Kalymnos is an island of extraordinary beauty, located in the southeastern Aegean Sea, between Kos and Leros and is part of the Dodecanese complex. This rugged island is known for it's sponge diving history from the ancient times and is surrounded by a large number of uninhabited rocky islets such as Glaronisia and Kalavros.
With an amazing coastline and incredible mountainous topography, Kalymnos attracts visitors from all over the world and since 1996 the island has become a worldwide destination for rock climbing with the highest concentration of climbing routes in the world.
The Mediterranean climate provides hot, dry summers with an average temperature of 32°C/89°F and cool, mild winters with an average temperature of 10°C/50°F, making climbing possible all year round. Climbing areas are divided into many sections and cover the whole island, as well as the small island opposite Kalymnos, called Tenedos.
Grande Grotta is one of the most important crags on the island and is located within walking distance from Misouri village. This impressive rock is made out of top quality grey and yellow lime stone and offers three more different sections with a wide variety of routes that rate between 6a and 8a+. It’s top elevation is at 173 m/567.5 ft above sea level and it faces Northwest. All routes start from the “Afternoon” sector, a huge corner on the left side of the crag, with at least 20 routes for warm up. The views are breathtaking, while climbing higher, as you can see almost everything from up there and admire the bluest waters of the Aegean Sea.
The central crag of Grande Grotta is one of the most incredible overhangs on the island, while the “Panorama” section offers a more technical and pumpy climb. Kalymnos is definitely a paradise destination for rock climbers of all ages and skill levels. Climbing during summer is possible only in places that are under the shade of the huge rocks, early in the morning or in the afternoon. The island is rapidly evolving into an international meeting point with many climbing festivals and competitions. If you love rock climbing, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Kalymnos and climb on its amazing crags.
