Greece Travel Index/ Greek Island Guide/Saronic Islands/Hydra/Hotels

Hotels on Hydra

There are no giant hotels in Hydra because of the island's traditional nature which makes it against the law to build anything new. You can only restore existing buildings. But there are a number of smallish hotels in historical buildings, among them the Bratsera which is a converted sponge factory in the middle of town. In my opinion this is one of the nicest hotels in Greece and would be my first choice. The hotel is like a sponge museum and is full of antiques, photographs and yes...even some sponges. It has a beautiful swimming pool that looks like it came straight out of ancient Greece and a cafe-restaurant and a large room that can be used for workshops, dance, yoga or small conventions. Of course it has air-conditioning which is very helpful in August. It should cost about $100 a night for a double and if you can afford it then stay here. Otherwise there are several other hotels and all of them are nice and you will be just as happy in any of them. It just depends on how much you want to spend. The Sidra Hotel is a family run hotel in an old mansion conveniently located just 50 meters from the port. Another old mansion, the Hotel Mistral is just a 3 minute walk to the port and the swimming rocks and has a beautiful view of the sea. The Hotel Angelica is a VIP Boutique Hotel with a lovely garden and spectacular rooms decorated in the historic Hydra style. The Hotel Amaryllis is a family run hotel where you can actually use the kitchen to prepare your own breakfast. For more economy minded travelers the Hotel Aris, and the Hotel Hydroussa have doubles for under 100 euros

If you want to be outside of town the Mira Mare Hotel has a private beach and lots of watersports and activities, probably the closest thing to a resort on Hydra and has pretty reasonable rates.

Those combining Hydra with other islands, especially those not in the Saronic may want to use a Greek Travel agency to book hotels and coordinate ferries. For reliable travel agencies in Athens who book Hydra and the Saronic Islands see www.athensguide.com/agency.html

By the way...if you are coming to Hydra in June, July or August or over Easter book early because since there are few hotels they fill up quickly. If you try any of the above hotels and you find most of them are full on the dates you need and finally find one, book it. Chances are next time you look it won't be available.

For more Hotels in Hydra see www.hotelsofgreece.com See also Houses and Villas in Hydra