Hydra: Island of Asses

Before setting off for the islands, Rob and Beth researched which islands were the highest recommended and which could be accessed during the winter months. Hydra was one island that was consistently recommended and so it became their first island destination.

The Flying Dolphin

Hydra Downtown Taxi Stand

After trying to navigating through the puzzling myriad of ferry websites they took everyone's advice and went directly to Athens’ impressive Pireaus Port to find departure times and purchase tickets. At 9:00 am they boarded the "Flying Dolphin" for the one and one half hour trip to Hydra (ee-dra). When they arrived they were greeted by a row of donkeys and their keepers who inquired if they would like a taxi ride to their destination. Donkeys are the only means of transportation on the island as the islanders have elected to keep Hydra free of motorized vehicles.

Hydra Wildlife

Harbour Front Hydra

They declined the offer from the donkey owners and choose to roam around the cobbled streets of the main town of Hydra on foot. As they walked the narrow streets they were careful to keep out of the way of the donkeys, chickens, stray dogs, stray cats, and of course, the roaming edible escargot which are rampant throughout the Greece islands.

Feeding Time

Getting Around Town

As they climbed through the streets both were mesmerized by how the pristine, pale earth-toned houses stood out against the background of dark mountains and the turquoise of the Aegean Sea. It was difficult to stop taking photographs as each corner they turned seemed to reveal views that became more spectacular then the previous. They stopped every so often to gaze at the view or to drop a handful of dry cat food to feed the less fortunate looking strays.

Northern Exposure

After exploring the main town, they set off along the coastal path leading to the next 

En route to the next village.

village. Soon they came across a beach where they were drawn to the water and two elderly swimmers that swam in the surprisingly warm water. The beach was remarkably sheltered and the sun felt quite comfortable on their pale skin.  They soon realized that it was warm enough to swim in the inviting water. Although neither packed their suit for this November day, they made do with the undergarments they wore and soon joined the other two swimmers who, they learned, were native to the island.

Downtown Hydra

Fine Dining in Hydra

They hiked the hills throughout afternoon before eating an excellent dinner at a port-side restaurant. Lemon chicken and potatoes was Rob’s choice while Beth chose the interesting looking scorpion fish and the stewed young okra. After which they passed the time waiting for the ferry to take them back to Athens by sipping Ouzo dockside and marveling how the clear, colourless liquid turned milky white when ice was added.

Night View Downtown Hydra