Hydra

Hydra is arguably the prettiest island in the Saronic Gulf. Sturdy stone mansions dot the hillsides around the horseshoe-shaped harbour. A few centuries ago these would have belonged to wealthy merchants - each mansion would have had its own private church and priest.

Laws now prohibit any new buildings which don't conform to this authentic architectural style therefore Hydra is unhampered by modern architecture. Add to this Hydra's narrow cobbled streets, shady squares and the fact that the island has a ban on vehicles (using donkeys and mules instead) you'll not be surprised to learn that Hydra has remained relatively undeveloped.

Hydra was first discovered in the fifties and sixties by a group of artists who were attracted by the wonderful light, magnificent sunsets and the island's natural beauty; Hydra is still home to many artists and photographers.

People come here to relax and unwind; over the past number of years it has also attracted the wealthy in their large yachts. Day trippers come over from Athens and the neighbouring Saronic Islands so the height of summer can be a busy time to visit.

Most beaches on the island are pebbly, there is one sandy one on the west of the island (reached by water taxi).