Discover Hydra

The Capital of Hydra

The Town of Hydra is the capital and harbour of Hydra located on the north side of the island. The village of Hydra is considered to be one of the most beautiful villages of the country that has been declared as a protected traditional settlement. The beautiful settlement has an authentic atmosphere and character with well preserved mansions and imposing public buildings that harmonize with the surrounding traditional houses. An interesting museum and numerous old mansions are worth visiting. Behind the seaside buildings, one can walk in the labyrinthine alleys to discover the hidden corners of the settlement.

The House of Lazaros Kountouriotis

The House of Lazaros Kountouriotis is located close to the old city of Hydra. Lazaros Kountouriotis was the largest ship owner of Hydra and the largest financier of the Revolution of 1821. His descendants donated the mansion to the Greek State and it was granted as the Historical and Ethnological Society of Greece. Today, it operates as a branch of the National Historical Museum.

The Miaoulia Festival

The Miaoulia Festival is one of the most remarkable events of the islands of Greece. The festival is dedicated to the military action of Andreas Miaoulis during the Greek War of Independence. Miaoulia hosts a series of celebratory cultural, folklore and musical events for a period of two weeks.  The main happening of Miaoulia is the representation of a small part of the battle during the night with visual effects of fireworks.

The Monastery of Prophet Elias

The Monastery of Prophet Elias is a male monastery located in a verdant area on the mountain slopes of Eros. The monastery was founded from some monks in 1813. During the Revolution of 1821, the monastery served as a prison and a place of exile for Theodoros Kolokotronis and other chieftains. Inside the monastery, one can admire a rich collection of old books. Within a short distance from the monastery, one can follow the trail to the highest mountain of Hydra with an altitude of 588 metres. There, you will have the opportunity to admire panoramic views over the island.

The Island of Dokos

The Island of Dokos is an isolated rocky island located between the southern coast of Peloponnese close to the islands of Hydra and Spetses. Dokos was first inhabited during the Neolithic period while there was a population increase during the Hellenistic Era owing to the evolution of navigation. Since ancient years, the island was considered to be as a strategic location as it is located adjacent to the island of Hydra and it is separated from Peloponnese from a narrow strait. Dokos was also used as a safe harbour for the fleet of Hydra during the Greek Revolution of 1821.On the east side of Dokos, one can find the remains of a Byzantine and Venetian Castle. Nowadays, there are a few residents on the island, most of whom are engaged in farming and fishing. What makes the island so special is that the most ancient shipwreck of the world (3rd millennium BC) was found in the sea area of the island in 1975 from Peter Throckmorton. The beautiful bay of Skinos is ideal for anchorage for sailing lovers while a family tavern operates at the bay.

The Church of Hypapante is one of the most historic churches of Hydra located inside the town. The church was built from Lazaro Demetrio Kokino in 1780 and belongs to the Holy Cathedral of the Assumption. It is worth visiting the church for the impressive wall paintings of the 18^th century.

The Monastery of Agia Efpraxia is a female monastery located in a close distance from the Monastery of Prophet Elias. The monastery is built in a verdant landscape of cypress and pine trees with spectacular views of the island. The religious site is worth a visit either by walking or by a ride with the donkeys.

The Monastery of Agios Nikolaos is located in Limnioniza. The monastery was constructed in the 17^th century while it was abandoned after the Second World War. However, the monastery was transformed into a nunnery in 1983. Today the church has been completely restored. It is worth visiting the monastery for its impressive icons and wall paintings of the 16^th century.

The Monastery of Prophet Elias is one of the most important religious monuments of Hydra located in a verdant area on the mountain slopes of Eros. The male monastery was founded from some monks in 1813. During the Revolution of 1821, the monastery served as a prison and a place of exile for Theodoros Kolokotronis and other chieftains. Inside the monastery, one can admire a rich collection of old books. Within a short distance from the monastery, one can follow the trail to the highest mountain of Hydra with an altitude of 588 metres. There, you will have the opportunity to admire panoramic views over the island.

