With its classical Greek architecture, one of the things that keeps Hydra island pristine is the ban on new construction and cars. The reason is that the roads on Hydra island are too narrow and steep to be suitable for car travel. Perhaps that is why Hydra island remains the same as 50 years ago.
Hydra Island is located 90 minutes by ferry from Athens. All motor vehicles are banned on the island, giving it a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. The island, which is only about 20 km long, attracts visitors with its picturesque harbor, clear blue waters, country-style restaurants, romantic streets and especially the quiet, fresh air thanks to the ban on wheeled vehicles.
Hydra Island remains pristine thanks to the ban on new construction and cars.
Except for garbage trucks, ambulances and fire trucks, all wheeled vehicles, from cars to motorbikes to bicycles, are banned on the island. As a result, residents and visitors can enjoy a life without honking or seeing cars rushing through the streets. Here, children can play freely, and sounds that are usually drowned out are more easily heard.
The island is sparsely populated, with the main population concentrated in the port town of Hydra. Visitors can get here by high-speed ferry from Athens, which takes about 90 minutes, or by cruise ship.
The main means of transportation on Hydra Island are donkeys.
Traveling on Hydra Island, donkeys or mules act as a means of transport for tourists. With more than 1,000 donkeys on the island, visitors to Hydra Island can easily rent donkeys to travel from the port to the city or to walk around the island under the guidance of donkey riding experts. In particular, donkeys on Hydra Island are also ranked in terms of health and speed... Donkeys used to transport luggage and goods around the island stand in a corner near where the ferry docks.
Not the main means of transport, but for those who have more conditions, in addition to donkeys, visitors can choose to ride horses. A horse riding tour is organized and operated by a small company run by the local people. A horseback excursion can last from 45 minutes to a whole day. This is also an opportunity for visitors to interact and observe the life of the unique Harriet horse breed of Greece.
The city was built on a hill and the houses were made of exquisite stone.
Due to the ban on new construction since 1970, Hydra Island has retained its ancient features. The local architecture is one of the best things that visitors should enjoy when coming to Hydra Island.
One activity that goes hand in hand with enjoying this local architecture is to wander around and soak up the atmosphere of Hydra at any time of the day.
The city is built on a hill and its exquisite stone houses, mysterious monasteries and cobblestone streets create a landlocked feel. On the hills surrounding the port, visitors will find well-kept houses, hotels and eateries. Interesting shops and unique cafes are scattered through the narrow streets.
Coffee shop on the island
Here, you can leisurely stroll, drink coffee, or swim in the clear water at the beaches. There are also caves around the town for visitors to explore.
The island has many beautiful beaches that can be reached by walking along paved paths, such as Vlychos. You can also take the highway from the port, the resort’s free shuttle boat, or the public double-decker ferry. After swimming, visitors can dine at the beachside tarvenas (restaurants), which offer typical dishes and fresh seafood while taking in the view.
When talking about islands, it is impossible not to mention the sea. On Hydra Island, there are 3 main beaches where visitors are allowed to swim and enjoy the scenery: Vlychos, Kaminia and Agios.
Hydra Island deserves to be called the most beautiful island in Greece.
Each beach has its own attraction such as Vlychos, a pebble beach located in the town of Vlychos and accessible by water taxi (sea canoe).
Hydra Island deserves to be called the most beautiful island in Greece with beautiful towns and cities with unique architecture, preserving ancient cultural identity.
