Hydra - Saronic Gulf

Hydra is an island with many admirers, among the international community of writers, actors and artists in general. Perhaps because of its unique charm, or perhaps because of its rare combination of simplicity and sophistication.

Hydra's rich physical environment, traditional island scenes and cosmopolitan atmosphere are integral to the island's natural beauty. Perfect for those keen on walking and exploring nature; given its mild climate, walking is a joy all year round. With diverse degrees of difficulty, the ten paths presented here should satisfy even the most discriminate adventurer.

You can walk, under the shade of grapevines, on its narrow cobblestone streets, that lace around the old houses, following their wild climb, almost to the top of the steep hills. Or you can just rest, lying on a rock by the sea. No matter what, Hydra will charm you just the same. Hydra, with its historically - preserved architecture, its numerous churches, and its donkey transportation, is one of the most picturesque islands.

You can stroll the paths easily and at your own pace. All you need to do is to follow the wooden signs that will lead you to breathtaking destinations. On your journey, challenge yourself by trying to identify the trees and flowers on your way. Hydra has an abundant variety of plants, trees and mammals to view.

You will notice wild flowers, like the rare 'spentzes' or cyclamen and poppies. You can see pine, cypress and olive trees. Many birds also live here, including partridges, quails, or migrate birds. There are also many rabbits, cats, wild goats even reptiles and amphibians that have found a home in Hydra. Explore the path. Enjoy your walk. Embrace your journey.

Places to visit

Hydra Main Harbor - If you want to tie in the main harbor I suggest you get in early, especially on the weekends as it is a favorite for the Greeks. Care must be taken when they are N-NW winds and you should opt for the N mole. Due to the harbor is overcrowded in the summer it is usually for yachts to be three out from the quay. Crossed anchors are a common event so don't be surprised. Water is available on the quay, as well as provisioning.

Mandraki - This bay is located at the East part of Hydra. It is a nice bay for a swim There are taverns ashore. The bay is fairly sheltered except to northerly winds.

Petassi - There are several small coves in the area that can be used.

Ag. Nikolaos - This is a beautiful bay with nice surroundings and crystal clear water for a swim but can only be used in calm weather.

Nisis Dhokos - A barren island SW end of Hydra. The winds in the channel vary and usually die down. A safe anchorage which is well protected.

History of Hydra Island

Hydra was already settled in Mycenaean times, but was a place of no importance until the 18th c. In the 15th c. and again in 1770, after the revolt in the Morea, Albanian refugees made their home on the island, and as a result of their efforts - in trade and shipping, but also in piracy - it became prosperous and wealthy. During the War of Greek Independence the Hydriots converted their trading vessels into warships and met a large proportion of the cost of the war. The island has now reverted to its original unimportance.

Ports of Hydra Island

The little town of Hydra (pop. 2500), climbs picturesquely up the slopes of the hills round its sheltered harbour on the north coast of the island. It is now a favourite resort, particularly painters, and intellectuals, who give the town its particular aspect and atmosphere. On the quay is the old Conventual Church of the Panyia (17th c.), with a beautiful cloister. On the other side of the harbour are the imposing mansions of early 19th c. ship owners and merchants, including the houses of Admiral Lakovos Tombazis (now occupied by an outstation of the Athens Academy of Art) and Dimitrios Voulgaris.

One such mansion houses a training school for the merchant navy. The plain white and sometimes colour-washed houses of the town on the slopes above the harbour are rather Cycladic in type. Above the town to the west are the ruins of a medieval castle, and lower down are fortifications built during the War of Independence. The Hydra harbour can get quite crowded in the summer months, ten ferries a day plus the odd cruise ship anchored off make it a very tight squeeze altogether. Moreover, anchors are often fouled by other anchor chains and holding is in some places very poor. The best tavernas can be found further up in town.