The Best Things to Do in Hydra, Greece

Just 100m (330ft) from Hydra’s main town, known as Hydra Port, Avlaki Beach provides a bit of a respite from the slightly bigger crowds of Spilia Beach. This choice might not be as ideal for small children or people with mobility issues, since you’ll have to go down a steep flight of stairs to get to the sheltered cove. But the private, undiscovered feel of the small beach and bathing platform is worth it – as is the deep, clear water.

Bisti Beach is on the far side of the island, almost 10km (6mi) from the main town. It’s accessible by water taxi, which runs on a set schedule, or you can catch the put-put from in front of the clock tower. The shoreline, which gently slopes into shallow water, makes this beach a great choice for families with kids – and as an added bonus, it’s well-known for its snorkelling.

Dream of seeing Greece by bumbling horseback? Now’s your chance, with Harriet’s Hydra Horses, a tour group you can use to book gorgeous treks to see the beaches, chapels and monasteries, the countryside and more. If you’re feeling especially daring (and need to cool off), don’t miss the bareback ride in the sea. The organisation boasts year-round availability and a trek for every age and ability level. For the real Harriet’s experience, make sure to call or text ahead – the trekking company is not affiliated with the horses found at the harbour.

The best place to learn more about the rich history of this island is through the Museum of Hydra’s Historical Archive, which boasts about 20,000 original manuscripts, documents and books that will give you valuable insight into Grecian culture and tradition. Moving into the museum itself, you’ll find traditional dresses, weapons from multiple wars and even the figureheads of ships. This museum is right on the water, so make sure to catch the view after you’re done.

Just five minutes’ walk from the port, Spilia Beach Bar is, true to its name, right on the beach, making it the perfect perch for a pre- or post-dip drink. Light and casual Mediterranean fare is served on a large stone patio, complete with massive straw umbrellas. Steps lead right down to the water, or you can watch fancy ships move out to sea.

Originally a mansion occupied by a wealthy and powerful family during the Greek War of Independence, this stately yellow building was donated by the family to become the National Historical Museum. It still retains much of its splendour, and its exhibits fit with the theme of each room. Its contents include paintings by the Greek artists Periklis and Konstantinos Byzantios, as well as heirlooms belonging to the original family.

The Prophet Elias Monastery is 500m (1,640ft) above sea level and well worth the two-hour trek from the city centre. Established in 1813 by 13 monks, this is the only male monastery on the island and was actively involved in the Greek Revolution of 1821. If you would like to see the Agia Efpraxia nunnery as well, take the path for the nunnery when you reach a junction near the top – it’s a small detour.

Mount Eros is on the way to the Prophet Elias Monastery, so you can easily package them into one trip. The 20km (12mi) hike from the Hydra city centre will take about four hours – set out earlier rather than later in the day to avoid Greece’s most oppressive afternoon heat. Take the path to the monastery until you spot the sign and don’t forget to pause and enjoy the view, including of the wildflowers, along the way.