It is separated from the Peloponnese by narrow strip of water. In ancient times, the island was known as Hydrea (Υδρέα, derived from the Greek word for "water"), which was a reference to the springs on the island. High speed hydrofoils and catamarans from Piraeus serve Hydra, as do daily island ferry boats.
The charm of Hydra is increased by the fact that the whole island is forbidden to any kind of motorised vehicle and only donkeys can serve as a means to transportation. That is why trekking is one of the favourite activities on the island. The traditional and wonderful architecture, the absence of vehicles, the hospitability of the inhabitants, the excitement of the nightlife and the high cosmopolitan aspect contribute to the high popularity and the incredible charm of Hydra holiday.
The National Merchant Marine Academy
The National Merchant Marine Academy of Hydra is the first naval academy in Greece. This academy was founded in 1749. It was first named Saint Nikolaos. The name was later changed to The Merchant Marine Academy of Hydra in the year 1800. In 1930, its name was again changed. It became the National Merchant Marine Academy. It still bears that name today.
Hydra benefits from numerous bays and natural harbours, and has a strong maritime culture. The island remains a popular yachting destination, and is the home of the Kamini Yacht Club, an international yacht club based in the port of Kamini.
Beaches of Hydra
When you visit a Greek island it's almost mandatory that you take a swim in the gorgeous, clear, sparkling sea that glitter enticingly in the heat of the summer. The majority of Hydra beaches are not sandy, all are pebbly which means the water is not cloudy but crystal clear.
Hydra's Museums
Throughout the high season there are many exhibitions and art shows to visit. You will find advertising posters pasted up all around the town. One of the main places for shows is the Melina Mercouri Hall on the east corner of the harbour. There are three small museums on Hydra Island and all are well worth a visit to get a feel for how life was lived on Hydra in the 17th & 18th Centuries. The Ecclesiastical Museum shows how important the link between the Church and State is and its influence on the culture of Hydra.
Miaoulia Festival
Annual event to celebrate Admiral Miaoulis one of the leaders of the Greek War of Independence. Week long celebration of events around the harbour culminating in a huge firework display after the reinactment of the sinking of the Turkish Flagship just outside the harbour wall
Hydra Nightlife
Hydra is famous for its intense nightlife, with the many bars and clubs along the port. With a sophisticated and romantic style, nightlife in Hydra distinguishes for the chilly music and the all-night parties. Most bars and clubs are found along the port and stay open till the early hours.
Hydra Local products
The most famous product of Hydra are the almond sweets, amygdalota. These sweets are prepared in local workshops and they are sold in the many gift shops and pastries around the port. Actually the amygdalota sweets of Hydra and Monemvasia are the most famous in Greece. Fresh fish is also cooked in the many taverns of Hydra, as many inhabitants deal with fishing. In the gift shops that line up the port, visitors can find handmade jewellery, paintings and other products.
Where To Stay On Hydra Island
Most of the accommodation on Hydra Island Greece is of a very high standard. Considering the small size of this cosmopolitan Greek island there is a relatively massive range of hotels, pensions, rooms, guest houses, apartment and self-catering private holiday houses for let to choose from.
The numerous beauties of the island, the way of life, the absence of air pollution and the local traditions surviving the growth of tourism give to Hydra a unique atmosphere and makes holidays on Hydra an excellent destination for everyone.
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