Hydra: The epitome of timeless elegance

Located just a short boat ride away from Athens, Hydra is world-famous for its sophisticated atmosphere, neoclassical stone mansions and grand maritime heritage. A celebrated floating museum that must be included in every yacht charter’s itinerary.

In this stunning little paradise of the Saronic Gulf, the most common sight are the sailboats in the harbour and the donkeys (the primary method of transportation since no cars or motor vehicles are permitted) in the picturesque port’s cobblestoned streets. Hydra’s sophisticated beauty and 19th century maritime legacy (reflected on the restored mansions that are turned either in museums or boutique hotels) has attracted myriad foreign artists and intellectuals who seek inspiration and never end up leaving. The port is essentially the island’s only settlement. Therefore its thorough exploration, while also soaking up the atmosphere and discovering hidden treasures (museum’s, churches, artist’s workshops, Rafalia’s historic pharmacy), is your first and foremost activity. If you feel like stretching your legs, try walking from the picturesque fishing village of Kamini to Hydra Town or swimming at one of the small but excellent available beaches.

 

Must-Visit Attractions in Hydra

  • The Lazaros Kountouriotis Historical Mansion where furniture belonging to the Kountouriotis family, as well as 18th and 19th-century works of art are on display.
  • The Hydra Ecclesiastical and Byzantine Museum, housed in the old Monastery of the Dormition.
  • The Historical Archive–Museum of Hydra showcasing 19th-century paintings, 1821 Greek Revolution artefacts and historical manuscripts.
  • The DESTE Foundation for Contemporary Art exhibition space, in the island’s old slaughterhouse, that hosts fascinating exhibitions featuring significant foreign artists.
  • The 17th century Monastery of the Assumption of Virgin Mary that stands tall between the island’s 300 churches and six monasteries.
  • The celebrated festivals of Miaoulia (in remembrance of Admiral Andreas Miaoulis) on the last weekend of June and Kountouriotia ( a tribute to Hydra admiral Pavlos Kountouriotis) in late August.

Sail and Swim

Sunbathing and swimming at Hydra’s fine beaches. Among the most popular are stony Spilia, Ydroneta that lies directly beneath the cannons, pebbled Agios Nikolaos that is situated at the end of a pine-covered slope, emerald watered Bisti, Avlaki and Mandraki, the old military harbour and the island’s only sandy beach. Don’t sail away before visiting Limioniza with the trademark turquoise waters that is considered by many as the most beautiful beach on the island.

Ports & anchorages

The Hydra port is your first and foremost choice on the island. If it is too busy other options for your yacht charter include the port of Kameni, Molos, bay of Bali, the cove of Bisti, the bay of Agios Nikolaos, the bay of Mandraki and the bay of Limioniza.