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With its classic Greek architecture, one of the things that keeps Hydra Island pristine is the ban on new construction and cars. This is because the roads on Hydra Island are too narrow and steep to be suitable for car travel. Perhaps that's why Hydra Island has remained in the same state as it was 50 years ago.
Hydra Island is located a 90-minute ferry ride from Athens. All motorized vehicles are prohibited on the island, creating a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere. This island, only about 20 km long, attracts visitors with its picturesque harbor, turquoise waters, rustic-style restaurants, romantic streets, and especially its quiet, clean air thanks to the ban on wheeled vehicles.
Hydra Island has preserved its pristine state thanks to laws prohibiting the construction of new houses and the use of cars.
Except for garbage trucks, ambulances, and fire trucks, all wheeled vehicles, from cars and motorbikes to bicycles, are prohibited from operating on the island. As a result, residents and tourists can enjoy a life free from the honking of horns and the rush of traffic on the streets. Here, children can play freely, and sounds that are usually muffled are more easily heard.
The island is sparsely populated, mainly concentrated in the port town of Hydra. Visitors can reach it by speedboat from the capital Athens, a journey of about 90 minutes, or by cruise ship.
The primary mode of transportation on Hydra Island is donkeys.
On Hydra Island, donkeys or mules serve as a means of transportation for tourists. With over 1,000 donkeys on the island, visitors can easily rent them to travel from the port to the city or tour the island under the guidance of expert donkey riders. Notably, the donkeys on Hydra Island are also ranked for their health and speed… Donkeys used to transport luggage and goods around the island stand in a corner near where the ferry docks.
While not the primary mode of transportation, horseback riding is an option for more affluent travelers, in addition to donkeys. Horseback riding tours are organized and operated by small companies run by local people. A ride can last from 45 minutes to a full day. This also provides an opportunity to interact with and observe the life of the unique Harriet horse breed of Greece.
The city was built on a hilltop, with exquisite stone houses.
Due to the ban on new construction, Hydra Island has retained its original historical features since 1970. The local architecture is one of the best things visitors should experience when visiting Hydra Island.
One way to truly appreciate this local architecture is to wander around and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Hydra at any time of day.
The city, built on a hilltop, boasts exquisite stone houses, mystical monasteries, and cobblestone streets that create the illusion of ocean waves right on land. On the hills surrounding the harbor, visitors will find well-preserved houses, hotels, and restaurants. Interesting shops and unique cafes are scattered throughout the interwoven narrow streets.
Coffee shop on the island
Here, you can leisurely stroll, enjoy a coffee, or swim in the crystal-clear waters of the beaches. Around the town, there are also caves for visitors to explore.
The island boasts numerous beautiful beaches accessible via paved walkways, such as Vlychos Beach. You can also reach them by speedboat from the harbor, the resort's free shuttle boat, or the double-decker public ferry. After a swim, visitors can dine at the seaside tarvenas (restaurants), enjoying local cuisine and fresh seafood while admiring the scenery.
When talking about islands, it's impossible not to mention the sea. On Hydra Island, there are three main beaches where visitors are allowed to swim and enjoy the scenery: Vlychos, Kaminia, and Agios.
Hydra Island truly deserves to be called the most beautiful island in Greece.
Each beach has its own unique charm, such as Vlychos, a pebble beach located in the town of Vlychos, which visitors can reach by water taxi (sea canoe).
Hydra Island truly deserves to be called the most beautiful island in Greece, with its charming towns and cities boasting unique architecture and preserving its ancient cultural identity.
