Explore holidays in Kalymnos & Telendos
Picture rugged mountains and cobalt-domed churches, a bustling port and timeless seaside villages, all set against an irresistible backdrop of deep, mesmerising blue; Kalymnos and Telendos are quietly magical. Sunsets on these islands are some of the most spectacular we've ever seen, burnishing the mountains to a rich gold, and reflecting the warmth of the welcome that's so much a part of the joy of a holiday here.
Just a short hop from Kos but a world away in temperament, Kalymnos offers a more laid-back base for a private villa holiday in Greece, with an artlessness that feels instantly relaxing. This is an island that has held on to its soul, and where the Greek tradition of filoxenia – hospitality towards all –remains an integral part of life. It’s neither trendy nor showy, with just enough tavernas, beaches and charming villages to make holiday here a pure and simple delight whether you choose a villa or luxury private suite.
Kalymnos works beautifully for couples, families and groups looking for a Greek island holiday that’s just a little off the beaten track. At the island's southern end, colourful Pothia offers culture and atmosphere whilst Myrties and Masouri are ideal for families, with the best of the island's lovely beaches and easy swimming. There are watersports and some relaxed, low-key bars, so there is enough going on to keep teens and tweens happy without losing that unspoilt island feel. Further north the landscape becomes ever wilder and more rugged, sheltering gems like Emporios and Skalia from any unwanted development.
For an even more serene experience, take the ferry from Kalymnos to tiny, car-free Telendos island. Born from an earthquake, Telendos today feels like the most peaceful place on earth. Staying here rather than just visiting for a day is a unique pleasure that only a few will ever experience; for a true taste of Telendos, our luxury Pefki Suites deliver quiet luxury, far removed from the unwanted distractions of modern life; safe, serene and stunning in its simplicity.
A selection of our holidays in Kalymnos & Telendos
* Package prices for UK departures include seven nights’ accommodation, flights and transfers/car hire, based on the lowest rate for maximum occupancy.
Our guide to Kalymnos & Telendos
In this section...
Introduction to Kalymnos & Telendos
Part of the Dodecanese islands, Kalymnos is approximately 21km long and is easily reached by flying to nearby Kos. Ferries to Kalymnos from Mastichari port on Kos take between 30 and 45 minutes. Arriving by sea, you dock at the capital Pothia, which rises amphitheatrically around a sheltered natural harbour. The old town is an inviting maze of narrow streets punctuated by ancient wooden doorways, neo-classical houses, bright flashes of bougainvillea and the endless blue of the Aegean that all roads eventually lead you back to. Some houses are painted in bold Mediterranean colours, but most are faded and peeling, weathered by centuries of sunlight and sea air and emblematic of a refreshingly authentic charm that is increasingly hard to find elsewhere in the region. Above all, Kalymnos is unspoilt and untamed, the perfect base for more independent travellers in search of low-key luxury and the raw majesty of nature.
Escape to Telendos
Just offshore from Myrties lies Telendos, a tiny island that became separated from Kalymnos during an earthquake in AD 554. Measuring barely four kilometres end to end, Telendos is only a kilometre across the water from Kalymnos but feels blissfully removed from the modern world, much more akin to an island-hopping experience from the 1970s or 80s than the more polished resorts of today, though you can eat very well and find excellent accommodation if you know where to look. A short water-taxi journey from Myrties brings you to a small fishing settlement with a car-free waterfront plus a handful of tavernas and cafés. The nearest beach is only a short walk from the harbour, while others offer greater seclusion, including one for naturists. Telendos is ideal for an afternoon of swimming and lunch, but it is equally appealing after sunset, when the absence of cars and traffic creates an exceptionally peaceful atmosphere that feels like a real privilege for those lucky enough to be staying here. Staying on either island also makes it easy to enjoy the other: the crossing costs just a few euros and is short enough for an impromptu dinner, sunset drink or lazy day by the water.
Beach holidays on Kalymnos
The beaches on Kalymnos range from accessible, well-serviced stretches to secluded coves reached by boat or on foot. Most are a mix of sand and shingle, so water-shoes are helpful for getting in and out of the incredibly clear sea. Masouri is the principal sandy beach and has exceptional views across to Telendos, while Vlychadia near Pothia combines sandy and pebbly shores and is particularly attractive for snorkelling. Linaria has calm water and is suitable for families, and if it’s arty photos you’re after, visit Platis Gialos with its dark volcanic sand lapped by sapphire sea.
Arginonta is the place to head when you want to escape the crowds, with clear emerald water and a serene setting. For a similarly remote atmosphere, also consider Palionisos, Sikati, Drasonta or Petronta.
