Go to the Beach

Despite its small size, Hydra Island is home to a number of beautiful beaches that will allow you the chance to relax under the warm Greek sun and cool off in the refreshing water. Kamini Beach is a good option for those traveling with children. The beach, located between Hydra Town and Vlichos, has tavernas nearby making this a convenient beach for a day trip. Hydronetta Beach will give you a different experience than other beaches on Hydra Island. Music is played at Hydronetta Beach. The atmosphere at this beach is laid back and fun. Enjoy lounging on the sun beds that have been created from concrete. Other beaches on Hydra include: Avlaki, Spilia, and Vlichos.

Hike Mount Eros

When spending time on Hydra Island, a hike is the perfect addition to the day’s activities. A hike of Mount Eros will take about 4 hours, but it is a priceless experience. This hike can be done as a monastery walk, which leads you to the Profitis Ilias Monastery. The path will lead you to a sign directing you to Mount Eros. You can also begin this hike from Hydra center. In addition to the beautiful views along the way, you can bird watch and admire the wildflowers that grow in the area.

Visit a Monastery

To satisfy your love of history, you will want to visit the monasteries of Hydra Island. The Monastery of Panagia Zouvra was built during the 13th century making it one of the oldest of the island. You can get to this monastery by taking a water taxi and then climbing 645 steps. Once at the Monastery of Panagia Zouvra, you will also be treated to an amazing view of the surrounding area.

Go Horseback Riding

Whether you are an experienced horseback rider or it’s a brand new experience for, this is something you won’t want to miss when spending time on Hydra. Depending on your experience level and time allotted for horseback riding, there are a few companies on the island that offer various tours. Horseback riding on Hydra Island offers the opportunity see villages, landmarks, and beaches from a unique point of view.

Visit Lazaros Kondouriotis Museum

The Lazaros Kondouriotos Museum is housed in an old mansion that faces the harbor adding to the experience of your visit with the view it offers. The mansion was home to a shipowner by the name of Lazaros Kondouriotos. The museum now serves as a wonderful example of 18th century Hydriot mansions and architecture. Inside you can view exhibits that include costumes, jewelry, paintings, and furniture.

Spending time on Hydra Island will give you many adventures and experiences. Explore the history and nature of this beautiful Greek island.

The post Best Things to Do on Hydra Island appeared first on .

Because Hydra is an easy day trip from Piraeus, there are a lot of people here during the daytime, but they leave by the time the last ferry departs the island to bring them back to the mainland. So, what brings people here for the day or a more extended trip? Here’s a list of the things you absolutely need to do while here:

Take a Tour

One of the best ways to get an overview of all the things there are to do on Hydra is to take a tour. However, since there are no automobiles on the island, your tour will have to take place by foot, donkey, or horseback. You can take a simple foot tour of Hydra Town or take a guided tour on a donkey or horse, which will enable you to see more of the island. Once you arrive on the island, ask around for the best tour options. Although they are all fairly easy to find (many tour companies advertise at the port), some may deliver a better experience than others.

Go to Saint Nicholas Beach

Are you looking for a convenient beach that is worth spending the day at? Many people take a day trip to Hydra for the sole purpose of visiting Saint Nicholas Beach! Although you will need to take a water taxi to get to the beach, the 30 minute trip is well worth it. The beach is a bit secluded, but it is a perfect spot for relaxing and swimming. Since it is a bit off the beaten track, it’s also not very crowded. There is, however, a beach bar and taverna that you can lounge at after you’re done sitting on the beach itself.

Visit the Lazaros Koundouriotis Mansion

The Lazoros Koundouriotis Mansion is a great example of how people lived on Hydra a hundred years ago and earlier. Now a museum, the mansion is conveniently located near the port. Since this museum also has a low entrance fee, it is well worth the hike up the hill in order take a look at some of the exhibits. Lazaros Koundouriotis was the brother of Georgios Koundouriotis, a hero in the Greek War for Independence.

Hike Mount Eros

If you have about four hours or more once you are on the island, you should take the time to hike Mount Eros. Many visitors report that it takes 4-5 hours when walking at a moderate pace and stopping to take pictures. The effort, however, is worth it because the views are amazing.

