Highlights » Hydra

teeped in history this precious gem offers three hillside villages, waterfront cafes and a scattering of pretty coastline beaches and is a perfect sailing destination, especially in the summer months as groups of yachts and boats moor at the harbour in search of adventure.

Village life
Hydra Town stretches out over two rocky hills and is awash with winding streets, authentic alleyways and is abundant with wild cyclamen, poppies and olive trees. It remains quite untouched by the modern world and it has two other villages; Kaminia which is a small fishing hamlet offering a quieter alternative to the capital and rather more authentic housing lovely taverns, fish restaurants and shops. Vlichos is a small holiday village built in line with the traditional architecture of the whole island, its cafes and taverns are limited but compensated with stunning coastal views and quiet pebbled beach. 

Exploring the island
There’s plenty to do on Hydra, if that’s what you want, be it rewarding hikes with stunning coastal views; a visit to a historical mansion or church or a relaxing afternoon in one of the island’s waterfront cafes with only the smell of coffee and the sound birdsong for company
The harbour itself gets very warm, so if you want to explore it’s best to start early. If you want to stay around the port you will find supermarkets, plenty of restaurants and cafes, serving grilled meat, seafood and salads. Siesta-time is usually between 2-5pm, re-opening between 6-7pm, so it’s wise to plan your visit accordingly. The Pirates Bar is highly recommended and is situated right in the middle of the harbour, so as well as being open all day and into the evening, it’s very convenient.

The main historical place to visit is the Historical Archives Museum which is situated on the east-side of the harbour. This recently renovated mansion holds historical archives that were originally kept inside the Church of Assumption of Virgin Mary (which you can also visit) and includes manuscripts from the Greek Revolution, old maps, traditional costumes and other war relics.

If history isn’t your thing, you can always soak up the sun by the sea at one of the island’s rocky beaches, such as Spilia, which is located very near the main harbour. Its cement sanded sun-decks and azure blue ocean view lend to a very enjoyable afternoon.  The very popular Hydronetta is also nearby and consists of rocky waters and fabulous sun-decks, with the added benefit of music, cascading down the rock face from the local bar. You also have the chance to capture some stunning views and sunsets. Hydra Island is more renowned for its beautiful bays which are more suitable for swimming or diving rather than its beaches; but you can, if you wish, travel a bit further afield to Vlichos or Bisti for a beach experience and enjoy water sports and snorkelling too.