A superlative natural playground
Kalymnos rewards curious, independent travellers and those with a little taste for adventure: swim in beautiful bays, hike ancient paths, or explore the rugged coastline by kayak or boat. If you’re here in the cooler months, there are many delightful walks to be enjoyed along coastal paths or between villages. Highlight for many visitors to Kalymnos are the 4000+ well-secured climbing routes for all levels, with steep overhangs and massive caves called out as the most notable features. The scenery here is so dramatic Kalymnos ranks as a world-class climbing destination, with a spring festival attracting vertical enthusiasts from all over the world who come to try and conquer its unique geological formations. You don’t have to rope up to enjoy Kalymnos however; this is a place where nature does all the talking, and the most memorable moments can come simply from a spectacular sunset at a seaside taverna, or a quiet afternoon enjoying the bliss of your own villa or suite and no particular place to be. 
Heritage and history
Kalymnos' identity is deeply connected to the sea. For generations, locals made their livelihood as sponge divers and you can still see a few of the traditional one-room divers’ dwellings in the old town; visit the Naval & Folklore Museum in Pothia for a closer look. Whilst this specialised skill has all but disappeared from the island, there are plenty of places where you can shop for natural sponges, and Kalymnos still operates one of the largest fishing fleets in the Aegean, which means you can enjoy the fresh catch of the day literally within hours of it being landed. Head inland from the harbour and you’ll come to Chorio, the old capital of Kalymnos. The island people once based themselves here for safety from pirate raids, but by the late 1800s this risk had greatly decreased, so Chorio declined as the population headed for coast for fishing and trade, and Pothia became the capital it is today.
Above Pothia, the monastery of Agios Savvas is worth a visit for the views alone, offering sweeping panoramas that inspire further exploration. Away from the capital the landscape quickly becomes more rural, dotted with chapels, monasteries and archaeological remains, including Ellinika and the fortified Panagia Kyra Psili. 
Must-visit villages
Vathy sits like a tiny oasis in the rocky landscape of Kalymnos. The village is sandwiched between a verdant valley of citrus trees and a deep, shimmering turquoise inlet on the east coast. There’s no beach here as such, but you can swim as the locals do, directly from the steps along the harbour front, or take out a kayak to find tiny little coves out beyond the main bay. 
Further west, family-friendly Myrties and neighbouring Masouri are twin villages that almost merge into one another, with restaurants, beach tavernas and unbeatable views over to Telendos island. It’s a top spot on Kalymnos for a villa holiday. Families fall in love with the relaxed vibe plus easy access to swimming, dining and activities without sacrificing that old-fashioned island charm. For older kids and teenagers, there are SUPs and kayaks available to rent. Motorised watersports are generally prohibited on Kalymnos, preserving the peace for all. 
Tiny Emporios lies in the northwest of Kalymnos, and for many, it epitomises Greece as it used to be. Goats on the road, feathery tamarisk trees, a ridiculously photogenic blue-domed church and a clutch of tavernas make this heaven for Grecophiles and anyone looking to unplug for an afternoon, a day or even a week.
At a glance
Map and other regions
Food & drink
Food in Kalymnos tells the story of an island shaped by the sea, the land and generations of sponge divers. Fresh seafood dominates local menus, so look out for tender octopus, stuffed calamari, ray-fish salad and fouska. The gastronomically curious should try spinialo, a.k.a. sea squirts, an opinion-dividing delicacy that originated as a sponge-divers’ snack with a distinctive iodine flavour.
There's plenty to tempt you away from the seafood, too. Try homemade dolmades, rich stewed goat or mirmintzeli, a mix of barley rusk, juicy tomato, local cheese and olive oil. Bigger appetites can tackle mouri – lamb or goat slowly cooked in an earthenware pot until wonderfully tender, traditionally served around Easter. Kalymnos's fragrant thyme honey and local cheeses such as myzithra and kopanisti make lovely gifts to take home.
Then of course there are krithini kouloura, hard, ring-shaped biscuits flavoured with aniseed, pine resin and black sesame seeds, and once the snack of choice for sailors as they would stay edible at sea for months at a time. Pair with a strong Greek coffee, or a glass of sweet local Anama wine. For something lighter, try the fresh fruit juices from Vathy valley, or if you can cope with the strong stuff, ouzo, tsipouro and mastic liquor are all popular on Kalymnos.
Beaches
Vlychadia
This sand and shingle beach is relatively undeveloped, though there is a cash machine, a beach bar and a traditional taverna. Make a day of it and visit the Sea World Museum: a quirky mix of local-themed memorabilia collected by a former sponge diver.
Location: South coast, about 5km from Pothia
Masouri
One of the larger beaches on Kalymnos, it’s mainly sand, with pebbles at the shoreline. There are sunbeds and parasols provided in the main season, plus plenty of cafes and tavernas behind the beach and in Masouri village.
Location: Masouri, on the west coast
Melitsahas
A quieter alternative to Masouri, with a few sunbeds and parasols and some natural shade from the trees. There’s a family-run taverna on the beach, which is a mix of sand and pebbles. Wonderful views over to Telendos
Location: Next to Myrties, on the west coast.
