Hydra

Hydra is one of the Saronic Islands of Greece, located in the Aegean Sea between the Saronic Gulf and the Argolic Gulf. It is separated from the Peloponnese by narrow strip of water.

Motor vehicles are banned and local transport is either water taxis or donkeys. Most people walk around the compact Hydra town, wandering around the shops and cafes along the waterfront crescent. On the streets leading up from there, mansions that once belonged to powerful shipping captains are crammed with period furniture and many have been turned into museums.

Local shops sell a range of handicrafts, fashion, jewellery, folk art and souvenirs.

Attractions in town include Assumption of the Virgin Mary, Agios Konstantinos (Church of St. Constantine) and the Historical Archives Museum of Hydra.

For avid walkers, there are many trekking paths which start from the town and lead to monasteries in the centre of the island. A map on the main quay details four marked, recognised long-distance routes.

Take a day trip to Spétses, the next and most remote member of the Argo-Saronic group, with equally imposing mansions, excellent dining and good beaches.

There are numerous choices for beaches around the island. Bisti Hydra is a small pebble beach which is run by the diving centre of Hydra. Activities available here include kayaking, snorkelling and scuba diving. Castello (Kamini) Beach is 10–15 minutes walk away (3 minutes by water taxi)and is located around 1km from Hydra Town just past Kamini Harbour. This pebble beach is situated just in front of the old armoury, recently restored as a restaurant and bar. The clean, clear water here is shallower as the beach shelves gently, making this a good spot for children and families.

Local specialities include an abundance of seafood options including freshly caught squid and scaly fish. Popular dishes include 'souvlaki' (kebab of grilled meat), 'paidakia' (grilled lamb chops with lemon, oregano, salt and pepper) and 'brazola hirini' (grilled pork chop, dusted with oregano, served with potatoes and lemon).

Hydra Port, in the middle of the northern coast, is where ships and boats dock on Hydra.

Transport options are limited to water taxis, donkeys and your own two feet as motor vehicles are not allowed on Hydra.