Visiting Hydra

Hydra has a distinctive charm that has drawn travellers from across the globe. The island is so popular that since 1950s a mix of world-famous artists, musicians and poets have passed through. Think Sophia Loren, Leonard Cohen, and many more.

An illustrious history

Hydra also has a rich cultural past, making it an incredible place to sightsee. There are a variety of museums to visit. The ruins of some 300 or so churches to explore, 6 monasteries to see, and many more interesting landmarks. Above all, all of them tell a story of the island’s history.

Prophitis Ilias Monastery – the only male monastery on the island

Among the many monasteries dotting the island, Prophitis Ilias Monastery is probably one of the most popular. Located at on the mountain slopes of Mount Eros, approximately 500m above sea level, the Monastery offers breath-taking views of Hydra and the Peloponnese coast.

The history of the Monastery

Prophitis Ilias Monastery was built in 1813 by thirteen monks from Mount Athos. It sits on the site of an abandoned chapel since the late 1700’s. The Monastery is probably most well-known for the role it played during the Greek War of Independence in 1821. It is where Theodoros Kolokotronis, a renowned war hero, was imprisoned for 4 months during the fight against the Ottoman Empire, due to a clash he had with Georgios Kountouriotis, an executive officer on Hydra.

Getting to the Monastery and what you will see

For the avid hikers, getting to the Monastery takes about two hours if starting off from Hydra’s port. If walking isn’t your thing, a donkey ride can be arranged. The Monastery consists of a main church and a courtyard surrounded by lovely building and stables. The grounds of the Monastery are looked after by several monks.

When open, visitors to the church can view the beautiful paintings, frescoes and other religions relics on display. The Monastery also has a refreshing water fountain for visitors to quench their thirst, and a selection of souvenirs to purchase for those wanting to get a little something to remember the trip by. The Monastery also maintains a rich library with a variety of manuscripts, which was established by the abbot Ierotheos Kostopoulos in 1870.

If you’re planning on walking to Prophitis Ilias Monastery, don’t forget to protect yourself from the sun with some sun cream and sun hat. Also make sure to take a break, as and when needed during the walk, and have water on you in case you get thirsty.

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There is a lot to do when you’re holidaying in Athens, not least of all taking an Athens one day cruise to three of the most beautiful Greek islands in the region, namely Hydra, Poros and Aegina. Day trips from Athens to the islands are a perfectly quick way of discovering more of Greece, especially if you’re an avid history buff with very little time on your hands to explore.

24 hours on Poros

Poros is culturally rich and has many places to visit if you’re a history lover. From its infamous Clock Tower, the Temple of Poseidon, the Holy Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi, the Russian Naval Base (declared a historical monument in 1989), and more, there is much to explore and learn.

The Archaeological Museum of Poros

A very interesting must-see on the island is also the Archaeological Museum of Poros. Built in the late 1960s, the museum can be found in Korizi Square, in a restored property that was once the residence of Alexandros Koryzis, Greece’s Prime Minister in 1941.

Many of the exhibits housed at the Museum are there thanks to the tireless work of Christos Fourniades, an archaeological enthusiast who spent many years collecting ancient relics from the region that went on to become the foundation of Museum’s numerous collections.

A wide range of historical finds

The Archaeological Museum of Poros consists of two floors, with exhibitions on both. Many items on display date from the Mycenaean period to Roman times. There are artefacts from all over the Trizina region and some from excavations in Hermione. There are also important displays from the areas Kalavreia and Methana, such as a large anaglyph with a dog representation, various ancient inscriptions with one dating back to 600 BC, a variety of statues including a statuette of Asklipios from Kalavreia, and several tomb steles, among others.

The Museum’s collection also includes Hellenistic figurines from Methana’s Agios Konstatinos, as well as other pieces such as bronze vessels, pottery and more from Hermione. You will find relics from several excavations at the sanctuary of Aphrodite Akraia; from excavations at the nearby Temple of Poseidon which was reportedly built in honour of Theseus, Poseidon’s son, after killing the Minotaur of Crete; and from excavations in Argolida Peloponnese. There are also pieces of old-Christian origin from the wider Trizina area which are considered an important part of the Museum’s collection.

So if you happen to be in Poros for even an hour or two, the Museum is definitely worth a visit!

Enjoy!

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The Aegina Annual Fistiki Festival

So popular are Aegina’s pistachios worldwide, the island even holds an annual festival every September, the Aegina Fistiki Festival. This 4-day event is held in honor of the much-loved pistachio buzzes with a huge array of fun activities such as music, theater, art and dance for you to enjoy! And of course, you can also indulge in some of the best-tasting pistachio treats on offer at the many stalls!

The festival is back for the 10^th consecutive year this summer and will be held on 13-16 September 2018 (11th Aegina Fistiki Festival 12-15 September 2019). The Municipality of Aegina organizes the Annual Fistiki Festival every year together with some of the islands local producers. Well worth a day trip from Athens!