Plati Yialos
Arguably one of the beautiful beaches on Kalymnos, the colours here are intense, from the blue of the sea to the dark grey sand and the above all the golden sky at sunset, with the mini island of Agia Kyriaki silhouetted behind.
Location: West coast, about 3km from Panormos
Arginonta
A little remote but still popular due to its dramatic mountain backdrop and jewel-coloured water, Arginonta also has a diving centre and a shipwreck offshore. There are a few tavernas plus a car park about 500m from the beach.
Location: West coast, about 6km south of Emporios
Emporios
A peaceful beach popular for windsurfing and kayaking on calmer days. The clarity of the water makes it a great snorkelling spot too. There are seaside tavernas, with more places to eat in the main village. Old school Greece, very charming.
Location: Emporios, on the north west coast
Kalamies/Pirates Beach
A secluded, shingle beach, sheltered by rugged mountains. Despite the wild feel, there are some loungers and parasols for hire here, plus a couple of tavernas and a cocktail bar in the main season. The vibe is a bit alternative/bohemian; stunning at sunset.
Location: On the north coast, about 1km from Emporios
Palionisos
Sheltered into a deep inlet on the north east coast, this is a fine shingle beach with emerald-green water. There are a couple of tavernas plus sunbeds and parasols to hire, but the atmosphere is still very natural and unspoilt. The views are breathtaking.
Location: North east coast; the last 200m or so of the access is a rough track
Telendos
Tiny Telendos has several beaches, all delightfully unspoilt as you’d expect in this very special location. Potha, by the harbour, is the easiest to reach and has a few sunbeds; for more secluded options you can walk along country paths to Pnigmenos or Hohlakas
Location: Telendos, accessed by boat from Myrties then walk to the beaches
Things to do
An evening in Pothia
Kalymnos’ capital has around 12,000 inhabitants, so it feels quite bustling for such a small island. Spend some time at the well-rated Archaeological Museum and then stay for drinks or dinner at one of the many bars and restaurants that overlook the port.
Celebrate the sponge!
Sponge diving is deeply embedded in Kalymnos culture. Find out more about the history of this perilous occupation at the Nautical Museum or the more commercial Sponge Warehouse, both near Pothia port.
Agios Savvas monastery & church
Dedicated to the patron saint of Kalymnos, the church and monastery sit high above Pothia. The monastery has an endearing mix of very personal local treasures, while the church interior is so richly decorated it almost feels psychedelic. The walk up is steep, so a taxi is recommended.
Step back in time
Just outside Pothia is a private folklore museum known as the Traditional Kalymnian House. Visit to see life as it used to be here on a very human scale, with an eclectic mix of clothing, household implements, furniture, books, letters, weapons and more.
Boat trip to Pserimos island
Take a day trip to this tiny island to experience its wonderful long sandy beach and seafood tavernas. You can join a guided tour or hop on the local ferry which runs several times a day during the main season.
Island hop for lunch or dinner
Whether you’re staying on Telendos or Kalymnos, it’s easy and fun to take the ferry over to the opposite shore for an alternative view and a delicious meal to go with it. It takes under 10 minutes and runs from 07.00 – 00.00, every half an hour.
Sunset from Masouri beach
Sunset looking over to Telendos island is a magical experience that you can enjoy almost anywhere on the west coast. Masouri beach is a favourite viewing spot, where you can sit with a drink as the sky fades from gold into a star-lit night.
Go diving
With its long sponge-diving history, it’s perhaps no surprise that diving for pleasure is popular and well managed on Kalymnos. Experience exceptionally clear water, wrecks, underwater caves and colourful marine life, with instruction and taster sessions available.
Kefalas Cave
The geology of Kalymnos means it has many caves, of which Kefalas is the most impressive and most accessible. You can drive or take a boat from Pothia, and cover the final 10 minutes on foot before reaching the 100-metre-long cave full of stalactites and stalagmites.
Explore the North
Take a road trip to explore the wilder side of Kalymnos. Begin in Argionta then head to Skalia, with time for a stop at Pirates Beach before continuing towards real old-school Greece: Emporios, where time seems to have stood still, and Palionisos, with its peacock-blue waters.
Skippered charters
Charter a boat and let a local skipper be your guide as the magnificent Kalymnos coastline unfolds in a beautiful voyage past hidden coves and secluded beaches accessible only by sea. Uncover the perfect swim spots and a waterfront taverna for lunch, then drift off whilst the skipper navigates you safely home again.
Kalymnos on foot
Both islands are a pleasure to discover on foot. Bring your boots, your biggest water bottle and a taste for adventure to explore beyond the coast and see Kalymnos and Telendos at their most dramatic and authentic. Springtime is especially magical, when wild flowers carpet the hillsides and scent the air.
