Pretty much every climber who visits Kalymnos will make their way over to Telendos at some point. Telendos was separated from Kalymnos during an earthquake in 554 AD. Now, a small channel separates Telendos from Kalymnos. The majestic mountainous island is one of the hallmark characteristics of Kalymnos and it’d be a shame not to visit for yourself.
If you are a beginner climber, you can certainly spend some time in Telendos. After that, find all my favorite beginner climbing spots in Kalymnos.
Everything you need to know about climbing in Telendos
About Telendos
Telendos is definitely worth visiting, for a climb, a hike or just a tranquil lunch at one of the few tavernas at the harbor.
This quiet island has no cars, motorcycles or even roads. Only around 60 people live here permanently, and other than the dozens of climbers per day, the island remains desolate.
Many people on Kalymnos, myself included, wake up each morning or fall to sleep each night staring at the face of Telenodos, finding themselves talking to it. Yes, I definitely say good night to Telendos each evening.
There are many beliefs around what the island resembles, a sleeping elephant is my favorite. Another popular one is a preacher bowing down. Whatever you see when you stare across the water, I can promise you will find Telendos majestic, particularly after the sun sets and the silhouette pops against the midnight night sky.
The Telendos Ferry Schedule
From the port in Myrties, boats leave to Telendos daily every 30 minutes. In peak season, that’s April to October-ish, they start around 7 am and end at dusk. The journey takes about 10-minutes and costs just €2 per person one-way. To go to Irox, it costs €10 per person round-trip most days. This depends on how busy things are, as they typically impose a 6-person minimum to drive over to Irox. If the boat is not full, they may charge more. Last time we went to Irox were only four of us and we still paid €10 each.
Getting to Telendos to Climb
Tip for getting to Telendos to climb: If you’re worried the boat’s not running, pop by the port on a rest day to ask the schedule. Otherwise just show up past 8 am on a calm wind day, and you’ll be sure to catch a boat over without any challenge.
Irox is an additional 20 minute boat ride from Telendos harbor. The ferry is small, open and filled with climbers in the early morning and afternoon if the seas are calm.
Rather than take the boat to Irox, you can also walk from the harbor in Telendos to the crags. The walk takes an hour or more depending on the crag you choose. The path tends to be in direct sunlight pretty early in the day so it can get hot.
The first time we visited Telendos we chose this option. We wanted to see the island and take it easy at the crag, so it was a fun time. For a harder climbing day, it’s better to take the boat to Irox so you can get started earlier.
Tip to get the most out of your trip to Telendos: Take the boat to Irox in the morning and hike back in the evening. This way you can take a (skinny) dip and enjoy yourself at one of the restaurants at the harbor before taking the ferry back to Kalymnos. Don’t worry, before the last boat they flash the lights to make sure everyone makes it back to Kalymnos. A mass exodus in the dark then transpires.
What to pack for climbing in Telendos
I recommend planning to spend the full day at Telendos, arriving in the early morning and leaving the crag around 4pm. Take one of the morning ferries over and be sure to pack all your climbing gear, swimwear, lots of water and extra snacks. There is no access to restaurants, bars or bathrooms anywhere near the crags – so come prepared, especially if you plan to hike in either or both directions.
It can be warm, but it can also be cold and windy in the shade. Bring layers for the crag, as always.
If you need a full packing list for climnbing in Telendos or Kalymnos, I share here what to pack for Kalymnos, Greece.
Climbing in Telendos is for everyone
Climbing in Telendos is possible for anyone, of any level. On the North and South Face are some impressive multi pitch alpine style climbs.
Irox is the busiest spot on Telendos for climbing. This is where the boat drops everyone off, so it is especially popular at the end the day. It gets shade after 2pm. From Irox you can walk left or right to find other popular crags, like Eros, Glaros, Pescatore and further afield, Lambda.
Check the guidebook and choose your preference, you can’t go wrong! The crags all have incredible views. You can bop around from spot to spot, always ensuring you climb in the shade.
Continue reading for the best beginner climbing spots in Kalymnos and Telendos.
After all that climbing you’re bound to be hungry! Here’s where to eat in Kalymnos.
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