About Hydra Island Greece
Where to stay, what to do and where to go on Hydra Island will depend entirely on the type of holiday you prefer. Hydra is one of the best Greek Islands when it comes to appeal across all age groups.
Towns & Villages
Depending on what you want from your stay on Hydra Island, this section will help you decide where to base yourself and what to expect.
Mules, Donkeys & Horses
Hydra has the largest herd of working equines in the world. They're essential for every aspect of life on Hydra But it's no Disneyland attraction.
Preservation Order
Every building is a monument to the 1800's. Even new building has to conform. No one, regardless of 'their walk in life' can avoid it!
Religion & Churches
Hydra is deeply Greek Orthodox. Monasteries, churches and chapels are everywhere even in the remotest areas Religion is the heartbeat of the island.
Municipality
Hydra has an elected Mayor and councillors. There is a town hall and one Greek Government appointed civil servant.
Coming Soon!
Fishing & Farming
Small scale sea fishing, olive harvesting & beekeeping are vital to Hydra's community.
Emergency Services
It may feel as though you've stepped back in time when you arrive on Hydra, but modern-day help is at hand in an emergency.
Utilities, IT & Comms
Hydra has no gas supply on the island. Everything depends upon electricity. Water is via our desalination plant. And we have one of the best phone and internet systems of any of the Greek Islands.
Education
As there are so many children, the island has state and private schools from nursery to high-school.
Community Clubs
Behind the scenes, Hydriots occupy themselves with a surprising range of hobbies when they aren't working.
Animal Welfare
Animal welfare is looked after by a number of charities. HydraArk is the driving force coordinating TNR sessions and Equine dentistry and blacksmithing.
Climate
Hydra weather; from a dry 44 degrees to a damp 4 degrees. Brilliant sunshine from April to October guaranteed (almost).
History
Welcome to the island that has produced great sea admirals and given Greece no less than five Prime Ministers.
Geography & Terrain
Rocky, dry, steep gullies with some pine trees. Sloping to the sea on the north coast but dramatic cliffs on the south side.
Arts & Culture
Since the 1930s, Hydra has attracted people who have been creatively inspired and their legacy to Hydra is its thriving cultural scene today.
Annual Events
Hydra has at least one annual event every month of the year. There's always something happening.
Flora & Fauna
You'll have to look hard but Hydra does have, pretty butterflies, praying mantis that look like they have come from space, cute geckos that wag their tails like puppies, yapping tortoises, zithering cicadas and loggerhead turtles. To name but a few.