While on the island of Hydra, you don’t want to miss doing these activities!

The post What to Do While Visiting Hydra appeared first on .

Monastery of Prophet Elias

The Monastery of Prophet Elias is located on the slopes of Mt. Eros. Founded in 1813, the monastery is one of the most important religious monuments in Hydra. The Monastery of Prophet Elias is an all male monastery that served as a prison and place of exile for Theodoros Kolokotronis during the Revolution of 1812.

Inside the monastery, you will be able to view a collection of old books. Near the Monastery of Prophet Elias you will find a trail that leads to the highest mountain of Hydra. If you hike this trail, you will be rewarded with a wonderful panoramic view of the island and surrounding areas.

Monastery of Panagia Zourva

Built in the 13th century, the Monastery of Panagia Zouvra is one of the oldest monasteries on the island of Hydra. During the Revolution of 1821, the monastery was a place of shelter for soldiers. The Monastery of Panagia Zouvra is accessible by water taxi from the harbor of Hydra. Once there you can climb the 645 steps or walk up by land. The view once you reach the top will be well worth the slightly strenuous ascent.

Monastery of Agia Efpraxia

Built in 1865, the Monastery of Agia Efpraxia is a female monastery that is located near the Monastery of Prophet Elias. The landscape surrounding the monastery is green with cypress and pine trees. The view from the location also offers wonderful views of the island. The main church of the monastery has simple architecture.

A few nuns live at the monastery today. They take care of the monastery and run an embroidery workshop. You can get to the Monastery of Agia Efpraxia by donkey from Town, which is a fun experience itself. If you prefer to walk, it will only take you 40 minutes from Town to the monastery.

Monastery of Agios Nikolaos

Located in Limnioniza, the Monastery of Agios Nikolaos was built during the 17th century. The monastery flourished after the Revolution of 1821, but would be abandoned after World War II. The monastery of Agios Nikolaos was originally a monastery for men, but was transformed into a women’s monastery in 1983 after its restoration and renovation. The monastery has beautiful wall paintings and impressive icons. When you visit the Monastery of Agios Nikolaos, you can walk down to Limnioniza Beach. The beach is secluded and features crystal waters that are perfect for swimming.

Monasteries are great places to visit to get a feel for history and religion in one place. They often offer wonderful surroundings and views that make them worth the trip.

The post Monasteries to Visit in Hydra, Greece appeared first on .

Kaminia Beach

Located just 1 km from the town of Hydra, Kaminia beach is family friendly and organized. The pebbled beach is close to a few taverns and a convenient beach bar. There is an area called Mikro Kamini, which is a perfect area for families with small children as the water is shallow and clear. Kaminia beach is also a port full of fishing boats.

Vlichos Beach

Vlichos beach is located 2 km from Hydra town and can be accessed via foot or taxi boat. Vlichos beach is located in the small the resort town of the same name, so you will find tavernas and other amenities in the area. On the pebbled beach you can rent beds and order food and drink. It’s a relaxing spot to spend the day with the family. The waters at Vlichos beach are also shallow and crystal clear. Above the beach are white cottages and houses with yards full of colorful flowers.

Hydroneta Beach

Hydroneta beach is unique as it has cemented sun decks and a bar that hangs from the rocks. Music is played for approximately 20 hours a day creating a relaxing environment. The view from the bar is spectacular and a must-see during sunset. You can swim in the beautiful blue waters below or spend the day lounging in the sun. There is also a cafeteria above the beach with good food and a great view of the surrounding area. There are also cannons above the beach. Hydroneta is just walking distance from Hydra Town.

Bisti Beach

If you’re into diving and water sports, Bisti beach is for you. Bisti beach is on the western side of Hydra island. The beach is run by the diving club, but you don’t need to participate in any of the water sports to enjoy the beach. If you do want to spend time on the water you can go kayaking, scuba diving, or snorkeling. You get to Bisti beach by taking a boat from Hydra Port.

