Kalymnos meet report 2

We took Geoff’s advice to not eat goat stew and also bought ferry tickets in advance. On the way back we had 4 hours to kill in Mastichari, all well, relaxing in a restaurant until the time to go to the airport arrived. No taxis! Asked around, still no taxis. Missing the flight looked like a distinct possibility, until Julie spoke to a local lady who made 2 trips to the airport taking all 7 of us in her own car – legendary Greek helpfulness and hospitality!

Kostas and Kasia rated ‘Kos’ and ‘Symi’ at Ghost Kitchen, also the most fun route with an amazing roof ‘Le Pote Age extension’ in Arginonta Valley. Other highly rated routes were ‘In Vino Veritas’ and ‘Alani’ at Arginonta Valley; ‘Pornokini’ at Arginonta.

Teri and Steve cruised up the 10 pitch classic ‘Wings for Life’ so quickly that they ended up spending several hours in a restaurant on Telendos, it’s a hard life!

Julie’s favourite crag was Afternoon. She led several 5c routes, ambition is a 6a next time.

Tom led the unusual cave route at Arginota Valley ‘Bichon Direct’, ticking off one of his first outdoor 6b leads with several photo opportunities.

Kial and myself did ‘Three Stripes’ a 6 pitch 3* route just left of Sparticus, excellent, thanks to Kial for inspiring me to do it.

Milianos above the beautiful Vathy Valley is recently developed with good lines and unpolished rock. Steve (from Hebden Bridge) finished the day by making short work of leading ‘Bertie Baiting’ 6b+ which both Chris and myself managed to second.

Favourite restaurants included Manifesto, Anna’s tavern, Aegean and the veggie Kalymnos Experience. Best cocktails: Thyme in the Sun and Whiskey Sours at Mickies.

Teri summed it all up – an excellent first trip to Kalymnos for me. Already planning to go back!