Small & Boutique Hotels in Kalymnos Island

In the heart of the Aegean, just across Bodrum, Kalymnos Island, steeped in the legends of sponge divers and home to rocky mountain climbers, is a place where tranquility defies time. The fourth largest island of the Dodecanese, Kalymnos is located between Kos and Leros and is known for its natural beauty and sports tourism. The island remains lively for most of the year, even at the end of the season, not in the middle of the season like September-October. It is almost an open-air playground, especially for travelers interested in extreme sports.

How to get to Kalymnos?

It is quite easy to reach Kalymnos from Turkey. The ferries departing from Bodrum's Turgutreis harbor are only 45 minutes away. The ferries usually run every day during the summer season, but it is still worth checking the departure times before traveling. Note that you need a Schengen visa to use the ferry.

What to see in Kalymnos

Pothia (Island Center): The center of Kalymnos welcomes you when you get off the ferry. It attracts attention with its colorful neoclassical buildings, historical churches and sponge shops. Take a walk along the harbor and have a coffee. 

• Monastery of St. Sava
• Archaeological Museum of Kalymnos
• Folklore Museum
• Chryssocheria Castle

Masouri & Myrties: The beating heart of island tourism. Masouri is a favorite for rock climbers. Myrties is more boutique and romantic. Hotel and restaurant options are limited but of good quality. For this reason, it is important to book in advance, especially in season.

Telendos Island: A tiny island that you can reach in just 10 minutes by small boats departing from Myrties, where there are not even motorized vehicles. There are no roads and the clock runs slowly. Fresh seafood, secluded beaches and perfect silence make it a truly soul-soothing escape.

Vathy & Rina Harbor: Vathy Valley, in the east of the island, is surrounded by citrus groves. Rina Harbor at the end of the valley resembles a fjord with its narrow and long structure. The underwater is clear and the rocks are impressive. It is perfect for activities such as diving, sea kayaking and fishing.

What to do in Kalymnos?

Rock Climbing: This is where the island's real fame comes from. Hundreds of different routes attract climbers from around the world.
Diving: Kalymnos has Greece's first underwater park. Indispensable for divers.
Trekking: Perfect for nature lovers who want to explore hills, valleys and trails.
Beach Enjoyment: Popular beaches: Masouri, Myrties, Kantouni, Panormos
Quiet, calm alternatives: Palionisos (east), Ton Toicho (north), Platys Yialos (black volcanic beach)

Where and What to Eat in Kalymnos?

O Pantelis (Pothia): Local flavors and fresh seafood.
Mamouzelos (Mamouzelos): Shabby but delicious fish.
Kafenes Taverna: Traditional food in an intimate setting.
Tavernas of Telendos: Daily caught fish and sea view accompanied by ice-cold ouzo.
Thyme honey and sponge products unique to the island must be tried.

Where to stay in Kalymnos?

Masouri and Myrties: The most preferred accommodation area. Close to the sea, close to restaurants. Especially boutique hotels like MasouriBlu offer peace and quality together. However, early booking is a must as there are a limited number of hotels.

Telendos: If you want to experience the “spirit of the island”, spend a few nights here. Silence, sea, hiking and peace...

A Small Note: Kalymnos, named after the group of “Twelve Islands”, is actually more than this number. The term “twelve” refers to the administrative unity. The island came under the rule of the Italians in 1912 and Greece in 1947.