Things to do in Hydra for couples

Τhis idyllic Saronic Gulf island is a special place that resides somewhere in between the folds of time. Hydra is abuzz with the sounds of local life, nature and a nostalgic sense of romance, by default. Things to do in Hydra for couples are plentiful, for you can spin a romantic narrative from the island’s every utterance. Be it the song of the cicadas or the chirping of birds, the lapping of the waves as they gently hit the shore and the leaves rustling in the invigorating sea breeze; even the voices of the locals in the background, greeting each other, and visitors, with a heartfelt, “kalimera”. One sound you will definitely not hear is that of motorized vehicles, for Hydra relies on the horse carriages, bicycles, mules and water taxis for the transport of people and goods throughout the island. 

Hydra island’s charming waterfront harbour cascades down with a flurry of multicolored stone mansions, some of which stately captain’s manors intertwined with quaint shops with a rustic feel, perfectly encapsulating its romantic vibe. It is by all accounts an ideal place for love to thrive and Leonard Cohen’s infatuation with the island is a testament to that. There are several things to do in Hydra to create an ambience that is conducive to getting closer to one another. To that end, Mandraki Beach Resort wields an assortment of arrows in its quiver that aim to serve as cupid,  so if you’re on your way to this slice of heaven with your loved one, read on and find out more.

Things to do in Hydra for couples: Romantic Saunters 

One of the quintessential things to do in Hydra is to saunter it. Many of the buildings in Hydra are fin-de-siecle, which makes for a wonderful trip down nostalgia lane. Observing them, you will find that they interchange between simple dwellings and grand buildings, a mixture of austerity and frugality with clean, aristocratic elegance. The island’s capital town showcases an alluring and rare blend of insular and landlubber architecture. So, grab your partner’s hand and walk along the narrow cobblestone streets and alleys. Count the impressive captain mansions  amidst the various whitewashed houses festooned with colorful bougainvillea, and the veritable parade of felines lazying around every nook and cranny, waiting for you to take a snapshot of them. 

While you amble about the picturesque dreamscape, look around and admire the local curios, least of which is Rafalia’s fascinating pharmacy; an 1890 drugstore that has maintained and upkept its original decoration to the effect of walking inside a time-warp. One more notable mention is the Monastery of the Assumption of Virgin Mary, built in the 17th century. In fact, Hydra has over 300 churches, so if you’re in the mood to explore, you will surely be rewarded.

Things to do in Hydra for couples: Island Explorations

If activities on the island interest you and your other half, then one of the most fitting things to do in Hydra as a couple is to hike up the aptly named Mt. Eros, meaning ‘in love’ in Greek. It is the highest point on the island, clocking in at 500 meters above sea level. It boasts spectacular views of the Aegean Sea, as well as being home to the monastery of the Prophet Ilias. It is an easy to intermediate route in terms of difficulty and, depending on your hiking skills, it may take you between 1,5 and 3 hours to complete. Feel free to ask us about suitable activity recommendations for your fitness level. If you want a totally serene hike, we suggest you go in the morning hours to enjoy the soft sunshine too.

Now, if you wish to soak up as much of Hydra’s identity as possible, you may enjoy exploring several of its dainty villages that are scattered around its periphery, most of which are easily accessible by foot. Several hiking trails crisscross the island, while many others intertwine, connecting to settlements such as Vlichos, Kaminia, Molos, Kiafa and Mandraki. There is nothing better for bonding than exploring new places, and these villages exude an effortless authenticity that immediately grabs you. What’s more, because most daytrippers spend most of  their time around the port, nearby villages like Kamini and Vlychos are, for the most part, devoid of big crowds. Alternatively, you may choose to visit a few coastal settlements by way of water taxi. 

Things to do in Hydra for couples: Serene Beachside Moments

If you opt to stay at Mandraki Beach Resort, you will experience several benefits. Our private bay is a historical one, linked to Admiral Miaoulis who chose this secluded bay as a sheltered shipyard over a century ago. Our bay is the only sandy enclave on the island, forming part of the hotel’s beachfront, just one cove over from the main port. At Mandraki beach, we invite you spread out and fully unwind, taking in the tranquility that prevails while you savour on the delights of our Beach menu’s comfort food dishes with a dash of panache, and enjoy our attentive service. 

The beach can take on another capacity too, if you so wish - we offer private and group yoga retreat classes in Hydra island that can be held on the beach and the result is a complete and utter relaxation of the mind and body as you synchronize your energy to the rhythmic sound of the waves. If you prefer absolute privacy during your yoga session, then it can be arranged in your suite. Just let us know and we will make the necessary arrangements.

Things to do in Hydra for couples: Candlelit Seaside Dinners

For guests at Mandraki Beach Resort, a world of culinary joy beckons at the resident Captain M Restaurant. A romantic dinner under the starry Aegean skies is a surefire way to cradle the flame of eternal love. The menu is best described as Mediterranean-fusion, inspired by Greek gastronomy with an emphasis on fresh seasonal ingredients on an a-la-carte basis. The array of dishes have been created to appease even the most discerning of palates while if its Sushi you have a craving, you are in for a treat. Our talented chefs roll up a storm of Japanese varieties that will tingle your taster buds. Regardless of the culinary route you decide to take, you are securing a sensational evening full of delectable flavours at one of the best restaurants in Hydra.

For couples, there are numerous things to do in Hydra, many of which require a minimum of energy expenditure, as the island packs a whole lot of charm within a compact space. From its singularly captivating picturesque capital town and walks along the promenade, to romantic candlelit dinners by the sea and soothing yoga classes for two on the beach, couples and lovebirds have everything going for them. 

As is the case in Greece, life flows to the rhythm of the beat; and the beat in Hydra is a lulling downtempo. So take this opportunity to come closer and enjoy intentional time together with your loved one as you eat, drink, swim and experience through one of the classiest Greek islands that enchanted so many.