Villas and Apartments to Rent on Hydra Island, Greece

Welcome to our selection of holiday homes to rent on Hydra Island, Greece.

In an age where tourists leave their mark everywhere, the Hydra Island is a holiday destination that seems like it can never be spoilt because of its surreal beauty. A visit to this picture postcard location promises to leave you with an out of the world experience.

Start with Hydra town, which has been built amphitheatrically around the islands main harbour. It is full of beautiful mansions with colourful doors and windows. Motorised transportation is forbidden and it actually looks like a jewel unspoilt by hotels and modern architecture. The cobblestone alleyways and streets make up the roads and help to circumvent the place. In fact this retains the old world charm beautifully. There is a three-storied church tower that was built several centuries ago, besides many old churches, stone windmills and quaint buildings. Also worth seeing are the museum and the old mansions. The sunsets from Hydra are unforgettable.

Close by is the small fishing hamlet of Kaminia. It is as beautiful as the main town, but without the buzz. You can take in the beauty of the place and enjoy some fresh fish in the excellent taverns. Naturally, spectacular beaches are one thing you will never lack here. Walk down to the Vlichos beach to enjoy the small pebble beach and the crystal clear waters. If you want a rush of adrenalin, head to Spilia, a lovely place where there are rocks from which you can dive into the beautiful blue waters.

Move on to the Museum of Historical Archives where you can see ancient manuscripts, paintings and ship models, besides other exhibits. The bastions of Hydra have cannons that were used to protect the town. These can be seen even in the left and right side of the harbour. The National Merchant Marine Academy is the first naval academy in Greece and was set up in 1749. You can explore the legacy of Greek maritime here. If you happen to be visiting the place around May 1st, you can see many flower festivals that take place all over the country. People also decorate their doors and windows with flowers and the place turns into a visual treat. The carnival time before Lent is also a great time to visit, as the town takes on a festive air.

The absence of vehicles and modern buildings, along with the beautiful buildings, colours, beaches and spectacular views retain the old world charm of Hydra and turn it into a place ideal for an unforgettable holiday.

Looking for self catering holiday accommodation on Hydra Island? Then below is a selection of apartments on Hydra Island and villas on Hydra Island that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.

Things to do

The Museum of Historical Archives

In an elegant stone mansion, located at the port of Hydra Town is The Museum of Historical Archives. The Museum is home to many different maps, old books and manuscripts from the Greek Revolution. They also hold various educational, religious, administrative archives. There are also relics available for viewing from the Two World Wars, Balkans War as well as Carvings and painting works.

Port of Hydra

The Port of Hydra is the main town of Hydra Island, which is a popular tourist destination. Due to the port, travel to and from mainland Greece through Athens is easy, and regular boat trips are available every day. The Port itself has no motorised vehicles other than boats; donkeys, water taxis and bicycles are the main methods of transportation.

Monastery of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary

Built in the 18th century, the Monastery of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary is located in the waterfront of the Port of Hydra. It was partially built using marble blocks that had been originally used to build the Temple of Poseidon on Poros. Now it is a popular tourist sight, as it can be seen from quite a distance.

Beaches

Although most of the Beaches aren't the main attraction because they have a lot of pebbles there are some that have soft, golden sand. Molos, Palamida and Kaminia are known to have the nicest beaches on the island, but due to the negative impression left by the others the sandy beaches are fairly empty of people, allowing you to rest, relax and get some peace from the busy main city.

Hiking

Outside of Hydra Port, there aren't really any other cities, just small settlements and the odd bar in the middle of nowhere. Most of the island is free to be wandered, with many coves and historical sites to be found, scattered all over. Some coves and sites are as recent as the first and Second World War, but others stretch back further to the Greek Revolution and Battle for Independence. The Hydra Islands have always played a large part in Greece's History, as well as other countries such as Britain and France, because of their part in Naval Warfare.