Ready to be enchanted by the charismatic allure of Hydra, a stunning gem nestled in the Saronic Gulf? You’ll be smitten by the quaint old harbor, peppered with cannon-armed battlements, magnificent mansions, and over 300 churches echoing religious sentiments of yesteryears.
Hydra has been, for decades, a cosmopolitan retreat, a magnet for Greeks and foreigners alike, who yearn for a gateway to the past and the charm of tradition. What sets Hydra apart, you ask? Well, the island takes you back to simpler times – it’s a car-free zone! You’ll find yourself meandering the cobblestone streets on foot, riding donkeys, or hopping onto sea taxis and traditional boats known as kaikia.
Adventoure-seekers and hiking enthusiasts, prepare to meet your paradise! Hydra’s got 80 kilometers of trails sprawling from one end of the island to the other, with four major routes signposted with wooden plaques.
Getting to Hydra is as fun as exploring the island itself. You can hop onto a dolphin boat from Piraeus, or alternatively, from Ermioni or Porto Heli. A stone’s throw away from Athens, Hydra makes for an exquisite destination, whether you’re planning a prolonged vacation or a quick weekend getaway. Be warned though, Hydra’s captivating beauty does come with a slightly elevated price tag, so make sure to book your accommodation early!
Best Places to Stay in Hydra
While the bustling capital, Hydra Town, is the only organized settlement on the island, there are two more delightful options you should consider: Mandraki and Vlychos. Allow me to guide you through these areas, so you can make an informed choice about the best area to stay in Hydra.
1. Hydra Town, best place to stay in Hydra for first-timers
Resting along the north-central coast, the radiant Hydra Town is built like an amphitheater around the harbor. As the sole organized settlement on the island, Hydra Town commands your attention with its cannons, battlements, and imposing stone mansions. As I mentioned earlier, this area exudes an atmosphere of a time gone by. If it’s your first visit to Hydra or you are keen on sightseeing, Hydra Town would be an excellent choice. But, if you are in search of quieter corners, stay tuned!
There’s an abundance of stunning sights to explore within the town. The Museum of History and Archives, the Byzantine Museum and many churches and monasteries are some significant attractions that you should put on your must-visit list.
The town’s narrow lanes offer an unforgettable exploration. Walking around, you’ll encounter charming shops, unique local architecture, and quaint boutiques lining the cobblestone harbor.
The town pulsates with life and offers an extensive range of amenities – from eclectic dining options to vibrant cafes and bars. There’s also a wide array of accommodations, ranging from luxury hotels to rented rooms and studios.
For those seeking the sun, the nearby Avlaki beach is a prime spot for a refreshing dip. Nestled beneath a lush forest with its shimmering turquoise waters, it’s a picture-perfect haven. Be mindful though, the beach is somewhat rocky.
Best Hotels in Hydra Town:
- (€€€€) Hydrea Exclusive Hospitality: This luxury 5-star hotel offers a variety of plush suites and rooms. Its terrace provides panoramic views over the harbor and town.
- (€€€) Hotel Leto Hydra: Another 5-star establishment offering opulent rooms, a cozy courtyard, and a bar. Wellness amenities include a gym, a jacuzzi, and a sauna.
- (€€€) Phaedra Hotel: Housed in a 19th-century building, this hotel offers traditional rooms and serves breakfast either in the dining room or on its top-floor terrace.
- (€€) Achilleas Pension: This charming guesthouse, situated just 150m from the harbor, offers beautifully maintained rooms complete with a well-equipped kitchen and an inner courtyard.
- (€€) Delfini Hotel: An affordable option right on Hydra’s harbor, Delfini offers simple, well-appointed rooms. Guests can enjoy complimentary coffee and tea at the in-house bar.
2. Mandraki: Experience the charm of Hydra's old port
Mandraki, a small cove located 2.5 kilometers away from Hydra town, is situated along the northern coast. This spot is easily accessible either on foot or by sea taxi, with boats operating every half hour.
Historically significant, this area served as Hydra’s old naval harbor, guarded by two small castles at its entrance. Today, only remnants of these fortresses remain, adding a touch of nostalgia to the area.
Mandraki boasts a sandy beach with shallow waters, perfect for a leisurely dip. While accommodation options are somewhat limited, those available are noteworthy, including a resort, villas, and holiday homes. If your budget allows, choosing to stay here would indeed be a spectacular decision.
For the more adventurous, a half-hour trek leads to the Church of Agia Paraskevi. Positioned atop a hill, it offers panoramic views of virtually the entire island.
Where to Stay in Mandraki:
- (€€€€) MANDRAKI BEACH RESORT: This splendid 5-star hotel offers luxurious rooms, a restaurant, and a private beach. An a la carte breakfast is included.
- (€€€) Villa Mandraki: A beautiful stone-built traditional villa that can accommodate up to 4 people. Just a 10-minute walk from the beach, it ensures a dreamy vacation.
- (€€€) Blue Horizon: A charming traditional holiday home with two bedrooms. It’s fully equipped and features a balcony with a view.
- (€) Tramontana: A traditional house offering a double bedroom and two sofa beds in the living room. It boasts a furnished veranda, a garden, and barbecue facilities.
3. Vlychos, best place to stay for families
Vlychos is a seaside village on the northwestern side of the island, located just 2 km southwest of Hydra town. Dominated by country houses, it is an enchanting place to spend time with family and kids.
In Vlychos, white houses with blooming courtyards stretch from the beach to the hill’s foot, giving the village a picturesque appeal. Search for the quaint chapels of Saint Charalambos, Saints Karpos and Papylus, and Agia Paraskevi. On the islet directly across, you will find the chapel of Saint John.
The beach at Vlychos, characterized by pebbles and crystalline waters, offers a scenic setting. It is well organized and child-friendly. The village hosts taverns serving fresh fish, seafood, and traditional dishes, providing an authentic culinary experience.
A bit further south, you will find Plakes Beach. This beautiful, organized beach also offers a few accommodation options.
Where to Stay in Vlychos:
- (€€€€) Four Seasons Hydra Luxury Suites: Luxurious suites located in Plakes Vlychos. The decor is captivating, and the hotel offers daily breakfast and an a la carte restaurant.
- (€€€) Hydra Erato: Just 100 meters from Plakes Beach, you’ll find Erato villas. Decorated with traditional furnishings, they are available for 2, 4, 6, or 9 people. This excellent choice provides all comforts.
- (€€€) HydraVista (Coral): A 2-person villa, it boasts modern design and contemporary decoration. It features a courtyard and free Wi-Fi.
Choosing between Hydra and Aegina for your next getaway near Athens can be a delightful dilemma. This guide presents a comprehensive view of what Hydra offers, providing key insights that can help you decide between Hydra’s timeless charm and Aegina’s rich historical attractions.
