Rock Climbing in Kalymnos, Greece

Just 10 km off the coast of Turkey, Kalymnos is one of the Greetian Dodecanese islands and a climber’s dream. While it was once the home to sponge divers, it is now visited by off-the-beaten track tourists and climbers throughout the world. On the far side of the island from the main port sits Masouri, a tiny fishing village and the base for the climbing community. The village is walkable with cafes and small apartments throughout. Hop on your rented scooter and travel to any of the dozens of crags throughout this small, funky island. Fabulous, mostly overhung limestone awaits throughout the island, along with friendly goats, welcoming locals, and gorgeous Mediterranean vistas. While most prefer to visit on the shoulder season, the summer is also viable so long as you’re willing to chase the shade and enjoy spending your afternoons on the rocky beaches. Growing wild throughout the island is thyme and the bees prefer their purple flowers. As such, you can’t go home without a pint of Kalymnian honey, a uniquely scented local treat.