After a midnight arrival on Kos and an overnight at the Matichari Bay hotel, we caught the 10am ferry to Kalymnos.

Absolutely rammed as the 9 o’clock had been cancelled due to a strike!

United with our spluttering red Suzuki Alto, and chaperoned by Mike and Heidi, we headed for the fleshpots of Masouri. Dump the gear at the apartment and then time for a few routes at Arginonta Valley (welcome shade from the sweltering sun, and newish routes on largely untouched rock).

A bit brittle in places, managed to snap off the outside of a well chalked pocket, but fun climbing with plenty of surprisingly incut holds.

Meanwhile, Helen got her trip off to a great start by onsighting her first 6b – Grigna. WooHoo!

Certainly enough to justify a beer or two.