Limnioniza Beach

If you want to experience a secluded beach that is partially organized, Limnioniza is for you. This beach is located 4 km south-east of Hydra Town. The crystal clear emerald waters, deserted location, and peaceful environment make this beach the place to go if you want a quiet, relaxing day. The beach is accessible via taxi boat or private boat. Scuba diving is available at this beach if the activity interests you.

Spilia Beach

Although this area is called Spilia Beach, it actually resembles more of a cave than a beach. Here, concrete has been blasted out to form beds that are perfect for lounging. The sunshine is strong here and extremely relaxing, and the waters are warm and clear. This beach is also convenient to approach since it is located near the main harbor. This makes it a perfect spot for those who are staying near the harbor or who are only on Hydra for the day.

Avlaki Beach

If you are lounging at Spilia Beach and want a change of pace, consider walking to Avlaki Beach. All you need to do is take the stone steps down towards the water and you’ll be met with a strip of pebbles that are perfect for lounging and bathing in the sun. The water here is also clear blue and extremely warm. Although the beachside area is small it is still worth a visit, especially if you were already in the area.

When visiting Hydra, you have a number of beaches to visit. The island and its beaches are relaxing, beautiful, and come with amazing views.

The post Top Beaches to Visit on Hydra appeared first on .

Also known as Lazaros Koundouriotis Historical Mansion, the Lazaros Koundouriotis Museum on Hydra Island is located on the west side of the port of Hydra. The mansion was built in 1780 and owned by the Koundouriotis family.

About the Lazaros Koundouriotis Museum

In 1979, the mansion was handed over to the Historical and Ethnological Society of Greece having been donated by Pandelis Koundouriotis. The mansion has served as a museum and annex of the National Historical Museum since 2001.

Lazaros Koundouriotis was a shipowner who played an important role during the War of Independence. He provided a lot of money to finance the Greek fleet. It is estimated that he contributed about one tenth of Spetses, Hydra, and Psara combined. George Koundouriotis was the president of the Provisional Government during the last years of the War of Independence. George’s grandson. Pavlos Koundouriotis was an admiral and a commander during the 1912 Greek-Turkish War.

The mansion that now serves as the Lazaros Koundouriotis Museum is a wonderful example of 18th century Hydriot mansions. The architecture of the building reflects the influences that came from abroad and maintains much of the functions of a home. The building also features ceiling borders that were hand-painted, black and white marble tile floors, and moldings.

Tour the Lazaros Koundouriotis Museum

The first thing you will notice about the Lazaros Koundouriotis Museum is that it faces the harbor. This makes for a wonderful view before entering the museum. Before stepping into the museum, take time to also admire the outside of the mansion and its beautiful architecture and style.

The Lazaros Koundouriotis Museum showcases exhibits that include furniture, portraits, 17th century costumes, jewelry, paintings, mirrors, and ceramics. There is also an exhibit of heirlooms that belonged to the Koundouriotis family and historical collections from the National Museum of History. Paintings on exhibit include those by Greek artists Konstantinos and Periklis Byzantios.

Getting to the Lazaros Koundouriotis Museum on Hydra Island

There is no airport on the island of Hydra, but you can fly into Athens and from there take a ferry to Hydra Island from the Piraeus port. This ferry departs multiple times a day. You can also take a ferry to Hydra from the eastern side of the Peloponnese as well as Poros and Spetses. Getting around on Hydra is done by foot or by donkey as there are no vehicles on the island.

As you tour the museum, on the first floor you will experience the residence as it was experienced by the last resident of the mansion, Pandelis Koundouriotis. You will be able to view traditional Greek folk art and paintings of the landscapes of Hydra.

The post Tour the Lazaros Koundouriotis Museum on Hydra Island appeared first on .

About Hydra Island

Hydra Island is a vehicle-free Greek island, making it an ideal destination for those who enjoy getting around on foot and experiencing nature. You will quickly notice the donkeys that are used to transport luggage and other items around. If interested, you can even take a donkey ride around the port of Hydra.

