Kalymnos

Rugged Kalymnos is characterised by its dramatic mountains that draw hardy climbers from all over the world. Its western flank is particularly spectacular with skeletal crags towering above dazzling blue waters. Surprisingly for its rocky landscape, it cradles a couple of pretty, fertile valleys with bee boxes and olive groves. The enticing, car-free islet of Telendos is immediately offshore, a mere 10 minutes in a water taxi.

While its sponge-fishing heyday is long past, Kalymnos remains inextricably entwined with the sea, particularly in its capital and main ferry port, Pothia, where statues of Poseidon and an historic diver survey the harbour.

In recent years, the island's activities have expanded from climbing alone. Add to this diving, plus hiking and a host of interesting little museums and cultural experiences, and you begin to see why Kalymnos is now on the Greek islands must-visit list.