, a climbing paradise!
In June of 2005 my family and I went to the Greek island of Kalymnos for a climbing vacation. The experience exceeded my expectations. The rock is superb, generously featured limestone and well-protected routes have been developed at all levels down to 5.5. There are numerous routes of all grades though the majority are in the 5.9 to 5.11 range. The scenery is spectacular and the accomodations and food are very reasonable. When it gets too warm to climb, just head to the beach for a cold drink and a dip in the ocean. To get there just fly to Athens and catch the short flight to the island of Kos. At Kos, board a ferry for a 45 min ride to Pothia, the port city of Kalymnos. From Pothia, it's a 15 min. taxi ride to the resort city of Massouri which is a 20-30 min. walk from some of the crags (or "sectors" as they are called there). Other sectors require the rental of a bicycle, scooter, or car. Below are links to some of the photographs from our trip. Fire me an email if you have any questions. We're headed back there as soon as we can afford it!
Kevin starting route at Odyssey
Kevin lowering off route at Odyssey
Climbing stalactites ("tufas") in Arhi cave
