Hydra is blissfully out of time. There is a sense of peace and calmness around this place you can hardly find on other Greek islands. A sort of strange tranquility, a different rhythm that somehow forces you to slow down and relax from the moment you step off the ferry. No traffic noise in the background. Cars and scooters are not allowed here so be prepared to take long walks or hire a horse if you want to explore more..
You probably know by now how much I love living on the Athens Riviera but when I have time I really enjoy discovering new places, especially those with a beautiful story behind.. Hydra has been on my bucket list for a while now and I am not too sure why I haven’t visited it so far since I moved to Greece. I was actually just there recently and spent three amazing days on this charming island and in all honesty, it is one of the most idyllic places I’ve ever been to!
There is something about the vibe, the narrow alleys, the cozy places, the arty shops and the warmth of the people that literally make you feel as if you were in a fairy tale or in some way, back in time in a beautiful movie.. It’s chic, full of old charm and it still retains something from that air of the 60’s.. Back in those days Hydra was known as a bohemian heaven for poets, writers and musicians and it has always been a place that attracted artist and personalities. After Sophia Loren filmed Boy on a Dolphin there in the fifties, the island gained a glamorous reputation and became a favourite holiday destination for many international celebrities, jet setters and Hollywood filmmakers. Even today, it still has a bohemian flair and is becoming incredibly popular for lovers of contemporary art. The cultural events and art expositions held there during the summer months gather tourists, artists and art collectors from all over the world every year.
The port is the centre and the capital of Hydra but you don’t fully realise how beautiful the island is until you start exploring the backstreets and the little alleyways up on the hills. The town is pretty small, you can discover it in just a few hours.
When to go
It’s true that in some months of the year Hydra gets very glamorous and cosmopolite but if you are looking for a touch of peace and want to feel the real magic of this place, I would suggest visiting it off the touristic season when it’s more laid back and relaxed. In April, May and September is just perfect. Just don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying during the high season the island is not charming, it’s just a bit overcrowded but definitely worth going if you want to experience that vibrant, summer atmosphere when the waterfront area is bustling with life and the harbour is lined with fancy super yachts.
What to do
Eat, drink, explore and relax..The island is an amazing place to enjoy silence, food, clean air and nature. Walk along the rocky coastline for the best views of the blue waters below.. Experience a sea tour by water taxis or you can take a romantic boat trip around the island at sunset and enjoy the dreamy scenery…
If you are the active kind take an escorted horse ride and discover parts of the island that are off the beaten track. Explore the wild beauty, see the monasteries and enjoy the breathtaking views on top of the mountains. It’s an amazing way to see the island and a truly unique experience!
Where to eat
When I am on holiday and I’m looking for a place to eat I usually find that the best ones are usually hidden away from the main streets where tourists go. But because of my short stay I didn’t have time to discover too many restaurants so here are just a few of my favourite spots..
Spilia – Great place for breakfast, lunch and lounging. Friendly stuff, hip vibe, cool music, splendid views..Get a table at the edge and enjoy a stunning view of the harbour.
Hydronetta is one of the best spots on the island for the morning coffee or sunset drinks with breathtaking sea views. Nice vibe, peaceful setting and cold drinks right on the cliffs edge. There is also a platform do dive into the sea so you can also go for a swim in the crystal clear blue waters then sip a refreshing cocktail under the umbrellas.
You can watch the sun go down into the sea here or you can do that while enjoying a fine dinner and a glass of wine at the Sunset Restaurant. The view over the sea from the tables is straight up magic!
Techne Restaurant : Think Mediterranean with a modern twist in a charming setting. Delicious food, exquisite presentation, nice service, dreamy location! Loved it!! I highly recommend!
Getting there
The fastest way to get to Hydra is by ferry from Athens. Flying Dolphins or Speed Cats depart daily from the port of Pireus, almost hourly in peak season. The trip lasts around 1.30 h. If you want to travel by car you’ll have to drive to Metochi, a tiny port opposite the island and from there you can cross to the other side, in Hydra in 20 minutes by taxi boat.
If you are planning a holiday to Greece this summer you need to make time to visit this island, even for one day. The place is magical, I already miss it and can’t wait to go back!!
xx
