What to Do While Visiting Hydra
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Whether you are only visiting the island of Hydra for a few hours, a few days, or even more, don’t let the island fool you. Even though it is a small island, there is no shortage of things to do while here! One of the things that really sets this place apart from the rest of the Greek island escapes is that there are no automobiles on the island. If you want to get around, it has to be by foot, donkey, horseback, or boat taxi.
Because Hydra is an easy day trip from Piraeus, there are a lot of people here during the daytime, but they leave by the time the last ferry departs the island to bring them back to the mainland. So, what brings people here for the day or a more extended trip? Here’s a list of the things you absolutely need to do while here:
Take a Tour
One of the best ways to get an overview of all the things there are to do on Hydra is to take a tour. However, since there are no automobiles on the island, your tour will have to take place by foot, donkey, or horseback. You can take a simple foot tour of Hydra Town or take a guided tour on a donkey or horse, which will enable you to see more of the island. Once you arrive on the island, ask around for the best tour options. Although they are all fairly easy to find (many tour companies advertise at the port), some may deliver a better experience than others.
Go to Saint Nicholas Beach
Are you looking for a convenient beach that is worth spending the day at? Many people take a day trip to Hydra for the sole purpose of visiting Saint Nicholas Beach! Although you will need to take a water taxi to get to the beach, the 30 minute trip is well worth it. The beach is a bit secluded, but it is a perfect spot for relaxing and swimming. Since it is a bit off the beaten track, it’s also not very crowded. There is, however, a beach bar and taverna that you can lounge at after you’re done sitting on the beach itself.
Visit the Lazaros Koundouriotis Mansion
The Lazoros Koundouriotis Mansion is a great example of how people lived on Hydra a hundred years ago and earlier. Now a museum, the mansion is conveniently located near the port. Since this museum also has a low entrance fee, it is well worth the hike up the hill in order take a look at some of the exhibits. Lazaros Koundouriotis was the brother of Georgios Koundouriotis, a hero in the Greek War for Independence.
Hike Mount Eros
If you have about four hours or more once you are on the island, you should take the time to hike Mount Eros. Many visitors report that it takes 4-5 hours when walking at a moderate pace and stopping to take pictures. The effort, however, is worth it because the views are amazing.
While on the island of Hydra, you don’t want to miss doing these activities!
Categorized in: About Hydra, Greece, Greek Travel Guide
This post was written by Greek Boston