The Monastery of Panagia Zourva is is one of the oldest monasteries of Hydra located on the eastern side of the island. The monastery was built in the 13^th century. During the Revolution of 1821, the monastery offered shelter to the soldiers. You can access the monastery by water taxi from the harbour of Hydra. Although the ascent is difficult, the views from the monastery are rewarding.

The Ecclesiastical Byzantine Museum is housed in the Cathedral of Hydra. One can admire relics, vestments, tributes and pictures of the 18^th century. One of the most important exhibits is the image of Virgin Mary “Rodo Amaranto” that dates back to 1774.

The Historical Archives Museum is housed in an impressive building of the town. The museum exhibits the historical archive of the history, culture and history of Hydra including paintings and objects from the 18^th century and a wide series of historical books from the 19^th century.

The House of Pavlos Kountouriotis is located on a verdant hillside on the west side of the harbour of Hydra. Pavlos Kountouriotis was one of the most important captains of the island. His house was bought from the Ministry of Culture and was transformed it into a museum in honour of the family of Kountouriotis.

The House of Lazaros Kountouriotis is located close to the old city of Hydra. Lazaros Kountouriotis was the largest ship owner of Hydra and the largest financier of the Revolution of 1821. His descendants donated the mansion to the state of Greece and it was granted as the Historical and Ethnological Society of Greece. Today, it operates as a branch of the National Historical Museum.

The Lighthouse of Zourva is located on the east side of the island. It was built in 1883. During the Second World War, the Germans destroyed the lighthouse and it was rebuilt in 1946.

The Merchant Marine Academy of Hydra is the oldest marine school in operation worldwide and a historical monument located in the town of Hydra. In 2012, the academy was awarded from Lloyd’s List of Greek Shipping Awards in the category Achievement in Education or Training.

The Pharmacy of Rafalia is a characteristic example of the traditional architecture of Hydra located at the town of Hydra. The building has retained the original furniture and equipment of the past. The pharmacy of Rafalia has been declared as a preserved historical monument.

The Sights of the Town of Hydra including the Statue of Andreas Miaoulis, the identical buildings of Gunpowder and Quarantine, the Bell Tower Clock of the Monastery of the Assumption of Virgin Mary, the Town Hall, the Memorial of Admiral Pavlos Kountouriotis, the Mansion of Emmanuel Tompazi, which operates as the School of Fine Arts, and the Statue of the Boy on a Dolphin.

The Island of Dokos is an isolated rocky island located between the southern coast of Peloponnese close to the islands of Hydra and Spetses. Dokos was first inhabited during the Neolithic period while there was a population increase during the Hellenistic Era owing to the evolution of navigation. Since ancient years, the island was considered to be as a strategic location as it is located adjacent to the island of Hydra and it is separated from Peloponnese from a narrow strait. Dokos was also used as a safe harbour for the fleet of Hydra during the Greek Revolution of 1821.On the east side of Dokos, one can find the remains of a Byzantine and Venetian Castle. Nowadays, there are a few residents on the island, most of whom are engaged in farming and fishing. What makes the island so special is that the most ancient shipwreck of the world (3^rd millennium BC) was found in the sea area of the island in 1975 from Peter Throckmorton. The beautiful bay of Skinos is ideal for anchorage for sailing lovers while a family tavern operates at the bay.

Episkopi is a remote agricultural village located on the southwest side of the island. It is a scenic settlement embellished with traditional houses and verdant olive groves. The village offers astonishing views of the island. Worth visiting sights include the Monasteries of Agia Efpraxia and Prophet Elias.

Kaminia is a fishing village located built on the mountain slopes of Eros on the north side of the island. The settlement has an atmosphere of tranquillity embellished with traditional houses. The charming marina of Kaminia provides the village with delicious fresh fish. Here, you can enjoy beautiful views over the island of Spetses.