Many of the beaches of Hydra are pebbled with beautiful greenery surrounding them. Some of the beaches of the island include: Vlichos Beach, Spilia Beach, Bisti Beach, and Molos Beach. The island of Hydra was the setting for the movies “A Boy on a Dolphin” and “A Girl in Black.”

Go Horseback Riding on Hydra

The Greek island of Hydra is a must-visit destination for anyone wanting to get away from hustle and bustle and enjoy a more laid back vacation. Walking is a great way to see the island, but if you’re looking for a unique experience, you can try horseback riding. This is the perfect activity to enjoy solo, with friends, or with family and children.

There are a few horseback riding companies located on the island of Hydra for you to choose from. Horseback riding tours vary in length. They can run from one hour to eight hours long. You can choose from different tours depending on what you are interested in seeing. Tours are typically for small groups, but if you want a tour for a larger group, you can arrange this ahead of time with the company. Horseback riding tour companies on Hydra take safety seriously, so you know you will be looked after.

A horseback riding tour is an ideal way to see different sides to the island in a short amount of time. You can see villages and beaches during your tour. You will pass by monasteries and other landmarks that you might not get to see while exploring on foot. If you’re lucky, you may get to horseback ride along the beach during a beautiful Greek sunset. Horseback riding offers the opportunity to see more remote areas of Hydra you might not know about otherwise.

Getting to Hydra Island in Greece

If you’re traveling to Hydra Island from Athens, you can take a ferry that leaves from Piraeus Port many times a day. The ferry trip takes about 2 hours, but the scenery makes it worth the time. If you want a quicker trip there is also a high-speed vessel available.

You can get to Hydra via ferry from Spetses, Poros, and the eastern side of the Peloponnese. Hydra Island does not have an airport, so if you are flying into Greece from another location or from somewhere else within Greece, the closest airport is in Athens.

The post Go Horseback Riding on Hydra appeared first on .

Hydra, Greece has a hot-summer Mediterreanean climate. The summers are hot and the winters are mild. The hottest months on the island are June to September and the coldest month is January. August is the driest month and December is the wettest.

This weather forecast in Hydra, Greece, will vary from year to year. The averages that you see below represent historical weather data. Here is the typical weather forecast throughout the year for Hydra, Greece:

January

• Temperature: 48.9° F (9.4° C) – 57.4° F (14.1° C)
• Precipitation: 83.1 mm
• Climate: 13 days of rain on average, 129 hours of sunshine, water temperature 57.2° F (14° C), cool, dry air, clear/overcast
• Humidity: 76%

February

• Temperature: 50.4° F (10.2° C) – 59.5° F (15.3° C)
• Precipitation: 39.9 mm
• Climate: 11 days of rain on average, 136 hours of sunshine, water temperature 57.2° F (14° C), cool, dry air, clear/overcast
• Humidity: 75%

March

• Temperature: 53.8° F (12.1° C) – 63.9° F (17.7° C)
• Precipitation: 64.6 mm
• Climate: 11 days of rain on average, 183 hours of sunshine, water temperature 57.2° F (14° C), cool, dry air, clear/overcast
• Humidity: 71%

April

• Temperature: 56.7° F (13.7° C) – 67.1° F (19.5° C)
• Precipitation: 54.9 mm
• Climate: 9 days of rain on average, 230 hours of sunshine, water temperature 59° F (15° C), cool/comfortable, dry air, 80% clear, overcast
• Humidity: 68%

May

• Temperature: 64.8° F (18.2° C) – 75.7° F (24.3° C)
• Precipitation: 10.5 mm
• Climate: 6 days of rain on average, 291 hours of sunshine, water temperature 64.4° F (18° C), comfortable/warm, beach/pool score 5
• Humidity: 62%

June

• Temperature: 73.2° F (22.9° C) – 85.6° F (29.8° C)
• Precipitation: 9.4 mm
• Climate: 4 days of rain on average, 336 hours of sunshine, water temperature 71.6° F (22° C), warm, 10% muggy, 99% clear, beach/pool score 9.5
• Humidity: 59%

