Greece is famous for its excellent rock climbing spots, especially the island of Kalymnos, known globally for having over 4,400 climbing routes and around 200 new ones being set up every year.

While Kalymnos is the most popular climbing area in Greece, there are other places that are just as exciting. Here are a few mentioned in Chapter 1:

Leonidio in the Peloponnese has recently become a favorite for climbers, with its beautiful red limestone cliffs and a variety of routes for all levels.

So, is Greece the ultimate climbing destination? While that might depend on personal opinion, you can expect to find a fantastic combination of challenges and scenic beauty that's rare elsewhere. Whether it’s the diverse routes in Kalymnos, the breathtaking views in Leonidio, or the historic sites in Meteora, Greece stands out as a top choice for climbers. Many who have traveled with Mapo Tapo believe Greece could be the best climbing spot in the world, especially if you’re looking for more than just a typical climbing experience.

In the following chapters, we will discuss about:

Greece isn't just for those who love history or the beach. In this chapter, we will look at four great climbing spots in Greece, starting from the most popular to the least known: Kalymnos, Leonidio, Meteora, and Crete.

Kalymnos is famous for its top-notch rock climbing and has many routes suitable for climbers at all levels. It’s known for being easy to get to, fun to climb, and not too expensive, making it a top choice for climbers.

The climbing routes in Kalymnos vary widely in difficulty, and they use the French grading system to classify them. About 25% of the routes, around 1000, are rated between 6b+ and 7a+, which is great for climbers who want to improve their skills. For those who like tougher challenges, there are more than 880 routes rated 7b and above. The toughest route confirmed on Kalymnos is rated 9a. Called "Los Revolucionarios" at sector Odyssey, it was successfully climbed by Adam Ondra in 2009.

Kalymnos has climbing spots that range from beginner-friendly areas to spots that test even the most experienced climbers, offering a mix of slabs, vertical and overhanging walls, and large caves. Some popular areas for beginners include:

The Great Cave (Grande Grotta) is not only the most popular crag in Kalymnos but also in all of Greece. It’s not suitable for all climbers, as most of its routes are very challenging and the rock is quite worn, but it’s still worth visiting. It offers about 20 challenging routes on very steep, complex terrain.

One of the biggest advantages of climbing in Kalymnos is how affordable it is. The local community welcomes climbers, with many businesses offering discounts. You can find places to stay starting at about €30 per night for two people. There are also climbing camps and courses for beginners, priced around €350 for a week, not including flights, transportation, meals, accommodations, and personal insurance. Additionally, tour operators like Mapo Tapo often organize group climbing trips to Kalymnos for around 990€.

For more detailed information about climbing in Kalymnos that isn't covered here, make sure to check out this blog post. If you're considering a climbing trip to Kalymnos, it's a great resource.

Leonidio is a newer climbing location that offers a strong cultural appeal, which Kalymnos doesn’t focus on as much. Although its climbing scene is more recent, Leonidio already boasts over 2,500 routes and hosts an annual Climbing Festival that encourages cultural exchange and community building.

The climbing routes in Leonidio suit all skill levels, from beginners to advanced, and there are 40 multi-pitch routes available. Based on our experience, here are some recommendations for crags, depending on your climbing ability:

Why Leonidio stands out as Greece's new climbing gem goes beyond its excellent routes. The town, set along the Arcadian Coast, features beautiful scenery, warm locals, and a rich cuisine that showcases thousands of years of Greek culture. The climbs here offer a fun mix of tufas, pockets, steeps, and slabs with mostly short approaches.

Leonidio is still a quaint, relatively quiet village that offers an authentic Greek experience. The local food is predominantly Greek, featuring delicious eggplant dishes, olives, oranges, cheeses, seafood, and fresh produce. The town's relaxed and welcoming atmosphere makes it an ideal place to relax and enjoy your climbing trip.

If you've seen the James Bond movie "For Your Eyes Only," you might remember the incredible scenes where James Bond climbs up tall rock towers with monasteries on top. These towers have small ledges and caves, some of which were once homes to hermits. This is a good way to picture Meteora, a climbing area in mainland Greece, in the Thessalia region.

The climbing routes in Meteora are unique because they blend physical climbing with a deep respect for culture, which is something you don’t find as much in places like Kalymnos and Leonidio. Many of the routes are suitable for most climbers, with about half of them being easier, up to a difficulty of 6b+. If you're climbing harder than that, there are still plenty of exciting, less-traveled routes to try on the mostly vertical and smooth terrain.

