Famed for its sponge divers, the tiny island of Kalymnos lies just to the north of Kos and is an island of contrasts and rugged beauty. Towering mountains give way to two fertile valleys, and the bustling harbour town of Pothia contrasts with the quiet little villages, secluded beaches, and dramatic coastline.

Standing high on the hilltop, the cross and monastery of Ag. Savas greets visitors as the ferry sails into Pothia. Leading back from the harbour side cafes and tavernas, the narrow streets wait to be explored. From the castle of Chrysocheria, the multicoloured houses of Pothia stretch back up the valley to the old capital of Hora. Topped by the ruins of the byzantine citadel town of Pera Castro, Horas' maze-like narrow streets and alleyways circle the hilltop.

From here the road continues on to the villages of Elies, Massouri, and the western beaches, the views now dominated by the islet of Telendos.

After Massouri, come the village and sweeping Bay of Arginondas, with the road now climbing northwards past terraces of olive groves and beehives before the mountains finally give way to the little bay and village of Emborios.

Travelling eastwards from Pothia, the road offers stunning views of the neighbouring islands of Kos and Pserimos, as it winds its way along the coast before descending into the spectacular valley and fjord of Vathis. Narrow roads flanked by whitewashed walls meander through the mandarin and tangerine groves of the valley to the head of the fjord, and the pretty little port of Rina.