Hydra
From Tolo harbour, daily cruises to the Argosaronic Islands and Monemvasia.
The first signs of life on Hydra (known as Hydrea in ancient times) date from the later Neolithic Period (3000 – 2600 BC) and were centred on the ‘Cave of Kolokotronis’. The island was an important centre for transport and supplies. The inhabitants of the island appear to have been the Dryopes, a people whose main activities were stock breeding and fishing.
Today Hydra and its 2,500 inhabitants live at their own pace. The concept of time is different, since motor vehicles are banned. The main method of land transport is the 500 or so donkeys, which are used even for the longest journeys. However, the main road on Hydra is the sea. Every summer groups of sailing boats moor at the harbour as well as dozens of sensational motorboats and yachts. The town was built in an amphitheatric shape, which is similar to the shape of the island, and looks like a painting. The many mansions and churches, cannons and statues have kept the atmosphere of this island unique and unchanged.
- BEACHES IN HYDRA -
MANDRAKI
This is to the east of Hydra town, a short distance away. During the time of the War of Independence it was used as a harbour, but today it is the beach with the best on-beach services on the island, with excellent facilities for water sports. The MIRAMARE Hotel is situated there, and the mountain which surrounds it is rocky and steep.
BISTI
Apebbly beach which is mainly used by the Hydra Diving Centre for its organised activities (diving and kayaking), although this does not prevent other bathers from using it free of charge.
VLYCHOS
A beach covered with pebbles in the Vlychos holiday resort, which also has a number of taverns.
SPILIA
This beach was created when the steep cliffs in the area were blown up and covered with cement, in order to create a multi-level spot which is ideal for sunbathing. It is directly opposite the harbour, but its water is perfectly clean.
LIMNIONIZA
This is to the south of the island and many people consider it to be the most beautiful beach. This is why it is worth hiking for two hours to swim in its wonderfully clean waters. A rocky islet a short distance from the coast is yet another destination for visitors to this beach.
HYDRONETTA
This beach, which lies directly below the cannons, has cement decks, suitable for sunbathing, and beautifully clear waters.
AGIOS NIKOLAOS
A sandy beach, strewn with pebbles, on the west of the island. Access is only possible by water-taxi.
- MUSEUMS -
HISTORICAL ARCHIVE – MUSEUM OF HYDRA, located on the east side of the harbour, next to the Merchant Shipping School .
ECCLESIASTICAL AND BYZANTINE MUSEUM.
Since 1933 this has been housed in the old monks’ cells of the Monastery of Koimisi Theotokou.
ANNEX TO THE NATIONAL HISTORICAL MUSEUM.
MUSEUM OF POST-BYZANTINE ART AND HISTORY OF HYDRA.
Useful Numbers
Town Hall: +30 22980 52210, 53003
Port: 22980 52279
Police: 22980 52205
Hospital: 22980 53150
Post Office: 22980 52262, 53398
