PLAN YOUR KALYMNOS TRIP

The easiest and fastest way is to fly to Kos (KGS), then take a ferry to Kalymnos. • From Kos Airport: Take a taxi (10 min, €18) or bus (€3) to Mastichari port. Frequent ferries (10-12 per day in season): 30 min on fast boats, 45 min on slower ones. Ticket price: around €8-12. No need to book in advance except in peak season (August-October). Up-to-date schedules: check official company websites (ANEM,(https://anemferries.gr) ANEK)(https://www.anek.gr) or the Ferryhopper (https://www.ferryhopper.com/)app. Warning: Ferry schedules are updated every 15 days. Please double-check the timetable closer to your travel date. • Alternative from Kos Town: One ferry per day (Blue Star Ferry)(https://www.bluestarferries.com) from the main port of Kos (further from the airport, more expensive taxi). Avoid unless strong winds block Mastichari. • Via Athens: Flights with a stopover in Athens are possible. Use it for a rest night or quick city visit. Direct ferry Piraeus → Kalymnos: ~10-11 hours, comfortable but long. Upon arrival in Pothia (Kalymnos port), bus (€3) or taxi (~€18, 20-25 min) to Massouri/Myrties. Good option is to rent a car in Pothia.

Kalymnos enjoys an ideal Mediterranean climate for climbing: • Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October-November): perfect temperatures (20-28°C), little wind, dry rock. The most recommended periods. • Summer (June-August): hot (30-35°C), but warm sea (22-24°C) for DWS and plenty of afternoon shade on east-facing sectors. • Winter: mild but rainy and windy, less suitable for climbing.

The meltemi (northerly wind) can blow quite strongly in summer, but it is rarely an issue for the main cliffs. In fact, this wind is what keeps the island temperate and makes climbing possible even in peak summer, with often pleasant conditions. However, in strong winds (generally from force 6-7 Beaufort, around 40-60 km/h, depending on boat size), port authorities may prohibit navigation on the Kos-Kalymnos route, especially from Mastichari where ferries are smaller. This happens about 3 to 4 times per season and rarely lasts more than a day. Practical tip: if strong winds are forecast for your departure day, it’s wise to anticipate by crossing to Kos the day before and spending a night there. It is often more difficult to change a flight ticket at the last minute. You can also take the larger ferries (one per day) going to Kos Town. If in doubt about ferries, contact the Kalymnos Port Authority directly at +30 22430 24444 (or +30 22430 29304).

If staying in Massouri/Myrties, you can walk to about ten sectors (~1000 routes). For a short trip, this may be enough. However, to fully enjoy the island’s most beautiful sectors (Summertime, Arginonta, Noufaro, Secret Garden,…), a vehicle is strongly recommended. • Scooter: practical and affordable (€10-20/day). Be cautious on winding roads and frequent accidents. • Car: safest and most comfortable option (from €30-40/day). Many rental agencies in Pothia (near the port) or Massouri. With me: during your sessions, I drive you to the cliffs in my van – no need for a vehicle on those days.

Massouri and Myrties remain the best choices: immediate proximity to cliffs, restaurants, supermarkets, beaches. • Booking: Airbnb,(https://airbnb.com/) Booking.com,(https://www.booking.com/) or directly with local studios/apartments (very plentiful). • Budget: €40-80/night for a well-equipped studio (kitchen, AC, balcony). Book early in high season. • Alternatives: Armeos, Skalia or Emporios for more peace, but further from the action.

Tap water on the island is technically potable (chlorinated and controlled), but it is often brackish – slightly salty with an unpleasant taste. This is due to Kalymnos’ geology: a limestone, arid island with few natural freshwater sources; groundwater tables are close to sea level and subject to saltwater intrusion (saline intrusion phenomenon). The taste varies by village and time of year (more pronounced at the end of summer when reserves are low). No issue for showering, washing dishes, or cooking pasta, but for drinking, tea, or coffee, you’ll quickly notice it! Practical solutions: • Two free water dispensers (filtered fresh water fountains) in Massouri (https://maps.app.goo.gl/5fHX9UTDwAaT44qw8)and Myrties (https://maps.app.goo.gl/LUhzzQLKArch2j8R6)– bring reusable bottles. • Otherwise, buy bottled water in supermarkets (inexpensive and widely available). Using a reusable bottle and refilling at the fountains is both cost-effective and eco-friendly!

Kalymnos offers excellent Greek cuisine for all budgets: • Massouri/Myrties: wide variety (traditional tavernas, pizzerias, fish restaurants). • Recommendations: great spots in Myrties, Armeos, Emporios (fresh fish), or even Vathy for a break after DWS. Do not hesitate to ask me, I know the good ones. • Supermarkets: several in Massouri for groceries and picnics. Studios: most have a kitchenette – perfect for preparing light, budget-friendly meals.

• Insurance: Individual accident/repatriation insurance (e.g., premium bank card, FFME, foreign federation, or personal) is strongly recommended. My professional liability insurance covers only my services as an instructor. • Health: Pharmacies and medical centre in Pothia. Sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and a first-aid kit advised.

• Currency: Euro (€). Cards accepted almost everywhere in Massouri. ATMs widely available in Massouri. • Internet: Free Wi-Fi in most cafés/restaurants and accommodations. Good 4G/5G coverage. • Language: English widely spoken in tourist areas. • Respect for the environment: Leave no trace, pick up your rubbish, respect private access to cliffs.

If you're traveling with little ones and want to climb with complete peace of mind, I highly recommend the Monster Café: a professional and warm daycare run by a lovely couple (and my friends!). Located just below the Grande Grotta, it offers a safe and fun space for kids, with a great café vibe (drinks, cakes, Wi-Fi). This way, you can climb worry-free while your little ones are in excellent hands. All practical info (hours, rates, booking) is on their website: https://monster-cafe.com(https://monster-cafe.com/)