July

• Temperature: 77.7° F (25.4° C) – 90° F (32.2° C)
• Precipitation: 0.8 mm
• Climate: 2 days of rain on average, 364 hours of sunshine, water temperature, 75.2° F (24° C), hot, 25% muggy, 99% clear, beach/pool score 9.5
• Humidity: 55%

August

• Temperature: 79.3° F (26.3° C) – 91° F (32.8° C)
• Precipitation: 12.1 mm
• Climate: 2 days of rain on average, 340 hours of sunshine, water temperature 75.2° F (24° C), hot, 30% muggy, 99% clear, beach/pool score 9.5
• Humidity: 56%

September

• Temperature: 74.3° F (23.5° C) – 84.9° F (29.4° C)
• Precipitation: 41.9 mm
• Climate: 4 days of rain on average, 277 hours of sunshine, water temperature 73.4° F (23° C), warm, 20% muggy, 95% clear, beach/pool score 8
• Humidity: 61%

October

• Temperature: 68.4° F (20.2° C) – 78.1° F (25.6° C)
• Precipitation: 24.6 mm
• Climate: 9 days of rain on average, 208 hours of sunshine, water temperature 69.8° F (21° C), warm/comfortable, slightly muggy, 60% clear, overcast
• Humidity: 69%

November

• Temperature: 61.9° F (16.6° C) – 69.3° F (20.7° C)
• Precipitation: 84.6 mm
• Climate: 11 days of rain on average, 152 hours of sunshine, water temperature 66.2° F (19° C), comfortable/cool, 75% dry air, clear/overcast
• Humidity: 74%

December

• Temperature: 56.3° F (13.5° C) – 63° F (17.2° C)
• Precipitation: 119 mm
• Climate: 14 days of rain on average, 127 hours of sunshine, water temperature 60.8° F (16° C), cool, dry air, clear/overcast
• Humidity: 75%

Traveling to Hydra, Greece is the perfect choice for anyone who prefers a hot summer climate. If heat isn’t your thing, visit during the winter months for cooler temperatures.

Find the current weather forecast for Hydra, Greece here:

Weather.com – Hydra, Greece Weather Forecast

The post Hydra, Greece Weather: Temperature and Climate appeared first on .

Hydra Island is the perfect spot for a romantic getaway. There are no cars on the island, so you can walk from destination to destination taking in the beauty Hydra has to offer. If you’re looking for romance, don’t miss out on these activities:

Enjoy Hand-in-Hand Walks Around Hydra

Thanks to the small size of the island of Hydra and the fact that there are no cars, it is the perfect place for couples to enjoy long walks along the narrow streets of the town or along the shore of one of the many beaches. Hydroneta Beach is within walking distance of Hydra Town. It features a rocky coast with a cafeteria above that will provide you with a lovely view of the sea while you eat. For a more private experience, you can walk to secluded beach such as Molos or Limnioniza that don’t get crowded and you can enjoy walking the shoreline. Watching the sunset from a beach is the perfect way to end a romantic day.

Relax at a Spa

Many of the resorts on Hydra Island have spas and wellness centers. An afternoon of relaxation can be a wonderful prelude to a romantic evening. Indulge yourselves in a couple’s massage or take a yoga class. The ambiance you’ll find at a spa will hit all of your senses, from the scents to the lighting. A romantic vacation is the perfect time to treat yourselves to an activity that will help melt the stress away. Leave your troubles behind and focus on your partner at one of the lovely spas in Hydra, Greece.

Go Horseback Riding

Horseback riding around the island of Hydra with your loved one can be a very romantic date. There are a number of horseback riding centers around the island to choose from and many different treks as well. Rides can last anywhere from under an hour to eight hours depending on the package you choose. A more unique horseback riding trip will take you into the water. Another will take you through the pine forest. Some packages will include lunch, swimming, and other exploration.

Enjoy a Romantic Dinner

Hydra Island is the perfect place to enjoy a romantic dinner with the one you love. Whether you prefer something more casual or you want to dress up, you’ll find it in Hydra. One appropriately named restaurant called Sunset is the ideal place to go when you’re looking for a late-night meal. It is also a great spot to watch the sunset from as it has outdoor seating.

You will find opportunities for romance all around the island of Hydra.

