It is an island where great figures of the Greek revolution and public life came from. An example of architecture and aesthetics is the city of Hydra with its picturesque alleys and mansions, built amphitheatrically around the port.
Hydra is an island, located a short distance from the southeastern coast of Argolis, west of the entrance to the Saronic Gulf. Historical island, known for the naval struggle against the Turks, in the Renaissance of 1821. In the modern era, it is one of the most developed touristic islands of the Mediterranean, with a strong cosmopolitan character.
Hydra is a rocky mountainous island with low vegetation, while in very few places there are small pine forests. Also, the characteristic is the lack of water, which is transported by hydrofoil from the mainland of the Peloponnese.
During antiquity, Hydra was occasionally inhabited. Finds from this period (1700-1100 BC) come from the area of today's Vlychos. In recent years, Hydra was first inhabited around the middle of the 15th century, when fugitives pursued by the Ottomans crossed over to the almost deserted island until then.
The settlement wave that will liven up Hydra residentially is at the end of the 16th century when large families such as the Kountouriotis, Tombazis, Vokou later Miaoulis families arrived on the island, but also many others who consider the dry rock of Hydra, the perfect refuge from the destructive consequences of military conflicts, mainly between Turks and Venetians. The inhabitants of the island took special care of the education of their children, and the establishment of the first Greek Naval School in 1745 in Hydra in the area of Kamini was aimed there. On the night of March 27th to 28th, the big bell of the Monastery gives the signal and the people of Hydra pour into the streets with enthusiasm, the Revolution takes root for good on the island.
The wild beauty of the island could only be combined with dreamy coves, gray rocks with caves, and pebbly beaches - masterpieces of nature with wonderful waters.
Another cluster of rock slabs and steps below the bar of the same name is wedged into the rocks. It is located just a few meters after the Cave and has crystal clear deep waters and a spectacular view of the sunset.
Avlaki is a small beach with pebbles and a small concrete surface on the rocks. It has wonderful waters and easy access on foot, about 10 minutes from the port of Hydra.
A cluster of rock slabs and steps on the outer side of the harbor. Visitors have the opportunity to swim and dive in crystal clear deep waters. Access on foot. The area offers coffee and food options.
Organized beach with pebbles and crystal-clear waters, next to the small harbor of the settlement of the same name, Kamini. Access is also easy by foot from the port of Hydra (about 15-20 minutes), following the coastal road. Food and lodging options are available.
Organized beach with gray pebbles and crystal-clear waters. Access is by excursion boats (5 minutes) but also on foot, about 40 minutes from the port, following the coastal road. Food and lodging options are available.
At a distance of 7 minutes by boat from the port of Hydra is Plakes beach, fully organized with crystal clear blue waters. It has a small pebble and offers food and accommodation possibilities. Access is by excursion boats, on regular routes.
Mandraki is located to the left of the port, inside a small closed bay. The beach is sandy and can be accessed by boat or on foot (about 20-30 minutes) from the port of Hydra. The area offers opportunities for coffee, food, and accommodation.
The southernmost bay of the island, Bisti, is an organized beach with green-blue waters next to a lush forest. Ideal for snorkeling and diving. Access is by excursion boats that run daily regular routes.
Agios Nikolaos is located on the southwest coast of the island. The beach has light-colored pebbles and wonderful blue waters. It is one of the largest beaches on the island, organized and suitable for swimming and sunbathing. Access is by excursion boats that run daily regular routes.
Self-Guided & Easy Hike
Even if you are not a fan of hiking, don't miss the opportunity to cross the paved coastal road that connects the city of Hydra with Kamini. The route lasts only 15 minutes and with a view of the deep blue sea, you won't even know when you will find yourself in the port of Kamini. A great alternative for those who want to combine the picturesque and quiet. There are no souvenir shops here. However, there are a few good tavernas famous for their fresh fish as well as a small organized beach with pebbles.
A small path starting from Kamini will lead you after 20 minutes to Vlychos. It is a holiday resort with cottages that follow the traditional architecture of the island. An ideal choice for those looking for peace and the magic of nature. Access is also by sea from the city of Hydra, with regular routes. In the area, you will find an organized beach and options for great traditional food, coffee, and accommodation.
Duration: 50 minutes
Crossing the coastal road from the city of Hydra we reach the settlement of “Kamini” where there is a natural harbor, a beautiful beach with pebbles, and traditional tavernas. Taking the dirt coastal path, we reach the coastal settlement of “Vlychos”. Passing by, we will come across a 17th-century bridge of unique beauty. After 20 minutes of walking, we reach the seaside area of “Palamida”. There is the Voulgari Mansion and the house where, according to tradition, Kapudan Pasha lived. Near the beach of Palamida there is a shipyard for the repair and maintenance of boats. Finally, there are many chapels in the area.
Route: 2 hours
Our route follows the route Hydra-Vlycho-Palamida. Making a stop at the church of Agia Marina, the visitor will be delighted and refreshed by the wonderful view. Arriving in Episkopi we will see beautiful traditional houses, olive groves, and fields. This area is the most famous hunting ground on the island. Continuing towards the Nisiza area, the road becomes stonier. However, it is worth a little extra effort, because the visitor will have the opportunity to enjoy one of the most beautiful beaches on the island.
It is under the sun, a little less than 70 kilometers south of Athens, like a rock thrown in the middle of the Argosaronic Gulf; popular among the Athenians for the perfect romantic getaway or a quiet and relaxing weekend in a soothing place of such beauty.
6 min read
Of all the little islands in the Saronic gulf, this one is kept off the tourist map as an Athenian’s little secret; a small island just 35 kilometers from Piraeus, covered easily with a 40-minute Flying Dolphin (hydrofoil) ride or a 75-minute trip with a ferry.
6 min read
