Hydra is a lovely island which belongs to the Saronic islands, located just off the Greek mainland. It stands as one of the most charming Greek islands and as you read on, you will know why!
According to archaeological evidence, Hydra has been inhabited since the prehistoric times. Over the course of its history, it has been depopulated and repopulated due to several invasions. It was largely developed during the Byzantine era, with numerous buildings and monasteries. Then it went under the Venetians for a few centuries before being taken over by the Ottomans, when it flourished as a commercial port. Hydra also joined the Greek Revolution in the early 19th century and supplied around 150 ships for the cause.
Today, Hydra is a popular getaway from Athens and a leading tourist destination in Greece given its authentic Greek style and scenic landscapes.
A unique feature of Hydra is that it is free from all kinds of motor vehicles apart from garbage trucks. Interesting, right! So if you want to go around the island, you can choose to walk, go on a donkey, horse or mule or take a water taxi. The best way to explore Hydra is by going on a one of a kind donkey back tour! You can choose tours that range from an hour to eight and explore the numerous monasteries, beaches and villages of the island.
The charming town of Hydra, which is also the island’s capital and main port, is spread over hill slopes surrounding its port. It is filled with traditional tall mansions set on cobbled streets, with their colourful doors and windows and beautiful bougainvillea flowers everywhere! Another interesting point to note is that any new construction is required by law to follow the same traditional architectural style of the island.
The crescent-shaped port area of Hydra is always buzzing with activity and is ringed by souvenir shops, cafes, tavernas and bars. This is the best place to spend your evenings, watching the mesmerising sunset and the deep waters reflecting bright shades of orange. Around the port, you will also see two bastions located on either side which were used to protect the island from the Turks.
From the port of Hydra Town, walking trails will take you to the picturesque fishing villages of Kaminia and Vlychos. Kaminia is an authentic Greek village with a peaceful vibe. Its traditional houses are spread over the slopes of small hills and you will find a few tavernas which serve excellent fresh seafood. Continuing from Kaminia, you will reach the resort village of Vlychos which offers grand views of the Peloponnese coast. Here, you will find good beaches like Vlychos Beach, Plakes Vlichos and a little further, the Molos beach.
Hydra has hundreds of churches and monasteries to choose from, and here are some of the best ones.
The Byzantine-style Church of the Assumption (also known as the Kimisis Tis Theotokou Cathedral) is the main church in Hydra, located near its port. It was founded by a nun in the 17th century and its marble bell tower is quite popular. This complex also houses the Ecclesiastical Museum.
The Prophet Elias Monastery from the 19th century is located on the highest peak in the island, Mount Eros. It is a popular hiking destination and has great views of the town and sea. Near this monastery, you will find the 19th century Monastery of Agia Efpraxia, which is inhabited by nuns and features a singular simple architecture.
In the Madraki Bay region, around 3km east of Hydra Town, you will find several monasteries like the Monastery of Agia Triada, Monastery of Agios Nikolaos and Monastery of Agia Matrona.
The Historical Archives Museum is set in a stone building located near the port. You can find historical archives like maps, manuscripts and books related to the island, which were initially kept in the Church of the Assumption. Along with these, it also displays naval artefacts, traditional costumes, paintings and relics from Greek independence and the world wars.
Ecclesiastical Museum or Cathedral Museum is a part of the Church of the Assumption and displays artefacts from the monastery which date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. It includes robes of monks, holy scriptures, jewellery, holy vessels and Byzantine icons.
Koundouriotis is an 18th-century mansion turned museum and has an impressive interior. Greek paintings, furniture, jewellery, traditional clothes and carvings which belonged to the Koundouriotis family are on display.
The beautiful beaches of Hydra are free from huge crowds and allow you to soak in its scenic surroundings at your own pace. Kaminia Beach, located a kilometre away from Hydra town has a pebbled shore lined with tavernas, cafes and restaurants, and is ideal for families. Spilia is a small rocky cliff which is a popular diving spot located close to Hydra town. From here you can walk to the secluded cove of Avlaki Bay which is one of the island’s least crowded beaches and perfect for swimming.
Vlychos beach, located in the Vlychos fishing village is popular for its clear blue waters and serene vibe. You can reach the beach by walking from Hydra town or taking a water taxi from there. Agios Nikolaos is one of the most deserted beaches on the island, perfect for anyone who wants to relax. It has a sandy shore, beautiful aquamarine blue waters and a few cafes. Mandraki, Bisti and Molos are a few other good beaches.
Hydra stands frozen in time, preserving its traditional Greek elements and thus creating an idyllic setting to explore. Hydra is truly one of a kind, with an ancient, aesthetic and romantic vibe, and an experience that will leave you with cherished memories forever.
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