The post Experience Romance on the Greek Island of Hydra appeared first on .

About Hydronetta Beach in Hydra

Hydronetta Beach is also known as the “Blue Cave” beach because of its enchanting waters. Here you can take a swim at your leisure in bright blue waters surrounded by high cliffs. The shade provided by the cliff walls makes this area very popular for swimmers who want to beat the heat during summertime, as the sun is almost always shining. Hydronetta Beach in Hydra is a historical landmark, which dates back to the early 19th century when it was used as a sauna under Venetian rule.

What to Do at Hydronetta Beach in Hydra

Hydronetta Beach is the ideal place for scuba diving and snorkeling! The waters surrounding the beach are home to various types of fish and other aquatic life, making it an ideal place for water sports. A number of companies in the area offer guided tours and diving lessons for visitors who want to explore the underwater environment in Hydra. Boat tours are also available, allowing visitors a different perspective on the island’s marine life.

The surrounding cliffs at Hydronetta Beach have been declared a protected area! Under no circumstances should any climbing be done! In addition, this beach is an area for nesting sea turtles, so any kind of disturbance can adversely affect the survival of this endangered species.

Getting to Hydronetta Beach in Hydra

Hydronetta Beach in Hydra is located on the island’s northern coast, and it is about 16 kilometers away from the city center. Visitors usually take local buses or taxis from the port to the beach. There are buses that will take you directly to the beach, but it can be difficult to find a seat during peak times.

Since Hydronetta Beach is located on an island, there is no bridge connecting it with the mainland. The only way to reach Hydra Island is by boat or seaplane. With regards to flights, Hellenic Seaways and Aegean Airlines provide daily flights from Athens to the island.

You can fly to Athens and then take a ferry or seaplane to Hydra Island. You’ll need to purchase a ferry ticket online in advance because most ferries sell out quickly. The ride is about 2 hours long depending on weather conditions (and it can get pretty rocky!) Make sure that you are seated in the front or middle of the ship because it is where all of the action happens! You should definitely take a ferry ride to Hydronetta Beach at least one time during your trip – it’s an incredible experience!

Hydronetta Beach in Hydra is a unique destination that you need to visit at least once. It’s truly an amazing experience to enjoy the beautiful waters and surrounding cliffs of this beach! If you want to participate in water activities such as scuba diving or snorkeling, this is also the place for you. Whether it’s day or evening time, you’ll always feel safe and relaxed in the blue waters of Hydra Island.

Source

The post About Hydronetta Beach in Hydra appeared first on .

How to Get to Hydra

Hydra is fairly easy to get to from Athens since the island isn’t far away from the port of Piraeus. If you are flying into Athens, you’ll need to take a bus or a taxi from the airport and board your boat from there. This is the best approach if you’re spending an extended amount of time here. However, there is another way to get yourself to Hydra. Since it is so close to Athens, it is actually possible to come here just for the day by taking one of the money boat tours that either hit several islands in the Saronic Gulf or will take you directly to Hydra and back. This means that it is possible to arrive on the island early and then have plenty of time to hike Mount Eros.

Staying Safe as a Hiker on Hydra

Hiking is listed as one of the top activities to do while on Hydra. The common advice is to make sure that you hike smart. The terrain is fairly easy to navigate, but it can be difficult at the same time, especially if you aren’t prepared. Hikers need to wear comfortable clothes, sturdy hiking sandals, sneakers, or hiking boots, and should be smart about the route they plan on taking as well on their own limits. Water is a particular issue. Because the climate is dry, your body needs more water than you think, and many people end up with at least mild signs of dehydration by the time the hike is over. This problem is easily solved by drinking enough water as you walk. It is also important to let someone know where you are going so that you can

Ins and Outs of Hiking Mount Eros

The hike to Mount Eros is actually part of a monastery walk. As you hike to the Profitis Ilias Monastery the path will eventually lead you to a place with a sign that says, Mt. Eros. If your goal is to climb this mountain, you should take this path. However, there are other ways to access this mountain, as well. Most hikers advise starting the hike from the Hydra center, and that you should expect it to take about four hours. It’s also a good idea to hike early in the day so that the heat isn’t intense as you walk.

