Where to stay when visiting Kalymnosclimbers edition
Where to Stay in Kalymnos for World-Class Climbing
Kalymnos, a rugged Greek island in the Aegean Sea, has earned legendary status among climbers. With over 3,400 bolted routes, perfect limestone, and a tight-knit international community, it’s one of the world’s premier sport climbing destinations. From tufas and overhanging caves to vertical faces and slabs, Kalymnos delivers climbs for every style and level.
Whether you’re here to project an 8b+ in Grande Grotta or cruise your first 6a on sunlit Arginonta, where you staywill shape your experience. Here’s a breakdown of the top areas to stay in Kalymnos, each with its own vibe and proximity to the crags.
Massouri – The Climbing Capital
Best for: Easy access to iconic crags, nightlife, and community.
Massouri is the hub of the Kalymnos climbing scene. Just steps from legendary sectors like Grande Grotta, Panorama, Spartacus, and Odyssey, it’s where most climbers choose to stay. The cliffs here are packed with lines from 5c to 9a, making it ideal for everyone from beginners to elite athletes.
Expect a mix of affordable studios, cliffside hotels, gear shops, cafés, scooter rentals, and seaside tavernas. In the evenings, the town comes alive with climbers swapping beta over souvlaki and beer.
Myrties – Calm, Convenient, and Sea-Front
Best for: A quieter stay close to Massouri and the Telendos ferry.
Just north of Massouri, Myrties is a laid-back alternative that still offers walking access (10–15 mins) to major crags. It’s home to the small port for boats to Telendos, and accommodations here often have sweeping views of the sea and cliffs.
If you want close proximity to climbing with a slightly more relaxed vibe, Myrties is a top pick.
Panormos – Local Charm and Strategic Access
Best for: A base with a local feel, best with a scooter or rental car.
Set slightly inland, Panormos offers a more residential experience, with family-run villas and apartments nestled in olive groves. You’ll need transport, but it’s a great jumping-off point for less-crowded gems like Skalia Pillar, Symplegades, or Secret Garden—sectors with beautiful grey and orange limestone in the 6a to 7c+ range.
Bonus: It's also closer to shops, bakeries, and local markets.
Emborios – Remote and Peaceful
Best for: Nature lovers, solitude, and adventurous crags.
Tucked into the island’s northwest coast, Emborios is the quietest base for climbers. You’ll wake to goats and waves, not scooter traffic. Crags like Kastri, Nifada, and Black Forest are more remote, often requiring longer approaches, but reward with pristine white and grey limestone in a peaceful setting.
There are only a few guesthouses and tavernas, but the seafood is fresh, and the sunsets are spectacular.
Telendos – Wild, Car-Free, and Multi-Pitch Paradise
Best for: Adventure climbing, rest-day escapes, and immersive Greek island vibes.
A 10-minute water taxi from Myrties takes you to Telendos, a car-free island with a timeless feel. It offers multi-pitch and sport climbing in dramatic settings at crags like Eros Wall, Irox, and Miltiadis, with routes from 5c to 8b.
The island is perfect for climbers wanting tranquility, challenge, and unforgettable views. Accommodations are limited to a handful of family-run guesthouses and tavernas, so book early in high season.
Quick Tips for Climbers
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Best Season: March–May and September–November. Summer is hot but climbable in shady sectors.
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Transport: Rent a scooter or car for full sector access. Taxis and buses are available but less flexible.
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Rest Days: Explore Pothia town, soak in the sea, hike to remote chapels, or take a day trip to Leros or Telendos.
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Gear Shops: Found mainly in Massouri—stock up on chalk, guides, and beta here.
Final Thoughts
Kalymnos isn’t just a climbing destination—it’s a lifestyle. Whether you crave the buzzing energy of Massouri or the serene cliffs of Telendos, there’s a perfect base for your goals. Expect world-class limestone, stunning views, delicious food, and a community that shares your love of rock.
No matter where you stay, Kalymnos delivers.