Just 37 nautical miles from Athens’ Piraeus port, the island of Hydra is a hugely popular destination for relaxed holidaymakers and keen sailors. Named ‘hydra’ — meaning ‘water’ — as a nod to its natural hot springs, the island rises dramatically out of the Aegean Sea, and was once a prosperous trading centre with links across the Mediterranean. Most of the best places to stay in Hydra are clustered around the island’s picturesque port, perfect for making the most of time on both land and sea.
With historic connections to Venice and later the Ottoman Empire, Hydra was also a 19th-century boatbuilding hub. The old town is now home to a number of ship captains’ mansions, some of which have been transformed into charming heritage hotels. The Maritime Academy is a local landmark, as are the Lazaros Kountouriotis Mansion and the Tetsis House & Atelier. Hydra has been popular with artists since the 1950s, and you’ll find galleries, markets and studios aplenty, as well as a glamorous summer crowd in the trendy port-side bars and tavernas.
Venture beyond the old town to follow walking and cycling trails to whitewashed churches and monasteries, or to travel between little hamlets by horse or donkey. Out on the water, there are ample opportunities to swim, sail and kayak. Amble along to the harbour for sundowners, or kick back on the pretty terraces at one of the best places to stay in Hydra before tucking in to a delicious seafood dinner.