Hydra Town is the capital and harbour of Hydra located on the north side of the island. The village of Hydra is considered to be one of the most beautiful villages of the country that has been declared as a protected traditional settlement. The beautiful settlement has an authentic atmosphere and character with well preserved mansions and imposing public buildings that harmonize with the surrounding traditional houses. An interesting museum and numerous old mansions are worth visiting. Behind the seaside buildings, one can walk in the labyrinthine alleys to discover the hidden corners of the settlement.

Vlihos is a charming seaside village located on the north side of the island. The settlement is embellished with houses of the traditional architecture, known for its magnificent views over the coast of Peloponnese. The sole tavern of the area is known for the delicious specialties of the Greek cuisine.

Spot: Bastions, North Hydra

Spot: Monastery of Agia Efpraxia, North Hydra

Spot: Statue of Andreas Miaoulis, North Hydra

Spot: Village of Kaminia, North Hydra

Boat Trip: The Island of Poros has a mysterious combination of the rugged landscapes of the Argolis with the island beauty of the Saronic Gulf. It may sound strange, however the island of Poros is build on two islands of different geological formations connected from a narrow strip of land, Spheria and Calabria, which was formed after the eruption of the volcano of Methana. Spheria lies on the crater of the volcano unfolding the beautiful town of Poros while Calabria is sedimentary with a rugged mountainous terrain surrounded from beautiful pine trees. Poros has its own distinctive beauty, which is revealed in the eyes of the travellers boasting a series of natural beauties of scenic villages and idyllic seashores surrounded from verdant pine forests. The island managed to be kept for decades at the top of the most traditional character settlements that retains its original features embellished with its lush green vegetation and its insurmountable scenery.

Boat Trip: The Island of Spetses is a beautiful island of mysterious aromas embellished from the jewel of the island, the Posidonion Hotel adorned and the beautiful square with the statue of Laskarina Bouboulina. It is an island with great cultural and naval tradition accompanied from neoclassical architecture nobility, which is waiting for you to discover it. And the journey begins from the charming town of Dapia with its unique pebbled floor courtyards and its beatiful “balcony” overlooking the endless blue of the Saronic Gulf. Walking along the seafront cobblestone promenade, you will be enchanted from the cannons decorating the chapel of Agios Mamas, the beautiful white and blue seafarer houses of Agios Nikolaos, the romantic chaises riding at the waterfront, the traditional shipyards of Palio Limani and the endless view of the fishing caiques sailing from the old harbour. Lose your way amongst the narrow alleyways behind the majestic beauty of the seaside promenade, and discover the discreet charm of the whitewashed houses with blue windows and red tiled roofs adorned from flowery courtyards of bougainvillea and pebbled mosaics transforming your promenade in an adventure overlooking an unexpected view to the sea.

Diving: The varied coastline of Hydra offers numerous exciting explorations for diving enthusiasts. Reefs, sponges and fish are the most intriguing elements of the marine life of the island. One will find a diving center at the beach of Bisti.

Hiking: Hydra hosts numerous paths ideal for lovers of hiking. (1) One of the most beautiful routes is the cobblestone route that starts after Spilia of Hydra town, passing through the area of Avlaki leading to the charming harbor of Kaminia. (2) Another interesting route includes the one starting from the street of Andreas Miaoulis leading to the area of Kala Pigadia. From there, continue on the wide cobblestone street adorned from the chapel of Agios Konstantinos. After walking towards the cement street of Tsantili, you will ascend a dense pine forest and you will find signs leading to the Church of Prophet Elias. Continue this route, and the views of the endless blue will reward you. Discover more from the Official Website of Hydra.

Kayaking: The opportunity to practice kayak in Hydra is definitely an unforgettable experience. You will have the chance to admire spectacular rocky formations and the beautiful beaches. One will find a kayak center at the beach of Bisti.

