Ferry from Kalymnos to Symi

Kalymnos Guide

Forming part of the Dodecanese group of islands, the Greek island of Kalymnos lies in the south east Aegean Sea, to the west of the Bodrum Peninsular between the Greek islands of Kos and Leros. Kos is around 12 km to the south of Kalymnos and Leros is around 2 km to the north. After the islands of Kos and Rhodes, Kalymnos is the third most populous island in the Dodecanese and is known for its affluent population.

The island's terrain is characterised by many mountains and a coastline littered with sheltered coves which make it the perfect destination for a sailing holiday. The island has also been referred to as the "Sponge divers island" because sponge diving has taken place in the islands crystal clear waters for many years. The trade in sponges has brought a significant amount of wealth to the island and has made it famous throughout the Mediterranean.

The island's capital is called Pothia and is also home to the island's port. It is a colourful town that is spread out over the foot and slopes of two hills and the valley between them. There are regular ferry services to Piraeus, Rhodes, Samos and to the other islands in the Dodecanese and the Cyclades.

Symi Guide

The Greek island of Symi is one of the Southern Dodecanese and is located to the north of the island of Rhodes and is close to the coast of south west Turkey. The island is around 13 km in length, north to south, and about 8 km east to west and has a total land area of around 70 sq. km. The four main areas on the island are Yialos, which is where the island's main harbour is located, Chorio is the top town, Pedi Bay is the valley that is located below Chorio and Nimborios is the bay and settlement that lies to the north of Yialos. Also on the island is the small village of Marathounda and the Monastery at Panormitis.

There are a number of popular sites across the island and includes a number of old churches and monasteries with one worth visiting being the Church of Constantinos and Eleni on the southern slopes of the Vigla which has lovely gardens and terraces. Also on the island, and built by the Knights of St. John in the 14th century, is the Monastery of the Archangel Michael at Roukouniotis which was built on the site of a 5th century monastery, which itself was built on the site of a pre-Christian temple.