Whether you’re staying on Hydra just for the day or you spend an extended amount of time here, hiking up Mount Eros to enjoy the exercise and the view is an activity you won’t want to miss.

Source:

Wikipedia – Hydra (island)

The post Hike Mount Eros While Visiting Hydra appeared first on .

Arriving at the Island of Hydra

Since Hydra is only a short distance away from Piraeus, this means it is a doable day trip if you want to only spend a few hours here. The island is too small for an airport, which means that the only way to get here is by boat. It is also possible to book a boat tour and some excursions schedule in a stop at the island of Hydra. However, if you truly do want to spend time at the beach, you’ll want to make sure that your excursion gives you plenty of time. It is also possible to stay on the island for an extended period of time so that you can spend as much time on Saint Nicholas Beach as you want!

Relaxing at Saint Nicholas Beach

Visitors who come to this beach are immediately taken with how relaxing it is. Many report visiting here more than once during their stay on the island. Those who are only heading here for a day trip won’t have the opportunity to visit more than once. However, knowing that people do make this their main attraction while on Hydra can help us understand how great it is. People who come here say that it is an ideal beach for lounging, soaking up the sun, and also for swimming.

Enjoy the View at Saint Nicholas Beach

Saint Nicholas Beach is also known for being extremely picturesque. The water is a clear, turquoise blue. It’s also very warm, which is why people say this is a great beach for swimming. The beach itself is surrounded by rolling hills, and those who are lounging on the beach get a great view of the sea in front of them. There is also a restaurant close to the beach, which means that you can easily enjoy your meal while lounging.

While on the island of Hydra, one of the top activities to do is visit the beach. Since there are no cars allowed on the island, this means that the beach will be even more relaxing! If you’re looking for an ideal place to experience what a traditional Greek beach is really all about, this is the place!

The post About St. Nicholas Beach on Hydra Island appeared first on .

Facts about Hydra Island

Even though it still maintains its charm, the people are no stranger to tourism. It was discovered right along Mykonos in the 1950’s as being an island worth visiting. These are amongst the first Greek islands that really attracted the international jet setters and they both paved the way for Greece as a worthy destination for travelers. Today, visitors are treated to friendly hospitality and old world charm without venturing too far away from civilization.

Getting There

The island is primarily reachable by ferry. Since it’s only 35 nautical miles from Piraeus, Greece’s largest port, the ferries run fairly regularly. If you’re going to the island right from the airport, you can arrange for a transfer with public transportation, private car, or taxi which will drop you off at the port. If you’re not planning to stay on the island but would still like to pay a visit, you can easily take a ferry for a day trip, or tack it onto your itinerary as part of a tour, which you can organize privately at your hotel, tourist center, or local travel agency.

Explore Hydra Town

Aside from offering a typical Greek island experience made up of beaches, great food, and nightlife, there are a few unique sights to see while there. Traditionally, Hydra was the place where all the wealthy ship captains would settle and they went to great lengths to display how much wealth they had. The architecture that was a direct result of this is initially what prompted the wealthy elite from the 1950’s and 1960’s to flock here. Today, visitors are greeted with unique restaurants, chic shops, and enough nightlife to make anyone happy! You can also visit the Historical Archives and Museum for an historical overview of the island.

Visit Notable Festivals

Hydra celebrates two notable festivals that fall within the peak tourist season. In June, the people of the island reenact the Battle of Geronta where a Greek admiral caused some serious damage to the Turkish naval fleet during the Greek War for Independence. To celebrate, a model ship is ceremoniously attacked and sunk in the harbor. There is also a puppet festival that takes place in early July. If you can attend either of these festivals, it can really bring the island alive!

Hydra is an unspoiled island that is far from isolated. Since it is so close to Athens, the island does see a fair share of travelers throughout the peak tourist season. Despite that, it is still a relaxing retreat.

The post Hydra is an Unspoiled Greek Island appeared first on .