Sailing: Hydra is a paradise for sailing enthusiasts. Sailing around the island is fully recommended. Ideal anchorage spots include the main harbour of Hydra. However, the main problem is that it is usually crowded and it is difficult to find a place in peak days. The harbour of Hydra is protected from all weather except the north winds. Another popular mooring spot is the bay of Mandraki owing to the beautiful surroundings. Mandraki is well protected from the south, southwestern and northeastern winds. Also, the bay of Molos is an ideal spot for anchorage that is protected from all weather conditions except the southwestern winds. Agios Nikolaos is considered to be the most picturesque anchorage of Hydra that is protected from all winds except the southwestern. One can anchor on the western cove.  At last, the ones who seek for isolation and relaxation can anchor at the isle of Dokos. The large bay of Skintos found on the north provides shelter from all winds.

Agios Nikolaos is pebbled beach with crystal clean waters and pine trees located close to the beach of Bisti. The beach is ideal for spearfishing. Agios Nikolaos is well organized with numerous amenities including sunbeds and umbrellas. Access is possible by excursion boats operating from the harbour of Hydra.

Avlakia is pebbled cove with crystal clear waters. The beach is located on the road after Spilia, where you have to climb down the ladder to reach the beach.

Bisti is a pebbled beach with emerald waters located after the beach of Molos. The beach is well organized with umbrellas and sunbeds and offers canoeing rental.

Kaoumithi is sandy and pebbled beach surrounded from pine trees located after the bay of Molos. It is a naturist beach with beautiful landscapes and it is accessible either from the coastal road leading to the south side of the island or with excursion boats running from the town of Hydra.

Limioniza is a secluded pebbled beach with crystal clear waters. The beach is considered to be the most beautiful beach of the island located on the northeast of the island. It is accessible either excursion boats running from the town of Hydra or by donkeys from the town of Hydra.

Mikro Kamini is a charming fishing cove with deep blue waters located in the village of Kamini. The beach stretches in front of the tower of Castello and offers sunbeds.

Nisiza is a deserted beach located in an area of verdant vegetation overlooking the endless blue. The surrounding area offers beautiful natural sceneries. The beach is accessible with a water taxi from the town of Hydra or by donkey.

Molos is a deserted sandy beach with crystal clear waters located after the beach of Palamida. It is an ideal place for relaxation and it is accessible either with an excursion boats running from the town of Hydra or by a hiking path towards the beach of Molos.

Coffee Corners

Anemoni: Pastries, Hydra Town

Bandera: Coffee, Hydra Town

Gonia: Coffee, Hydra Town

Hydra Corner: Coffee, Hydra Town

Isalos: Coffee, Hydra Town

Spilia: Coffee, Hydra Town

To Stahi: Traditional Pastries, Hydra Town

The Cool Mule: Ice Cream, Hydra Town

Gastronomic Delights

Enalion: Seafood, Vlihos

Gitoniko : Seafood, Hydra Town

Kai Kremidi: Greek Cuisine, Hydra Town

Kontylenia: Greek Cuisine, Hydra Town

Omilos: Greek Cuisine, Hydra Town

Paradosiako: Ouzo and Meze, Hydra Town

Pirofani Greek Cuisine, Kaminia

Psaropoula : Seafood, Hydra Town

Xeri Elia: : Greek Cuisine, Hydra Town

Cocktails Inspirations

Amalour : Cocktails, Hydra Town

Pirate Bar: Cocktails, Hydra Town

Papagalos : Cocktails, Hydra Town

Spilia Beach Club: Cocktails, Hydra Town

Ydroneta : Cocktails, Hydra Town

The local products of the island include the almond sweets of amigdalota. The sweets of amigdalota of Hydra are amongst the most famous in the country.

The island of Hydra does not have any particular gastronomic tradition. However, you should definitely taste the fresh fish and seafood of the island.

