Kalymnos used to be known for fishing and its sponges; now a major tourist layover, it has nonetheless succeeded in preserving some of its scenery. Towards the northern tip, the arid mountains plunge into the sea. The fertile valley of Vathi and the ribbon of pines unfurling from Pothia to Panormos is nestled between their slopes. These shady and relatively cool refuges contrast pleasantly with the ochre of the rocks and the golden beaches bathed in sun.