Hotels in Greece & the Greek islands

Kalymnos Island, Greece

The sponge-fishers island

Kalymnos is a small Greek island, surface 111 km2. Kalymnos has an irregular coastline with many caves and lovely small beaches. Kalymnos owes its fame to its sponge-fishers. This is the main profession for men on the island, and the theme for many local dances and folk songs. Sponge-fishing means a yearly excursion to the seas off the North African coast, every spring. After approximately five months' hard work sponge-fishers return to the island. The whole island puts on festive dress and prepares to celebrate their return.

Kalymnos, the island's capital, amphitheatrically built, descends to the port like a multicolored torrent of bright houses, churches, and belfries. With the city as our base we shall explore the countryside and villages. Along the island's western coast there are places full of beauty - Linaria and the villages Myrties, Masouri among others. In the south-western part of the island we shall visit the cave of Kefala, with its stalactites and stalagmites, as well as the caves of the Seven Virgins or Cavern of the Nymphs at the foot of mount Flaska, the cave of Scalia to the SW, also Therma - radioactive springs, recommended for many illnesses. Therma is equipped with modern bathing facilities, specialized personnel and rooms for visitors. Chorio, the old capital of the island, is built at the foot of the medieval castle.

With its tiny bays and surrounding islands, Kalymnos is ideal for amateur fishermen. And its transparent sea favors underwater fishing. From Kalymnos we can easily visit the nearby tiny islands of Telendos and Pserimos, which offer idyllic sites for swimming and fishing. Kalymnos has a yacht refueling station.

Even though Kalymnos is not one of the main tourists destinations, is definitely recommended for vacations. Kalymnos is a genuine community where traditions are respected and visitors are instinctively welcome.

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