This well-hidden jewel may not be the first island that comes to mind when planning your Greek escape however, Kalymnos (Κάλυμνος) is the fourth largest island of the Dodecanese and offers an authentic, unpretentious Greek island experience.
Not to mention it has a rich history spanning centuries, a notable mention in the Homeric epics of ‘The Iliad’, a tradition and continuous lineage of sponge divers, and nowadays, is one of the world’s most desired rock-climbing destinations. Need we mention more?
Here are our tips for this idyllic island:
How do I get there?
Kalymnos accommodation ranges from hotels, holiday studios and private homes and apartments available through platforms like Airbnb and Tripadvisor. Our pick of the crop are 2 very contrasted accommodation offers, the ubercool Kastelli Blu Residences and the Apxontiko hotel, a traditional hotel at Kalymnos port.
Kastelli Blu Residences as the name suggests are located at the northwest point of Kalymnos at Kastelli. The two luxury villas have their own unique personality and style. A trailblazer on the island, Kastelli Blu Residences are the ultimate private retreats. Other accommodation offers have attempted to emulate the design and style of the 2 villas however they pale in comparison, unable to capture the soul of what makes these 2 properties unique. Kastelliblu.com
Kastelli Blu SKY is set against the its dramatic mountains and skeletal crags that draw climbers from all over the world. The 2-bedroom villa set on the mountainside with a pool, yoga platform, expansive garden and incredible views across the Aegean, has been professionally interior designed and is the most well-appointed home on the island. Posturepedic mattress, pillows, high thread count linen, Nespresso machine, high speed internet, beach towels, yoga mats and a yoga platform precariously perched on the mountainside, a fully equipped kitchen and the most considered welcome pack on arrival, Kastelli Blu SKY receives 2 thumbs up.
Kastelli Blu SEA, offers a luxury waterfront villa with your own swimming platform straight into the Aegean and an amazing 34 sqm covered terrace with pointblank views of the ocean and sunset make it both an irresistible and affordable luxury accommodation. The interior design has balanced form and function making it both comfortable and a visual. Sunset drinks on the terrace are unforgettable.
The Apxontiko hotel at the port is a late 19th century mansion built by a prominent sponge merchant and has had several incarnations including as the governor’s residence during the Turkish occupation as well as a bakery. It has been a hotel since 1994 and contains several pieces of original furniture as well as preserved original features of the building. It’s simple, clean interiors and affordable rates make it a great base to explore the island from.
When in Kalymnos, it is an absolute must to taste the most popular dishes of the island including:
There are many beaches around the island, some sandy, some with pebbles.
Must visit beaches include Plati Yialos for its black sand, deep waters and to mix with the locals, Massouri beach for teen fun, Kastelli beach for its pocket sized charm, Akti for its remoteness but our favourite place to bathe is off the swimming platform at Kastelli Blu SEA villa. Private and fabulous.
Mamouzelos: Hands down one of the best chefs on the island, with no formal training, George Mamouzelos inherited his love and knowledge of food from his mother, Katerina. After 31 successful years at Linaria beach, the restaurant uprooted and moved to the port in a contemporary space. The menu too evolved with a fabulous orzo, saffron and prawn cooked like a risotto, carpaccio of the freshest fish and grilled octopus like no other.
Prego: For Masterchef fans, make a beeline for Prego at Massouri, where Pantellis Vouros serves up his signature spaghetti with sea urchin.
Mpakalógatos: A must visit tsipouradiko. With fresh seafood and an excellent variety of homemade salads, appetizers and desserts, it is the perfect location for relaxing and enjoying good food.
Cielo: Located at Kalymnos port, this espresso-bar is perfect place to be seen at once the sun sets. It’s buzzy, youthful and serves up a mean drink. Our favourite order is ‘The MERLIN’.
Albus Cocktail Bar: A lovely place to sit and watch the world go by whilst sipping one of their fantastic cocktails. It has a cycladic vibe, an outdoor lounge area, sushi on the menu and amazing views.
Il Postino: At the port is an unassuming café which pumps out coffee and could be easily missed. Best Freddo Cappucino on the island? We’ll leave it to you decide.
Anasis Bakery and Coffee: Although there are several locations, Anasis at the port will satisfy your craving for pita. Whether it’s spanakopita, tiropita or kotopita, they are all delicious.
Vouros: The baklava here would make it as a national finalist. And we can’t forget to mention the homemade ice creams and the ION chocolate waffle.
*Photographs exclusive for Greek City Times (Copyright).
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Copyright Greekcitytimes 2022 All Rights Reserved.