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Best island for a laid-back art crowd
Hydra has become a stop-off for the international art circuit. In
high season Hydra is known for its cosmopolitan glamour, feeling like a mini St Tropez, yet retains a laid back vibe being the boho, go-slow Greek island it is. Being car-free and protected by a preservation order, has meant no gigantic hotels, overcrowding of tourists, nor has the island been spoiled. Instead, it has a beautiful atmosphere of a far away hideaway. The artists' muse of the Greek Islands.
FOR A NIGHT ON SHORE
The Bratsera | A slice of history
Once a sponge factory, the Bratsera was lovingly converted into one of the most charming small hotels in the island. 25 high-windowed rooms stretch around a peaceful garden and pool, in a fairytale setting. The décor makes use of old materials that refer to the origins of the building, each room with its own character and some are small maisonettes. It's restaurant has established itself as a go to for the locals on the island. Enjoy evening cocktails under the garden’s impressive pergola, accompanied by delicious food and a softly lit pool.
Book: bratserahotel.com
Villa Citrus | Beachfront Hidden Gem
Located in a remote part of the island, Villa Citrus is a true hidden gem, positioned on a thin pebbled shore. Walk up a small pathway lined with olive trees and you’ll find this sophisticated summer villa, a perfect blend of traditional and modern elegance. With 3 bedrooms, the interiors bring together modern artworks and nature with the use of stone, wood and antique furniture.
A stunning pergola terrace faces the sea, with dining area, sun loungers and a smaller bistrot table. On an upper level there is a terrace lounge with breathe - taking views, inviting you to lose yourself with a glass of wine starring out over the Aegean seas.
Book: Villa Citrus | Hydra Greece |
Orloff Boutique Hotel | Historic Mansion
A 9 room boutique hotel that oozes charm and elegance, the Orloff still holds the untouched characteristics of the Hydra island. The architecture is representative of the time of the Greek revolution with high walls, no balconies, a secluded garden and courtyards, where you can expect total privacy during this stay.
A delicious Greek breakfast is served in the secluded garden, including homemade fresh bread and local cheese. Enjoy under the lemon trees and the sounds of selected classical music.
Book: Orloff Hotel Hydra
Plakostroto | The All-Day Location
From a hearty breakfast of pancakes and fresh frozen natural juices, through to cold beers appetizers and delicious Greek main dishes, Plaksostroto with give you impeccable service and a memorable experience of Hydra. Set in a lush green outdoor garden, very close to the centre of the cosmopolitan beach of Hydra, you can relax here anytime of the day. We especially love it to kick start our day with arguably the best local breakfast.
Miaouli Str., 18 040, Hydra
Téchnē | A Memorable Dinner
Situated by the sea in a renovated historic building, Téchnē serves carefully crafted dishes of modern Greek cuisine within a picturesque courtyard. The menu includes artisanal dishes that highlight the finest products sourced from various regions of Greece. Expect the freshest seafood and gluten free dishes all with an emphasis on seasonal and sustainable ingredients.
Epar.Od. Mandrakiou-Molou, Idra 180 40, Greece
Hydronetta | Spot for Sundowers
Hydronetta is located in one of Hydras' most beautiful sights, the 'cannons' and is a popular spot where many gather for sundowners. Positioned in the cliffs, enwrapped by sea, it makes a perfect spot for swimming during the day. Natural straw umbrella’s provide shade along the stone wall which runs against the ocean. Come evening, draw up a chair and watch the memorable sunsets. Enjoy a range of fresh cocktails, while listening jazz, or for a more lively night, look out for their trademark moon parties under the starlit sky.
Boudouri 180 40 Hydra Town
As you sail into Hydra, expect a yellow amphitheatre of citrine painted mansions lining the curved port. With the rocky island being only 50 kilometres square, it is captivating, although not as lush or green as other Greek islands. For centuries ancient Hydra was nothing but a pirates' lair. With no historic temples or ruins to visit, nor any street names, you simply set off and embrace it’s natural beauty. There is blissfully nothing to do, apart from eat, sleep and swim, which is why Hydra fills up with chic locals at the weekends. Flocking from Athens, only two hours away, in need of some slow living.
Although laid-back, Hydra is home to many cafes, which line its scenic port. Cafes in Hydra offer more than just coffee, but also light food, and alcoholic drinks as they are the centre of social activities, turning into bars in the evening. This sets Hydra apart from the rest, combining both a cosmopolitan and traditional style. So expect to find both elegant seafront restaurants with Mediterranean cuisine and very traditional Greek taverns, tucked down cobbles back streets.
Being a small rocky island, Hydra only has a handful of beaches, mainly reached by foot or boat. Most are small and pebbly, but you can always find a slab of sun-baked rock from which to dive into the clearest waters.
