Picturesque, aristocratic, cosmopolitan. Three words that describe Hydra to the fullest.
To be honest, Hydra was never in my top destinations list until this year. We decided to spend 3 days there before we visit Spetses, a nearby island, for the wedding of our friends. But they say love comes when you least expect it and this is what happened to me. Hydra stole my heart from the very beginning.
Only 2 hours away from Piraeus port by ferry and it totally got me by surprize when I found out it’s a 100% car-free island. The narrow, up hill, cobblestone streets can only be accessed by donkeys! Feels like you travelled back in time where the pace of life slows down and you appreciate the beauty around you.
Since decades it has been the getaway vacation spot of worldwide famous artists, actors and celebrities. Pablo Picasso, the Rolling Stones, Onassis, Callas are only few of them who have fallen for this island. Famous actress, Sophia Loren, described it as ”one of the most beautiful places in the world”, ”a place I will never forget” after she spent time shooting the movie ”Boy on a dolphin”.
Despite its size, little Hydra has also produced influential aristocrats, war heroes and political leaders who played a decisive role during the Greek revolution. Thus, this place is full of history and even small museums if you are into it.
Although Hydra’s beaches are not to get excited about, I mean in comparison to the rest of the Greek islands, there are enough places for swimming and relaxation.
-The beach bar Spilia (it means cave) is a must go. There is no sand and you can only dive from the rocks. You get a magical view of the whole port, chill out music and delicious snacks. A place where you can spend hours watching the water taxis and the sailing boats passing by.
–Bisti beach has crystal clear blue water,white pebbles and pine trees. It can be only reached by boat or water taxi. There are daily scheduled departures from the port.
Sunsets are a big part of Hydra’s charm. Don’t miss the chance to watch them while enjoying your dinner :
–Sunset Restaurant is our pick for great sea food and jaw dropping view of the sunset.