Hydra is picturesque, romantic and cosmopolitan as well as the ideal place for lovers of beauty. So why not go on a honeymoon to Hydra, the small jewel of the Saronic Islands? And we will prove why… It is an island that has managed to retain its timeless charm.
If you choose Hydra for your honeymoon you will soon realise that it has a lot to offer. It is an ideal place for those who believe that a honeymoon is synonymous to relaxation, touring, discovery and precious time that you can devote to your partner with the sea and sunset as background as well as a fragrance that charms every visitor.
Hydra’s Chora, which is built amphitheatrically on the north coast of the island, adds its own touch to the island’s rocky landscape, as well as the images that will be etched in the memory of every visitor as they approach the port. Many a celebrity loved and was inspired by this view: Hadjikyriakos-Gikas, Seferis, Engonopoulos, Henry Miller, Mick Jagger, Leonard Cohen, and Joan Collins.
Still not sure? It is said that if Hydra properly played the “game” of international marketing, it would be more famous than renowned resorts like St. Tropez, as the island’s beauty exceeds most other popular destinations. It’s no coincidence that during the last decade of the 50s, the famous actress Sophia Loren filmed the famous blockbuster “The Child and the Dolphin” on the island.
HIGHLIGHTS
Firstly, cars, motorcycles and tall buildings are prohibited on the island, which means you will relish in the island’s tranquil landscape and unique architecture. You will be impressed by the ancient 18th and 19th century mansions and Hydra’s ship and fish boat owners once you enter the Constantinople port (along with dozens of cats that will run after you!). Upon entering the harbour will see the Bastion with the cannons that formerly protected the city from invaders.
WHAT ELSE TO DO
Moonlit romancing at the port of Hydra and walks through the narrow alleys, dining at picturesque taverns by the sea (try the taverns in Kamini Village), donkey riding (if walking does not thrill you) to explore the island’s small villages and swimming (though the sea is a bit rocky). Swim at the rocks of Spilia and Hydronetta as well as Avlaki, Kamini and Mandraki which is considered the most cosmopolitan.
If you are art lovers, the island is home to galleries and museums housed in old mansions despite its small size. You will come across the Historical Museum of Hydra, the mansion of Tsamadou, which houses the School of Marine Merchants, the small Ecclesiastical and Byzantine Museum, the Fine Arts School, the Monastery of Theotokou, built in the 17th century, and you should climb Kiafa Hill to visit the Hydra’s oldest area.
When night falls: Get ready to party the night away at nightclubs or enjoy romantic nights at quiet bars. Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier III of Monaco, Melina Mercouri and Jules Dassin, Onassis and Jackie Kennedy were among the most famous couples who partied at Lagoudera, which has been open for business since the 50s. What else do you need?
WHERE TO STAY
Orloff is a small boutique hotel, which used to be George Orloff’s home, a traditional home near the harbour filled with flowers, old furniture and good taste.
Web: www.orloff.gr/
Bratsera Hotel, located 50 metres from the port, is housed in a renovated house built in 1750 and a factory that processed sponges.
Web: https://bratserahotel.com/
Hotel Miranda, which is an old mansion in Hydra, was built around 1810. It has also been proclaimed a preserved building by the archaeological service.
Web: https://mirandahotel.gr/
Mistral Hotel is a traditional island stone mansion, which is famed as one of the most sophisticated hotels in Hydra. The hotel is renowned for its warm and friendly hospitality. Additionally, each of the rooms at the Mistral is unique!
Web: https://www.hotelmistral.gr/
Leto Hotel has recently been renovated, preserving Hydra’s authentic architecture. The hotel is discreetly hidden in one of the most beautiful streets of the island.
Web: https://www.letohydra.gr/
HOW TO GET THERE
By boat or catamaran from the port of Piraeus.