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Hydra,
maintains its own peace and rhythm, not to mention architectural
style. It is probably the only place where not only cars, but
motorbikes and bicycles are prohibited. Hydra, with its fresh
ocean air and sparkling blue waters is the ideal place for vacation,
for it combiness the beauty and peace of a unique scenery,
with a great selection of night-life for those who so please.
With its unique character, the narrow paths and the houses it
has a certain charm which attracts many artists.
Places To Visit
Mansions
Hydra is famous for its traditional picturesque architecture,
where the visitor can enjoy old stone mansions still standing
strong. Some are used as public service bureau. The Tompazis
mansion had been a School of arts and is now a quest house
exclusively for art students. The Sahtouris mansion now shelters
the National Merchant Marine Academy, the first Marine Academy
in Greece.
The Koudouriotis mansion has been acquired recently by
the Greek ministry of Defense and is currently being renovated.
Other famous mansion are the Voudouris, the Voulgaris and the
Rafalias.
Churches - Monasteries
The nearest church, right in the center of the harbour, is the
Metropolis of Hydra, Assumption of the Virgin Mary, distinguished
by its tall prominent clock tower, with the church's bells that
announce religious events. There are also other churches with
beautiful domes supported by marble arcs, like Agios loannis
and Ipapanti.The newest church on the island is Agios Konstantinos
of Hydra, which is built upon the Saint's old family house.
This is an elaborate church with wooden sculptures and a gold-plated
temple. Among the multitude of churches on the island, there
are also a number of monasteries and convents, like the monastery
of Prophet Elias, and convent of Agia Efpraxia, both lying on
the top or mount Eros - 500 meters height. You can make your
visit here, either by a lovely one-and-a-half hour hike, or
a rnerriorable donkey ride. Other monasteries are Agia Trias
(Holy Trinity), and Agios Nikolaos: and convents are Agia Matroni
and the convent of Zourva.
PLACES
TO MOOR
Hydra Main Harbor If you want to tie in the main harbor
I suggest you get in early, especially on the weekends as it
is a favorite for the Greeks. Care must be taken when they are
N-NW winds and you should opt for the N mole. Due to the harbor
is overcrowded in the summer it is usually for yachts to be
three out from the quay. Crossed anchors are a common event
so dont be surprised. Water is available on the quay, as well
as provisioning.
Mandraki
This bay is located ? of mile E of Hydra. It is a nice bay
for a swim There are taverns ashore. The bay is fairly sheltered
except to northerly winds. Petassi - There are several small
coves in the area that can be used.
Ag.
Nikolaos This is a beautiful bay with nice surroundings
and crystal clear water for a swim but can only be used in calm
weather.
Nisis
Dhokos A barren island SW end of Hydra. The winds in the
channel vary and usually die down. A safe anchorage which is
well protected.
Beaches
Kaminia, Molos, Palamida and Bitsi are some of the sandy beaches
of Hydra. Hydra is better known for the rocky beaches. Swimming
in such waters is a unique experience.
Sports
The island is suitable for all kinds of water-sports.
Night Life
Hydra offers a wide variety of pubs, bars, restaurans and taverns.
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