The story of Aegina’s pistachios

It’s said that that the cultivation of pistachios on the island began in 1896. Local farmer Nikolao Peroglou planted a variety of nut trees on some of his land. The pistachio tree flourished the best. Sharing cuttings with other Aegina residents, the crop eventually landed on mainland Greece. The European Union declared Aegina’s pistachios a PDO (Protected Designation Origin) product in 1996, according to their regional authenticity and the traditional methods used to produce them.  Currently, Greece is the 6^th largest producer of pistachios in the world, and first in Europe.

What makes Aegina’s pistachios so delicious?

The island’s dry climate, temperature and soil, as well as the Aegean wind, together create the perfect environment for pollinating and cultivating pistachios. Harvesting usually takes place from mid-August to early September. A combination of all these elements brings about the distinct sweet flavor of this nut. Aegina’s pistachios are used in a variety of savory and sweet dishes. They’re also enjoyed on their own.

Thousands of years of global history

According to a wealth of historical records, pistachios originated in the Middle East. Said to be around since 7000 BC, they are mentioned in multiple historical and mythological tales. It is said that pistachio trees were planted by Nebuchadnezzar II, the former king of Babylon, in his hanging gardens. The Queen of Sheeba was also said to have banned commoners from growing pistachios for personal use as she regarded pistachios as a royal treat only. During Byzantine times, this delicious fruit nut was also often served as an appetizer, paired with wine.

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Zoodochos Pigi founded in the early 1700’s. This renowned Monastery is about 4 kilometres east of Poros town, in a gorgeously forested area of this picturesque island.

The foundation of Poros’ Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi

Historical records tell us that the Monastery was founded by Archbishop Iacovos the 2^nd . He was reportedly cured of lithiasis after drinking holy water from a nearby spring. Profoundly impacted by this life-saving miracle, the Archbishop proceeded to build the Monastery in the area where the miracle took place.

In 1733 a.d., this religious house was officially recognised as a Monastery under the jurisdiction of the Patriarch of Constantinopolis Paisios the 2^nd. This was further ratified in 1778 a.d. by Patriarch Grigorios the 5^th. The official document, duly sealed, evidencing this ratification is housed inside the Monastery.

A refuge during the 1821 Greek Liberation War

The Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi once served as a refuge for soldiers fighting in Greece’s war for independence. Many of the country’s great heroes arrived in the Monastery to pray and find spiritual solace there.

Ioannis Kapodistrias, the first Governor of an independent Greece, also founded the country’s first orphanage for children of soldiers who had served during the war. You could find  the orphanage within the confines of the Monastery, where 180 orphans reportedly lived.

The first Ecclesiastical School was founded in the Monastery in 1830

The first Ecclesiastical School was established at the Monastery by Governor Kapodistrias and had 15 students. Over time, the Monastery went on to draw many people of faith seeking spiritual comfort and solace in prayer. This included several monks who visited and took refuge here.

What you will find at the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi

The main church of the Monastery is a basilica comprised of a dome and tower (belfry). The tombs of war heroes Manolis Tombazis and Nikolaos Apostolis are kept aside the churches vestibule. The church also houses a beautiful 5-meter-high iconostasis. The iconostasis have been crafted in Asia Minor. Moreover, other exquisite religious icons can be found inside the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi.

There is a silver oil lamp in front of the icon of the Panagia that is on the right of the iconostasis. According to locals, the lamp burns in vigil as thanks for the miracle that the Panagia supposedly performed in 1990. The miracle happened, when after a long drought spell, Mother Mary listened to the prayers of the church’s religious figures for the rain to return.

Attached to the outer south wall of the church there is a sundial. Galaction Galatis created it, a priest-monk who was once a prior of the Monastery.

Poros is an incredible island with plenty of interesting places to visit, with the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi just one of many. So book your Athens day cruise and get exploring!

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From Anitseou to Mt. Ellanios to Paxia Rachi

This hike is about 4 kilometers long and while not the easiest, it’s certainly not the most difficult. Start at Anitseou village, head north west until you reach a road to your left – turn here. Continue walking until you come across signposts directing you to the ruined temple of Ellanios Zeus, located up high on Mt. Ellanios. When you reach the top, take a moment to enjoy what is a spectacular view. Then, head back down the path until you reach the main road and turn towards Paxia Rachi village. This hike is incredibly pretty, with stony paths and steep rugged landscape. You can also visit the nearby Valley of Elaiona, just south of Paxia Rachi. The valley is very scenic, more so because of the olive trees that you will find, several of which are more than 400 years old.

From Aegina Town to Kondos to Paleohora

Around 7 kilometers long, this trail is one worth undertaking for the great sites along the way. As you head for the village of Kondos, you will pass several churches including the iconic Agios Nectarios. Once you’ve reached Kondos, turn left and follow the slope, moving northward until you reach Palaiohora, a hillside medieval village dotted with the ruins of 38 beautiful stone chapels once numbering 365, and other old buildings.

