Hello, Lykkers! Have you ever dreamed of an escape where time seems to slow down, where the only sounds are the clinking of glasses and the soft clip-clop of hooves?
Hydra, a gem of the Greek islands, offers just that—a place where cars are absent, and life is navigated on foot, by boat, or atop the sturdy backs of mules. It's an island where the journey itself becomes part of the adventure.
No Cars, Just Charm
As the ferry from Athens draws closer to Hydra's harbor, the first sight that greets you is the sparkling white houses cascading down the hillside, their beauty heightened by the warmth of the sun. Yet, there's something distinct about this island—the absence of cars. Not a single vehicle in sight. Instead, locals glide gracefully along cobblestone streets, aided by donkeys and mules. This is Hydra's charm: a place untouched by modern traffic, preserved by a law from the 1950s that keeps it car-free, just as it has always been.
Visitors quickly realize this is no ordinary Greek island. On Hydra, it's not about rushing from one spot to another. It's about exploring narrow alleys, winding up steep hills, and embracing the slow rhythm of island life.
Life on Horseback
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to explore an island on horseback? On Hydra, this is not just a fantasy, but a reality. Harriet Jarman, who moved from Buckinghamshire to Hydra when she was just 10 years old, now offers guided horse-riding tours. Her stable is home to over 1,000 horses—each working to transport both locals and visitors through the island's rugged terrain.
Harriet tells stories of elderly women carrying bags of shopping as if the weight of the world was light as air. She even recalls the time her son had to learn to walk at just 18 months, simply because there were no cars to help carry him.
Horseback riding not only makes exploring the island easier but adds a layer of serenity, offering an unparalleled view of the cliffs, monasteries, and the deep blue Aegean. For those craving adventure, Harriet's tours lead up to ancient monasteries, past scenic mule tracks, and along cliffside paths where every step is a new discovery.
A Peaceful Way to Explore
While horseback rides offer an exciting way to explore, walking is equally rewarding. Hydra's landscape is not one that demands haste. Whether it's strolling back from a swim at Plakes Beach or wandering through hidden streets, the quiet beauty of the island immerses you fully in the moment.
The town of Hydra is a beautiful mix of old-world charm and natural beauty. Whitewashed mansions, once owned by wealthy shipowners in the 18th century, still stand tall, overlooking the sparkling sea. On the north coast, Hydra's five-mile stretch of cliff paths invites explorers to take in breathtaking views of the Peloponnese.
No Rush, Just Relaxation
Hydra's appeal isn't just in its beauty; it's in its unhurried pace. Without the hustle of vehicles or the noise of busy streets, the island feels like a sanctuary from the modern world. Here, even the sea feels quieter, as if nature herself has decided to take a break.
Take a seat in one of the beachside cafes or enjoy a quiet meal in a hidden tavern, savoring fresh seafood and local specialties. The absence of cars isn't just a convenience; it's a deliberate choice that enhances the island's peaceful atmosphere.
5 Things to do on the Island of Hydra, Greece
Video by DW Travel
A Timeless Escape
As the sun sets over Hydra, casting its golden glow across the sea, the charm of the island lingers. In a world where everything seems to be moving faster, Hydra is a reminder of the beauty found in stillness and simplicity. It's a place where the journey is just as important as the destination, and where every step taken is an invitation to slow down and enjoy the world at a different pace.
For anyone seeking tranquility and a break from the ordinary, Hydra is more than just a destination—it's a return to the essence of time itself. So, how about it? Will Hydra be your next escape?
