It has a single town, no real roads, no cars and not even any bikes. Water taxis take travelers from the charming little harbor to secluded beaches and tavernas. Hydra is well-known – in 1956, Sophia Loren filmed "Boy on a Dolphin" here, putting the island on the international map.
In the following years, many Hollywood stars, including Leonard Cohen, added the island to their vacation lists. Turkish Airlines (THY) operates four daily flights from Istanbul to Athens, Aegean Airlines offers three and Pegasus Airlines has two. From Athens airport, you can reach the port of Piraeus, where the ferries depart, with a 45-minute taxi ride.
Hydra Island is a short 1.15-hour ferry ride from the port of Piraeus in Athens. Besides being a holiday destination, it's also a popular day-trip spot for locals from Athens.
You can also reach the island from various other Greek islands throughout the day via different sea vessels. Mandraki Beach Resort is the island's only 5-star hotel. It consists of 17 suites, each with its own pool and a prime seafront location, making it a delightful boutique hotel.
Before owner Arthur Fitzwilliam turned it into a hotel, the building was the home and naval base of Adm. Miaoulis from the 19th century. It's an ideal place for a peaceful and restful vacation.
Everyone on the island, including the hotel staff, has adapted to the island's slow-paced lifestyle. Waking up in your room and taking five steps to dive into the cold sea is one of the best feelings. T.
