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Hydra

Hydra

Located in the heart of the Argosaronic Gulf, Hydra is undoubtedly one of the most elegant and picturesque of the Greek islands! This gorgeous gem is only one hour from Athens and despite its proximity to the capital, visitors feel the change of rhythm, significant cultural heritage, and long-standing traditions from the moment they step foot on its port!

In Hydra, there are no high-rise buildings, no modern structures, no cars or motorbikes; there are about 500 donkeys as a means of public transportation, as well as boats and water taxis that can take you to the island's lovely beaches. Of course, you can always walk, and discover this chic island by foot. Much like a quiet sanctuary, apart from the occasional siren of the ship arriving at the harbour, there are no industrial noises, so visitors undoubtedly feel like they’ve entered a time bubble into the past.

The island has a relaxed, sophisticated atmosphere. Since the 1960s when Sophia Loren filmed 'Boy On a Dolphin' on Hydra the island became quite well known. Over the years, it has attracted many international jet setters and has become a haven for artists, such as Arthur Miller and Leonard Cohen thanks to its cultural appeal. Moreover, the local annexe of the Athens School of Fine Arts adds to the attraction among artists.

Hydra is also a very popular day cruise and weekend destination. The main town is built amphitheatrically on a slope, brimming with traditional stone mansions, quaint two-story houses, charming squares, narrow cobblestone streets, and many, many steps! The harbour is lined with coffee shops and local tavernas, as well as restaurants and some excellent art and jewellery stores.

Walk to the Kanoni, the small square adorned with a canon at the entrance of the natural port, and you will be rewarded with excellent views of the town. Directly below the square, lies the famous Hydronetta or Spilia, a rocky beach with concrete sun decks. This beach is usually pretty crowded since it is so close to town, and provides a lot of cliff-diving fun, often with local youths showing off their diving skills. About 1km from Hydra Town is Kamini, a small fishing village that is equally picturesque and much less crowded.

 Things to do:

●     Explore Hydra's Beaches
Although beaches aren't Hydra's best feature, the pebbly beaches of Vlychos and Mandraki, and the sandy beach of Agios Nikolaos, are worth visiting and are all accessible by foot or by boat. Also, Hydra's rocky coastline, rich in underwater reefs and caves, makes it ideal for scuba diving and other watersports.

●     Embrace the Fine Arts
Because of its artistic appeal, many art events, hip happenings, and innovative exhibitions take place in Hydra throughout the summer. One of the most significant art events is art collector Dakis Ioannou's yearly happening, the opening night of the 'Slaughterhouse' – the Hydra annexe of the DESTE Foundation – which attracts the elite of the global art scene. The island also boasts numerous museums, such as the Historical Archive, Museum of Hydra and the Ecclesiastical and Byzantine Museum.

●     Walk from Kamini to Hydra Town
For a beautiful route, walk from the picturesque fishing village of Kamini to Hydra town. What makes this walk so unique and worthwhile is the fact that it is off-the-beaten-track. Along the road, you will discover stunning mansion ruins, the parish church of John the Baptist and the Red House, and the former residence of Admiral Andreas Miaoulis which is now an art exhibition space.

●     Dine at One of Hydra's Renowned Restaurants
From fanciful delicacies to comfort food, the island offers excellent choices for culinary aficionados. Kondylenia in the village of Kamini is a charming taverna with superb fresh fish dishes. Omilos, the reopened Hydra Nautical Club, serves excellent gourmet food and delicious cocktails. Last but not least, Geitonikon, is an authentic Greek restaurant, offering excellent homemade food!

●     Have a Drink at the Legendary Peiratis Bar
Peiratis Bar along the harbour has been the ultimate meeting point in Hydra for the past 40 years and is still going strong. Come here to party till the early morning hours and enjoy a drink or two, you won't have to drive as there are no cars on the island!

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