Hydra is one of the beautiful Saronic Islands of Greece, located in the Aegean Sea close to the Saronic Gulf and the Argolic Gulf. In this picturesque Greek islands, motor vehicles are prohibiten by law, thats why you would not see any cars in the streets, the only ways to trans- port are the famous donkeys, on foot or via boats.
In Hydra there are plenty of thing to do, yo can go visit Lazaros Koundouriotis Historical Man- sion, this is museum of history of Hydra, and is placed in the mansion of Lazaros Koundou- riotis called 'Father of the Nation' because he played a important role in the Greek War of Independence.
If you are into horses you should visit Harriet`s Hydra Horses. Harriet Jarman is an ex-British Army and resident of Hydra since childhood. She offer ten different itineraries, the length of the excursions varies from 45 min to 6 hours, and are for all the ages to child and adults.
The bastions of Hydra are a must go in Hydra. During the 18th century these can- nons were placed by the Greeks to protect themselves to the Turkish fleets. Fortunately, they were not used much as the Greek fleets did a good job of protecting the island. The bastions can still see today to the left and right of the harbor. This is the best spot to see the sunset, and appreciate the breathta- king view of the Aegean sea.
Hydra have a lot of beautiful beaches like Bisti, is a small beach pebble, here are orga- nized a lot of sportive activities like scuba diving and snorkel, which are good choices. The rocky and clear coastline of Hydra are perfect to snorkeling and scuba diving because you can find a lot of reefs and underwater caves, there are also a lot of old wrecks such the famous Dokos shipwreck. Discovered in 1975, is the oldest known underwater shipwreck discovery, probably dated from as early as 2200 B.C.
Other beautiful beach is Kaminia placed between Vlihos and Hydra Town, this is a small fishing port. This little towns is very safe and have clear waters that makes the beach ideal for families with children. Spilia in Greek means 'cave', this is a rocky area on the west side of Hydra Harbor, this is a swimming rocky area with concrete platforms that is the the closest public 'beach' in Hydra Town. Here you will find clear crystals water of a nice deep blue color, ideal for diving. Also there is a coffee snack-bar called 'Spilia' as the beach. This bar have outdoor seating with fabolous views of the sea and of Hydra Harbor.
On of the events more know of Hydra is Miaoulia. Celebrated in the last week of June in remembrance of Admiral Andreas Miaoulis, who was a hero of the War of Independence, during all the week a lot of activities take place all over Hydra, like concerts, folk dancing and boat races, the festival ends with a beautiful show of fireworks.
There are a lot of good restaurants in Hydra that should not miss. Kondylenia is one of the most popular restaurantes in Hydra, is located in harbor of Kaminia. Here you will find Greek cuisine. The restaurant is inside a fisherman's house, is right in front of the beach providing a beautiful view. This restau- rant is popular for wedding receptions. In the bay of pebble Mandraki is placed Mira Mare a mediterranean cuisine restaurant that is part of the wellhotel, a beautiful place to eat and appreciate the sunset. Bratsera is part of a hotel located in Hydra Town, here you would enjoy Greek dishes of the best quality.
This little island of Greece will charm you, all the picturesque pebbles, the beautiful views, amazing colors of the waters and the incredi- ble dishes. Don`t miss it.