Every spring, the Sailing Regatta of Hydra is organized from the Racing Club of Greece.

Every summer, the Hydrama Theater and Arts Centre organizes a series of cultural special events including theatre performances, musical concerts and art exhibitions.

Every July, the International Festival of Marionette takes place in Hydra.

Every June, the Miaoulia Festival takes place in Hydra. The event is dedicated to the military action of Andreas Miaoulis, one of the most important figures of the Greek War of Independence, hosting a series of celebratory special events including exhibitions and concerts for a period of two weeks.  The main happening of Miaoulia is the representation of the battle of Hydra accompanied with visual effects of fireworks.

Every 24^th of June, the traditional feast in honor of the eight saint protectors of Hydra takes place in Hydra.

Every 22nd of August, the Kountouriotia Festival takes place in Hydra.  The event is dedicated to the military action of Pavlos Kountouriotis, the liberateor of the Aegean and the first president of the Republic of Greece, hosting a series of speeches, exhibitions, book representation and sport events for a period of six days. On the day of the anniversary of the death of Pavlos Kountouriotis, a memorial service takes place at the Holy Cathedral of the Assumption of Virgin Mary.

Every October, the Rebetiko Conference is held in Hydra. Rebetiko is a music genre associated with Greek Underground that originated from the neighbourhoods of Piraeus and Thessaloniki. The conference is usually held in the theatre of Melina Merkouri.

Every October, the Sailing Regatta is organized from the Historical Yacht Club of Greece in Hydra.

Every 14^th of November, the religious feast in honour of the local saint of Agios Konstantinos takes place in Hydra.

Mythology

The island of Hydra is not associated with any myths.

History

Archaeological finding show that Hydra was first inhabited from the Mycenaean. During the 15^th century, the inhabitants of the island started to move in the mountainous areas of Hydra in order to escape from numerous pirate invasions and the attacks of the Ottomans. In 1460, Hydra welcomed refugees from Albania, Asia Minor, Epirus, Crete, Euboea and Kythnos including refugees from Peloponnese who escaped from the Russian-Turkish War during the 18^th century. Owing to the lack of water of the island, the Turks had little interest on Hydra throughout the Ottoman domination. However, Hydra began to acquire a powerful naval fleet in the 17^th century, which experienced a decline with the plague of 1792. The highly developed commercial fleet of Hydra and its extensive trading network with Greece and foreign countries including America, France and Spain made the island prosperous and powerful during the 18^th century, which reached its peak during the Napoleonic Wars with the creation of the Merchant Marine Academy that monopolised the sea transport through the Mediterranean. The Hydriots decided to fortify the harbour with bastions and cannons, as they were afraid for attacks from the Ottoman fleet throughout the Greek War of Independence, whereas many wealthy sea captains from Hydra used vessels as worships in order to help the Greek War of Independence, including Lazaros Koundouriotis and Andreas Miaoulis. After the Second World War, the economy of Hydra experienced a decline owing to restrictions of financial assistance to the sponge fishing enterprises. However, Hydra became a centre of the art world for many artists in the 1950s.

By Boat (47 Nautical Miles): Hydra is accessible from the harbour of Piraeus. The journey usually lasts one hour and thirty minutes. Hydra is also connected with the islands of Poros and Spetses. Book your tickets with FerriesinGreece.com !

By Car (180 Kilometres): Hydra is accessible by car. The journey usually lasts two hours and thirty minutes. Following the Attica Road and then the National Road of Athens- Corinth, you will go left after the Isthmus of Corinth towards Epidaurus (Exit B – Corinth – Epidaurus). From there, you will follow the newly opened road until you reach the area of Kalloni. In fifteen minutes, you will reach the village of Galatas across the island of Poros. The road is an extension of the National Road. From there, you will follow the coastal road until the village of Metohi. From Metohi, there are ferryboats that operate on a daily basis to the island of Hydra.