General information about the island of Hydra
Strengths:
Points of interest, suitable for families with children.
Average:
Sea and beaches, prices, crowding, nightlife.
Weaknesses:
Excursions, connections.
- Capital: Hydra
- Population: 3000
- Area: 52 km²
- Port: Hydra
- Airport: no
- Public transportation: no
- Car and motorcycle rental: no
- Campsites: no
Hydra (Greek: Ύδρα), also known as Idra, is an island in the Argosaronic Gulf located between Poros and Spetses, close to the Peloponnese coast. It is only accessible by sea and is 37 nautical miles from Piraeus.
It covers an area of 52 km² and has around 3000 inhabitants.
The island is elongated with high cliffs and barren hills. The highest point on Hydra is Mount Eros at 592 meters. The island is not fertile, so its inhabitants mainly rely on fishing and tourism. Local craftsmanship mainly consists of ceramic or terracotta items, silver jewelry, and lace.
The capital is Hydra, where the island's port is located.
Hydra was once populated by refugees fleeing Turkish persecution who, finding themselves in a resource-poor environment, turned to piracy and smuggling. Later, the pirates became skilled captains, and nowadays the island is mainly frequented by artists and wealthy tourists: in summer, the port is full of yachts from all over the world.
Hydra has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is forbidden to travel around the island using motor vehicles. The public transport service along the cobbled streets consists of donkeys and mules. To reach various seaside locations or beaches, taxi-boats can be used.
