HYDRA

GENERAL INFORMATION

The small island of Hydra attracts a large number of visitors all year round. The cosmopolitan aura, the natural beauty, and the elegance which emanates from every last building, all contribute to the formation of a majestic atmosphere which ensnares those fortunate to experience it. Its permanent residents, less than 3000 people, live their lives undisturbed by loud engine noises or traffic jams, as the use of automobiles is prohibited on the island. Their homes, built amphitheatrically upon the two hills towering over its picturesque natural harbor, offer them clear view to the sea, as the construction of high rises or other tall buildings is strictly forbidden, thus preserving the traditional architectural pattern of the town. These measures, in addition to preserving beauty, ensuring tranquility, and maintaining order, create an illusion of travelling into the past. Walking along the narrow, stone-paved alleys, between mansions built with battlements to defend against pirates, the visitor may find himself wandering in past ages.       

HISTORY-CULTURE

Settlements on Hydra can be found dating as far back as the Neolithic age. Beginning somewhere around 3000 B.C. and continuing all the way through the duration of the Mycenean times, the island enjoyed considerable prosperity as it served as a base for commercial vessels. After long centuries in limbo, Hydra awoke in the 17th century, when it became once more the mother of seafaring merchant-fighters who gradually acquired considerable wealth and power. By the 18th century their political influence ?a direct result of their financial prominence and their military prowess- had grown enough to wrestle comfortable autonomy from the Turkish conquerors. This status enabled them to enhance their economical power further yet, as well as to expand their already fearsome fleet. These heavily armed merchant vessels, numbering more than 100,  were a considerable asset at the beginning of the Greek revolution in 1821, their contribution to this struggle for independence proven critical in many occasions. Hydra had her own share ?disproportionately large for her size and population of 27000 people at the time- of renowned heroes during these difficult times, including Miaoulis, the admiral of the Greek navy. Hydra today, with her elegance and her cosmopolitan aura, has naturally become a place greatly appreciated by esteemed and celebrated artists. Many visit regularly, and some have been fortunate enough to acquire permanent residence here.   

SIGHTS

The town of Hydra, the capital of the island, is a sight in itself, which captivates its visitor before he even sets foot on her. The natural port, where defensive canons serve as a reminder of a glorious past, hosts many impressive yachts and introduces the visitor to what he is about to encounter. Impressive mansions stand with dignity among proud though lesser dwellings, all forming a scene of a past long forgotten in modern towns. Traditional architecture, which has somehow mastered the delicate balance between effective defense, charm, beauty and elegance, is complemented by flowered gardens framing the stone-paved alleys of a town which seems like an effort of man to create a smooth corner for himself on a rugged, rocky terrain. The 48km-long coastline forms a multitude of beaches, some pebbled like Bitsi (accessible only by sea), Avlaki, and Vlycho, while rocks and cliffs make most others ideal for exciting dives into crystal-clear waters. Spilia, Kamini, Mandraki, Molos and Episkopi are the most popular of these. The monasteries and the churches of the island, some dating as far back as the 17th century, are also well worth a visit.  The mansions of the wealthy merchants of Hydra, who summoned artists and artisans from abroad to contribute to the decoration of their family homes, are difficult to match in elegance or beauty. Many of these serve as public buildings, such as museums, administrative offices, and educational centers.       

ENTERTAINMENT-SPORTS-SHOPPING

Beautiful beaches offer ideal conditions for swimming, diving, or fishing, while the paths which crisscross the interior of the island form wonderful trekking routes. Organized beaches also provide the opportunity to enjoy watersports, while many hotels have tennis courts and playgrounds. Local restaurants, naturally focused on seafood but also well accustomed to serving a large variety of dishes, accommodate even the most demanding tastes. Coffee shops are all over town, serving coffee and refreshments all day long and sometimes well into the night. Nightlife is vivid, with open-air bars and clubs, where drinks can be enjoyed with a view to the sea and dances take place under the star-lit sky. The market offers an adequate variety of local accessories and unforgettable experiences, such as watching a donkey deliver goods. Don?t forget -cars are not allowed here.        

ACCESS

Fast and conventional speed ferry lines arrive daily in Hydra from Piraeus. The duration of the trip ranges from 1h.10min. to 3h.15min.  

CONNECTION

Hydra is linked with Poros, Aegina, Methana, Spetses, and the Peloponnesean mainland. During the winter there is also a line to Cythera. 

MUSEUMS

The historical museum is housed within the mansion of Gikas N. Koulouras. Its collection includes artifacts, books, documents and clothing relevant to the Greek War for Independence, and some from the two World Wars of the 20th century. The mansion of Lazaros Koundouriotis hosts the artifacts collection of his dignified family, along with an art gallery. The ecclesiastical museum in the monastery of the Passing of the Madonna has an invaluable collection of religious artifacts and handwritten documents.

ALTERNATIVE TOURISM

Cultural-historical, spiritual, educational, elderly programmes, sporting (windsurfing, water ski, sailing, scuba diving, trekking), gastronomy.

USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS: 

Hydra Area Code:  22980-

Police: 22980-52205

Port Police: 22980-52279

Telecommunications Org.: 22980-52399

Municipality: 22980-52210

Post Office: 22980-53398, 52262

Hospital: 22980-53150, 53151

Pharmacies: 22980-53260