If you’re into sport climbing, nearby areas like Theopetra, Pyli, and Mouzaki have well-secured routes on high-quality limestone and even a small, unusual sandstone bouldering area. These places tend to have steep climbs that include smooth rock and tufa formations.

In Meteora, you’ll find over 900 multi-pitch and single-pitch routes across more than 170 rock pillars. These make climbing here feel like something out of a fairytale.

The rock formations in Meteora are unlike anywhere else in Greece or Europe, giving climbers a truly unique experience. The climbing can feel quite adventurous, with longer gaps between secure points, and bolts that are hard to spot. Sometimes the rocks have loose stones, making it tricky to secure your gear. You might need a full set of traditional climbing gear for some routes, while others only require some quickdraws. Using thin slings to tie off pebbles for extra support can often be helpful.

However, over the past 10 years, the rock has become more stable. Frequently climbed routes have had loose rocks removed by climbers, and the natural paths of water have helped clear unstable stones. But be cautious, especially after it rains, as the rock can become more fragile.

The most popular areas for rock climbing in Meteora, Greece, include the following:

Most popular routes have two secure bolts at the top, but some still use large bolts meant for anchoring. It’s important to differentiate these from the smaller bolts used along the route. When using a single bolt for rappelling, set up your rope so you pull on the end that goes under the bolt when retrieving it, to prevent the bolt from trapping the rope.

Crete is quite different from Kalymnos, Leonidio, and Meteora in how you plan your climbing trips and what you can expect. Its climbing spots are spread out across the island, offering a variety of adventures that require more travel. Crete's climbing includes both traditional sport routes and unique spots for cliff diving into the water, appealing to those who love exploring and finding hidden spots. Unlike Kalymnos, where you can easily walk between climbing spots, Crete blends climbing with other outdoor activities, such as hiking and visiting beaches.

Crete has become one of the top climbing destinations in Europe, with a variety of landscapes that offer many different types of climbing. You can find routes through limestone areas, caves, and even marble, all with interesting rock formations.

Crete’s mild weather allows for climbing all year round, making it perfect for climbers who want to stay active no matter the season. Plus, the friendly locals and great food make longer climbing trips very enjoyable. Here are some key climbing spots in Crete:

In summary, Crete offers a diverse range of climbing opportunities, pleasant weather, stunning scenery, and welcoming locals, making it a top destination for climbers.

Climbing in Kalymnos is incredible, but it comes with its challenges. The island is famous for its steep climbs, so climbers should be comfortable with steep terrains. Most of the climbing here involves gripping onto tufas—rounded, chunky rock formations that jut out—which are fun but can be tough to hold onto because they're so worn down from lots of use, making them slippery and more difficult to climb.

Also, this destination might not suit beginners as much because it heavily focuses on this specific type of climbing. However, for more skilled climbers looking for a variety of climbing styles, they might find it a bit limiting. Still, the island has countless climbing options, no matter what your skill level.

Leonidio is growing as a climbing destination because it’s easy to reach. Many climbers fly into Athens and drive or take a bus to Leonidio, which is only about 3.5 to 4 hours away. Some even drive their own vans or rental camper vans to stay longer.

Besides climbing, there's a lot more to see and do in Leonidio. You can visit the Elona Monastery, explore the traditional mountain village of Kosmas, or drive down to Monemvasia, a beautiful medieval castle town. Leonidio is also a great place to try authentic Greek food at local taverns and restaurants, even if you're on a budget.

Deciding when to climb in Greece’s top spots—Kalymnos, Leonidio, Meteora, and Crete—often means choosing between perfect climbing weather and the tempting warm seas.

In Kalymnos, the best times to climb are spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the areas less crowded. Leonidio is great from November to April because its cliffs provide shelter from the bad weather, making it perfect for winter climbing. Meteora is best during the cooler days of spring or the early warm days of fall to avoid the rainy season. Crete’s mild climate allows for climbing all year, but the best time is from October to April, although summer climbing is still possible.

However, climbing during the hot summer months in these areas can be tough with sweaty climbs and slippery rocks. But there are cooler, shaded spots like the Sikati Cave and the Secret Garden in Kalymnos, or higher altitudes in Meteora and Crete where climbing is more comfortable. In Crete, the Voulismeno Aloni crag offers a variety of climbing styles and beautiful sea views, and it’s good for climbing any time of the year.

