The first time I set foot on Hydra was 6 years ago. It was one of those offbeat late-Augusts when I wasn’t up for much adventure—just needed a breather. Little did I know, this tiny island would become my fav getaway. Now, it’s like an annual ritual—sometimes once, sometimes twice a year. Hydra has this magnetism that keeps me coming back. All the spots I love are always there, just as I left them, yet each visit offers a different perspective.
Back to reality now and fighting off those post-holiday blues, I thought I’d share “my Hydra” with you. Here’s my personal guide to the island along with some 'very demure very mindful' outfits—because, let’s be real, I couldn’t fit my entire wardrobe into a small sac-voyage.
Talking about “blues”…
My beachwear edit: MAAN Sabine one-piece swimsuit in cobalt blue shade + The Artichaut bucket hat by Jacquemus in dark navy + Gold charm bracelet (here) + Classic large basket bag from Portugal (find similar styles here) + Baggy Levis denim jorts, ideal for layering the swimsuit + Classic BIRKENSTOCK Arizona sandals + Blue swimming goggles, as the underwater world of Hydra is too good and busy to ignore
#1 SWIMMING
Paralia Avlaki is my favourite on Hydra. Not your typical beach—it's more of a deck where you can jump straight into the deep blue. There’s also a hidden corner up on the rocks, shaded by two pine trees, where you can take in the whole scenery. If you want my spot, get there early—before I do.
Hydra is the kind of place where you’ll walk 13,000 steps a day without even thinking about it (no cars, just donkeys and cobblestones). You’ll easily read two books in a week—shoutout to Josh Hickey from Hydra Book Club and his fantastic collection of new, vintage and rare editions (trust me, the Wi-Fi is practically nonexistent on the island). And eventually you'll become an art aficionado with all the art spaces and exhibitions to check out.
Here comes the Sun
Between us, I’m not a fan of Jeff Koons, but I have to admit, this giant sculpture is simply magnifique! His 9.1-metre gold wind spinner resembles the Sun god Apollo, while the gold button embellishments on my INTI blouse are inspired by the Incan Sun God, Inti. So really, can you think of anything more fitting for the occasion?
#2 CULTURAL THINGS
Somewhere between madness and loneliness, George Condo's exhibition in DESTE PROJECT SPACE a.k.a. Hydra’s ex-slaughterhouse, features small-scale paintings and sculptures of society’s outcasts—figures that are hauntingly abstract yet curiously human.
Another art spot I highly recommend to visit, is the Tetsis Home & Studio (a classic Hydra house from the 19th century). The space is exactly as he left it when he passed, unfinished works and all. Cozy, authentic, and full of Panagiotis Tetsis’ warmth.
Hydra’s a total artistic hub, so whenever you visit, just try to keep up with what’s happening.
#3 PEOPLEWATCHING
One of my favourite things to do on Hydra is to grab a spot in the front row at The Pirate Bar, right by the port, and indulge in some people-watching over an affogato. If you stay on Hydra for at least 3 days, you’ll start noticing something intriguing—you’ll keep spotting the same people in different situations (it kinda feels like you’re in a Poirot episode).
#4 SOUND-CHECK
Housed in a stunning 18th-century mansion, the Old Carpet Factory is owned by Stephan Colloredo-Mansfeld—a descendant of Austrian nobility and a collector of rare musical instruments. Stephan is a fantastic host, so definitely ask him for a tour of the space. A decade ago, he transformed his ancestral home into a haven for his passion—music. What was once a working carpet factory is now a Recording Studio and Art Residency, offering the most majestic views of Hydra’s town and a lot of inspiration.
*You need to book your visit by email.
#5 TASTY STOP
Restaurants you'll love:
Marina’s tavern in Vlychos, a family-run gem since 1963. Fried wild red mullets, boiled horta greens, ouzo and stunning views of a small bay where you can catch a water taxi to the port.
Il Casta is all about fresh Italian pasta, pasta, and more pasta.
Téchnē is where you go when you want more than the usual. A "twist" on Mediterranean cuisine, stunning sunset views, and a picturesque courtyard for the night.
Pefkaki in Kamini is a charming little spot tucked behind pine trees. They serve slow-cooked meals made with local ingredients daily until 17:30.
Isalos for good breakfast.
* Pro tip: book everything in advance!
#6 IN-BETWEEN
At some point, you'll inevitably need something from the pharmacy—whether it's a toothbrush or some paracetamol for that inevitable hangover. That’s your chance to visit the historic Rafalias Pharmacy, one of the oldest in Greece.
While you're nearby, don’t forget to pick up some of the famous Hydra almond sweets from Tsagkaris. They’re the perfect local treat to take home.
There's also the Gardenia open-air cinema in the town. It only screens a limited selection of movies, but if you’re lucky, you might catch a classic—maybe even a Hitchcock in July.
#7 GREAT VIEWS
Sunset catching? A bit overrated if you ask me, though I know it’s everyone’s favourite summer activity. But if you’re set on catching a good one on Hydra, head to the west side of the island—just follow the cobblestone path from the port. If you’re after a negroni with your sunset, the new Windmill Bar is where you’ll want to be, but honestly, any bench on that side will do. For a panoramic view, find yourself a high terrace in Hydra Town, like the one at Hydra Icons or the veranda of Lazaros Kountouriotis’ historical mansion.
If you’re into hiking, there’s an incredible route about an hour from the port that takes you up to Prophet Elias Monastery. From there, you get a breathtaking view of everything—the island of Hydra, the Aegean Sea, and the Peloponnesian coast. If you’re feeling adventurous, keep going for half an hour more, and you can even reach the summit of Mount Eros. Just make sure to do your hiking in the afternoon when the sun’s not so intense. Wear SPF 30 sunscreen, keep iced water handy, and go for light, comfy clothes. A ‘1’ T-shirt + ‘2’ shorts are ideal for this.
#8 DRINKS
By night, all the action on Hydra centers around the little square in front of Amalour Bar. If you can’t find a seat there, no stress—there are a couple of other bars around. But trust me, Amalour serves the best espresso martinis in town.
A night-out edit: My forever favourite ΥΣΤΕΡΝΙΑ black dress + Gold jewellery + Scanning stare, searching for an empty spot to sit at the bar area
#9 CIAO, HYDRA!
Until we meet again.
Well, that’s all from me. See you in the next one.
x