37.2 Paris

 

STAY

The Hydrea Hotel is steeped with history, with its high ceilings and original features dating back to the early 19th century. Located in the heart of Hydra’s port, it has the most breathtaking view of the island. The breakfast menu changes daily with a fresh offering of local produce. With only eight rooms available, it’s the perfect haven of peace right in the heart of the island. 

 

SEE

The George Condo “The Mad and the Lonely” exhibition at the Deste Foundation presents a selection of the American’s artist paintings and sculptures. A brilliant curation in this amazing old slaughterhouse. The space is open daily from 11am to 1pm and 7pm to 10pm. We’d recommend going whilst it’s still day light, to catch a sighting of the infamous Jeff Koons sun sculpture, spinning in the island‘s wind.

 

The Hydra Book Club will reopen at the Historical Archives Museum of Hydra on September 1st. Created four years ago, the Hydra Book Club celebrates the island’s longstanding history with writers and artists and serves as a literary hub for everyone living on or visiting the island. Each year a new conceptual theme is explored through research, presentation of new literary work, readings and events.

 

Hydra has a small, open air Cinema Club showing a great curation of films every day throughout the summer. 

 

The Old Carpet Factory is an incredible Artist Residency home and is well worth a visit. The current exhibition, The Warp of Time, is a tribute to the mansion's unique history as a carpet-weaving factory, looking back at 100 years of history exploring memories, heritage and creative expression.

 

SWIM 

Avlaki beach, a quick 10 minute walk from the port, has the most incredible camaïeu of blues and turquoise water, simply breathtaking. It’s wild beach with no facilities, the perfect place to relax and swim. 

 

Head to Spilia beach for the closest place to swim from the port. The sea is a hue of deep blue, dive from the rocky platforms and swim with endless views of the surrounding islands. We loved going for an early morning pre-breakfast swim, before the waves from the boats come crashing in. 

 

Jump on a boat from the main port and sail over to Saint Nicholas beach in 30 minutes. This pebbled beach is tucked away in a cove on the south side of the island. The water is crystal clear, warm and smooth. The beach bar has great, friendly service, good local fresh food and a banging playlist.

 

SHOP

Rafalias Pharmacy dates beck to the late 19th century and is well worth a visit for it's incredible display of antique apothecary paraphernalia, curated selection of home scents and locally made balms.

 

Jean-Paul Lespagnard just opened a Showroom Escale for the summer, featuring a very cool selection of his latest collection, some new collaborations with Greek artisans and a selection of eclectic objects.

 

EAT

Ostria just off the main port has incredible fresh fish and traditional Greek cuisine. Tasoula runs the restaurant with a wicked sense of humour and a touch of attitude. She’ll serve you litres of great house wine and sit at your table for a chat at the end of the night, whilst her husband is in the kitchen cooking up an absolute feast. The octopus is knock out. 

 

Pirofani Taverna is tucked away from the port's hustle and bustle and is run by the friendly Theo. The homemade food is fresh and the short menu changes regularly depending on local produce available. 

 

Téchnē is one of the most sought after restaurants on the island, run by the incredible chef Yannis Michalopoulos. The menu is an ode to Greek cuisine, focusing on seasonal and sustainable ingredients - a real treasure!

 

DRINK 

L’americano is the perfect place for a nightcap. This swanky new bar just opened a few weeks ago, the espresso martini and spicy margaritas are delicious. 

 

Hydronetta at sunset is the best spot a pre-dinner drink and a last swim with the most breathtaking sunset view. 

 

The Pirate Bar is a local institution for a reason. Go anytime of the day, whether for a coffee, a beer or a glass of wine, you’re bound to bump into someone you know, or just met the night before at this hotspot on the port. 

 

DANCE 

Hop between Amalour and 1821, two intimate bars located on the same small square just off the old port. Both bars come to life after midnight with great playlists and a fun atmosphere.

 

Omilos is a beautiful seafront restaurant that turns into a club at the weekends during the summer. Be sure to check out the programming in advance and book a table to secure your spot.