Meteora offers a unique climbing experience filled with historical and spiritual depth, quite different from the sport climbing found in Kalymnos and Leonidio. The climbing at Meteora mainly involves multi-pitch routes and comes with more restrictions, both in terms of the climbing itself and access due to the area's religious importance.

Most climbing routes here have permanent anchors, but you might still need to bring your own traditional climbing gear like nuts and camming devices for some climbs. It’s a good idea to bring twin 60m ropes and a set of traditional gear to fully enjoy what Meteora has to offer.

Climbing these multi-pitch routes in Meteora is generally safe, but you should always focus on safety and follow best climbing practices. The climbing routes here are unique and challenging, often requiring a strong commitment and rewarding climbers with incredible views. Since German climbers originally developed the area, you should expect to find some long stretches between secure points, known as run-outs, which are part of the local climbing ethics to reduce rope drag.

In Meteora, you can’t add new bolts, so be prepared to use slings for additional safety. The type of rock here works well with slings, but you need to be careful and make sure you have the right skills and equipment for multi-pitch climbing. Be mindful of the varied terrain, which can include vertical and slabby sections with loose pebbles, as well as the weather and your own climbing abilities, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in Meteora.

Navigating the cost of guided climbs in Greece and using smart money-saving strategies can help you understand how much you'll pay for guided climbing tours. As of 2024, you can expect to pay between €80 to €600 in guiding fees, depending on how long your climbing trip is:

These rates show that forming larger groups or climbing during less busy seasons can save you a lot of money. By joining guided group trips, you can both enjoy your climb more and save money.

For a 7-day guided climbing trip in Greece, prices vary from €1,000 to €2,500 per person depending on the location. Kalymnos tends to be a bit pricier than other Greek climbing spots. These packages usually include your stay, a professional guide, climbing lessons, and different types of rooms. It's best to visit during spring or fall when the weather in Greece is great for climbing and prices are lower.

For example, a 7-day climbing trip to Kalymnos costs around €1,300 for one person, €2,300 for a couple, and about €4,000 for a group of four. But you can cut costs significantly by following some money-saving tips. You might also consider joining a group trip, which could be cheaper, especially since flight costs are not included.

A week-long climbing holiday in Leonidio typically costs between €770 and €1,200 per person. This price includes six nights in an apartment with double rooms. Leonidio offers plenty of budget-friendly accommodation options like apartments and guesthouses that are both comfortable and well-equipped.

While some climbing packages are luxurious and more expensive, there are also more affordable options available that support local businesses and climbing communities, making climbing in Greece accessible to climbers on different budgets.

To climb in Kalymnos without spending too much, follow these steps:

Most climbers choose to stay in climbing villages like Armeos, Masouri, and Myrties on Kalymnos's west coast, where many climbing sites are within walking distance. For a more authentic local experience, consider staying in less touristy villages like Panormos, Kantouni, Linaria, or Platis Gialos.

Reaching Leonidio is straightforward:

To reach Meteora affordably, consider these options:

In Meteora, you can walk to many climbing routes from the village of Kastraki, where most climbers stay. Approaches are generally short, often taking just 15 to 20 minutes.

For an economical climbing trip to Crete, you can:

These tips can help you plan a memorable climbing adventure in Greece while keeping costs down.

From the steep, challenging routes in Kalymnos to the more accessible climbs in Leonidio, the significant multi-pitch routes in Meteora with their spiritual history, and the all-year climbing in Crete, Greece caters to climbers of all levels.

As highlighted in earlier chapters, preparation is crucial. Each climbing area in Greece has its own characteristics and challenges. Whether it's dealing with the steep rocks of Kalymnos, considering the best season to visit, respecting the sacred traditions in Meteora, or managing your budget, being well-prepared is vital for a great climbing trip.

Understanding the costs associated with guided climbs, accommodation, and travel will also help you plan a cost-effective trip. Smart planning allows you to enjoy the best of Greek rock climbing without overspending.

Greece, with its breathtaking views, rich climbing culture, mild climate, and friendly communities, is a top destination for climbers worldwide. Whether you are an experienced climber or just starting, Greece offers diverse climbing experiences that will make your trip unforgettable.