The wonderful island of Kalymnos offers beautiful beaches and picturesque island villages. It invites tourists for a hot relaxation in the sea and on the beaches, but not only.
The island is famous worldwide for its traditional sponge harvesting. After World War II, it was the only Greek sponge trade business that survived and flourished. Active tourism offers climbing on giant vertical rocks and visiting shipwrecks that lie on the seabed and discovering amazing caves. If you are talking about activities, you should definitely pay attention to practicing water sports that visitors love!
Location
Kalymnos is a Greek island in the southeastern Aegean Sea. It belongs to the Dodecanese island chain, between the islands of Kos and Leros.
Best Beaches:
On the island you will find dream beaches, ideal for unforgettable diving and sunbathing. One of the most popular beaches is the sandy beach of Masouri, 9 km west of Pothia. Therma is the closest beach to Pothia, only 2 km away, while Vlychadia (5 km from Pothia) is actually made up of two beaches, a sandy one and a pebble one.
Linaria is a family beach, while younger people choose the cosmopolitan beach of Kantouni. Platys Gialos is famous for its black sand and is suitable for fishing. Emporeios is a favorite spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts. If you want to escape the crowds, choose Arginontes Bay or the beaches of Almyres, Drasonta, Pezonta, Palionisos, Sikati and Petronta, which can only be reached by boat.
- Arginonta Beach
- Gefyra Beach
- Emporio Beach
- Therma Beach
- Linaria Beach
- Masouri
Pothia
Pothia is the vibrant capital of Kalymnos and the island’s main port. The town has managed to retain its traditional character while evolving into a bustling hub of activity. As you wander around Pothia, you’ll come across a number of buildings that reflect the town’s historical significance and architectural charm. The town’s waterfront is lined with a diverse array of cafes, bars, and restaurants, offering plenty of options for dining and relaxation.
The new Archaeological Museum of Kalymnos is a must-see for history enthusiasts. Additionally, the Municipal Naval Museum is worth a visit, particularly for those interested in maritime history.
Pothia is renowned for its natural sponges, a traditional product that has been processed and exported from the island for generations. You can purchase these high-quality sponges directly from local shops.
Therma Beach
The beach Therma is located just 2 km away from Pothia. Both on the beach and in the sea there are rocks. You can also enjoy your plunges in deep waters from the dock. On it, you will find too a restaurant while there are umbrellas and sunbeds on the beach.
Therma beach is covered with sand and pebbles, the cliffs and the wonderful blue water add charm.The total length of the beach is about 40 meters. The depth increases slightly, water shoes are recommended.
Kalymnos Castle of Chora of Kalymnos
Chora Castle in Kalymnos, Greece is a very interesting tourist attraction. It is located on the site of ancient Pothia and was the medieval capital of Kalymnos. Originally built in 1495, the castle was continuously inhabited until 1812. Today, it is still an impressive sight. To get to the castle, you have to climb 230 steps from Pothia to the gate.
Inside you will find a collection of historic buildings, including several houses, two large water tanks, a stone mill pond and a well-preserved stone cylinder used for crushing olives. There are also ten churches on the castle grounds. Outside the castle, on the eastern wall, are cannon towers used for the castle’s defense.
Agios Savvas Monastery
The Monastery of Agios Savvas the Young rises on a hill next to Pothia. It has an amazing four-story bell tower, a cruciform church with domes, and picturesque whitewashed chapels. The entire complex has been rebuilt according to Byzantine standards and is adorned with magnificent frescoes and icons.
The Sponge Diving Museum
Sponge diving has been a vital part of the island’s culture and economy for centuries. The History of Sponge diving began on Kalymnos over 2,000 years ago.
Today, while the natural sponge industry has declined due to overharvesting and the introduction of synthetic sponges, Kalymnos continues to produce high-quality, natural sponges that are prized around the world. These sponges are harvested sustainably, and the island remains one of the few places where traditional sponge diving techniques are preserved.
Sponge Diving Museum (Valsamidis Museum): Located in Pothia, this museum showcases the tools, diving suits, and other equipment used by sponge divers over the centuries. It also provides a fascinating look into the dangers and hardships faced by divers.
Archaeological Museum of Kalymnos
The Kalymnos Archaeological Museum offers fascinating exhibits spanning a wide range of historical periods, from the prehistoric era to the Roman period. As you wander through the museum, you will come across artifacts, sculptures, pottery, and other relics that tell the story of Kalymnos and its people. The Kalymnos Archaeological Museum is conveniently located in the island’s capital, Pothia.