Take a Ferry from Piraeus

There is no airport on Hydra so your only option is to take a ferry. The good news is that it is a short ride from Piraeus, Greece’s largest port. Since it’s so close to Athens, you actually have a choice as to whether or not you want to visit for the day or stay for a longer period of time. Ferries depart on a regular schedule, and it’s also part of the itinerary for the popular “Three Island Cruise” tour that departs from Piraeus.

Getting to Your Hotel

Once you arrive at the island, you will notice that there are no cars. You’ll notice that there will be donkeys waiting to take you to your hotel. It’s quite a sight! The streets are filled with donkeys carrying both luggage and people. Of course, you could always walk to your hotel. The donkey, however, is the more unique of the two options. Your best bet is to find a hotel in Hydra Town, which is right at the port.

What to Do in Hydra Town

Hydra Town is fairly small, but it is the biggest village on island. There are plenty of opportunities for shopping, dining, and there is even a great nightlife scene. If you’re interested in Hydra’s history, you’ll want to be sure to visit the Hydra Museum. While wandering the streets, you’ll also notice the mansions, which housed the island’s wealthy. There is also an impressive Orthodox Christian Cathedral that you can view.

Beaches on Hydra

In order to reach most of the beached on Hydra, you’ll either need to walk or take a water taxi. If you want a quick beach visit from Hydra Town, your closest bet is the Spilia Swimming Rocks. Though much of it is surrounded by concrete platforms, the water is clear, clean, and easy to swim. Not only that, but there are opportunities to eat and drink there while overlooking the water.

If you want to enjoy a white sand beach, the Four Seasons Beach, located on the other side of the island, is your best bet. There’s a thriving tavern near the water and the beach is easily reachable by boat. If seclusion is what you want, the beach at Ayios Nikolaos is your best option.

Even though Hydra is easily reachable from Athens for a day trip, that doesn’t give you enough time to truly explore the island. Even though it does attract a tourist crowd the island still has a peaceful feel because there are no vehicles (aside from a few official city trucks).

The post Hydra – Hidden Wonder in the Saronic Gulf appeared first on .

Another thing that people can do while in Athens is venture outside of the city to take day trips. Athens is close enough to ancient sites like Olympia and Marathon in order to visit during the day. What a lot of people don’t realize, however, is that some islands are reachable for a day trip from the city. Here’s a look at the three islands you can visit for the day while staying in Athens:

Aegina

Aegina is a quaint, yet bustling island that provides a place for those living in Athens to retreat to in their free time. This means that visitors can easily do the same. The port is especially bustling, especially during the parts of the day when the ferry is running on a regular schedule. When people visit for the day, they tend to huddle in the area around the main port and browse through the shops, eat in the nearby restaurants, and explore some of the beaches that are easily accessed, such as Marathon Beach. If you get the chance, consider visiting some of the bakeries and sweet shops to sample some treats that are made with pistachios, which is a nut grown locally and utilized often in the cuisine on the island.

Hydra

Hydra is a fascinating little island that is also accessible from Athens. Unlike some of the other islands that are close to the city, Hydra stands apart as being somewhat frozen in time. This is largely due to the fact that there are no vehicles allowed on the island. Once you arrive at the port, you will need to either walk to get around, ride a donkey, or hire a cart that is being pulled by a donkey or a horse. If you’re staying here for the day, however, you will probably stick to exploring the beaches, shops, and restaurants that are close to the port.

Poros

This island is fairly close to the Peloponnese and is only separated from the mainland by a narrow strip of water. It is a fairly mountainous island that is also easily accessed from Athens. This island tends to have an easy, laid back feel to it and it also has some resorts that visitors can enjoy who wish to stay longer than one day.

If you’re staying in Athens and you want to venture outside of the city for a day, consider visiting one of the islands. You actually don’t need to pick just one of these islands to visit, either. You can easily book a tour that will have you visiting each of these three during your stay. You can either take a ferry from Piraeus to one of these islands on your own or book a tour. It is also important to note that you can either spend the day at any one of these places or book an extended stay so you can enjoy each of the islands for more than one day.

The post Island Day Trips to Take from Athens appeared first on .