Kalymnos map

 Capital: Pothia or Kalymnos

Overview:

Kalymnos is a large island surrounded by several small islets. The inhabitants have a tradition in sea activity, while the island is mostly known for its honey due to the excellent aromatic herbs in the region. You also find golden beaches, green valleys, traditional houses and tree-lined roads that give out a beautiful image. The island is nevertheless mainly mountainous and barren.

Best Kalymnos Sights:

• The Byzantine Fortress ("The Kastelli")

• The Fortress at Chorio and the Fortress of Cryssocheria, both built by the Knights of Rhodes

• the Fortress Monastery of Panagia Kyra Psili

Places to visit:

• the Cave of the Nymphs in Pothia ("the Cave of the Seven Maidens") and the Cave of Kefala

• the Cultural Centre of Kalymnos

• Telendos Island, with the Monastery of Agia Vassileos dominated by a Medieval Castle

• The small village Vathis

Best Kalymnos beaches:

Gefyra, Therma, Vlychada, Pothia, Almyra, Palionissos, Drassonta, Sikati, Akti in Vathis, beaches at Emporio, Armeos, Myrties, Platis Yalos, Kantouni, Linaria, Pserimos, on Telendos Island and the Plati Islet

Special Events:

The Municipal Festival from July to September, the Carnival at Chorio, the Easter Sunday festivity and many religious feasts describe the cultural activity of the island, deep in tradition.