From Paxia Rachi to Aegina Town

Head northeast from Paxia Rachi until you reach the main road and turn left. Keep walking until you come across Tsikides village. As you continue to Aegina town, you will encounter beautiful pistachio groves and other lovely greenery. The hike is about 7 kilometers long and relatively easy.

To Marathonas from Paxia Rachi

This hike is anywhere from 2 to 2.5 kilometers long depending on the route you take. Begin your walk heading westward from Paxia Rachi towards the coast.  The road meanders, so you’ll have the option of either moving north to Kapotides or continue to Marathonas, a lovely seaside destination.

Things to remember!

Make sure to be sun conscious, wear a sunhat and slather on the sunscreen. Also make sure to wear light clothing, comfortable walking shoes and carry a bottle of water so that you don’t get thirsty!

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However, a holiday in Athens is more than just a city adventure. Just consider how close it is to the gorgeous Saronic Gulf islands, each of which is distinctively unique in terms of beauty, history, architecture and culture. And none more so than the popular islands of Hydra, Poros and Aegina.

One of the best ways to experience these three islands is by embarking on an Athens one-day cruise. You’ll get to spend a few hours exploring each Saronic. You will learn a little bit more about authentic Greek island life, and discover parts of this breath-taking region that only a cruise can offer.

Hydra

Let’s begin with beautiful Hydra, one of the few islands in Greece where cars are not allowed and getting to and from anywhere is a matter of a scooter or donkey ride.  This low-key Greek island gem is renowned for its charming architecture, cobbled lanes and vintage backdrop. It’s also been the stomping ground for famous international and Greek artists, writers, singers and poets since the 1950s. These include the likes of Sophia Loren and Leonard Cohen. Greek artists and writers include George Seferis, Nicos Hantzikyriakos-Ghikas, Panagiotis Tetsis, Nicolaos Engonopoulos, and many others. Hydra remains popular among many of today’s European artists. Most of them have even moved to the island to pursue their art.

Aegina

Aegina is as popular for its archaeological landmarks. It is also known for its selection of beautiful golden beaches and is a weekend favorite for many visiting Athenians. What you may not know however is that the island is also world-renowned for it’s delicious pistachio nuts which have been growing on the island since 1896. In fact, Aegina’s pistachios were even declared a PDO (Protected Designation Origin) product by the EU in 1996. This is a testament to their local authenticity and traditional methods used to produce them.

Poros

Picturesque Poros offers an eclectic mix of historical ruins, interesting museums, lovely beaches, delicious traditional Greek cuisine and beautiful citrus forest. Comprised of two connected pieces of land, the beautifully forested Kalavria and the busy town of Sfairia, Poros has something to offer everyone.

It’s clear that an Athens vacation can be something more than just city exploration.  Combine it with an island-hopping cruise, if only for just a day, and enjoy an unforgettable experience!

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Departing from Athens

As you board the ship, you will be welcomed by a live orchestra playing a mix of traditional Greek music and other global hits. A gorgeous breakfast will be served on-deck, consisting of tasty Greek foods, accompanied by fresh fruit, yoghurt and delicious locally made honey. Once you’ve finished your breakfast, take the time to soak up the sun, and take in the sweeping beauty of the Aegean Sea, as you sail onwards to the islands.

 A variety of exciting activities

There is something to do on all three levels of the Platytera ton Ouranon. This includes taking in some live music, participating in Greek dancing and relaxing in one of the ship’s many salons. In addition, you can shop at the onboard tax-free store which carries a wide selection of renowned Greek and other globally renowned brands, and so much more. Once you’ve experienced everything on offer, indulge in a complimentary lunch buffet. It is comprised of a delicious selection of authentic Greek and Mediterranean food, which you can enjoy with some local wine.

Island-hopping across Hydra, Poros and Aegina

Spending some time on these beautiful islands gives you a very good idea of what Greek island living is all about. With Athens Day Cruise

Hydra, Poros and Aegina each have a multitude of archaeological sites to visit. You can explore museums, architectural sights and natural beauties that are spectacular. If you opt for one of Athens Day Cruise special interest tours of Hydra and Aegina, you’ll get to see as much of what each island offers within the time that the Platytera ton Ouranon is docked. With just a few hours to spare, our guides will make sure that you get the most out of every minute.

So, book your Athens day cruise, and make sure you get to experience the islands because you’ll regret it if you don’t! You’ll be creating holiday memories that will last you a lifetime!

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So, book an Athens one-day cruise and experience some of the best trails that these two gorgeous Greek islands have to offer:

Hydra

From Kamini to Episkopi

Leave Hydra town and head west to Kamini, taking the coastal road. This popular fishing village is where sailors have been coming for some 300 hundred years to fix their boats or store them if need be.  Once you leave Kamini, continue to Vlihos. For the history lovers, visit the church of John the Baptist as well. From Vlihos, keep walking until you cross a 17^th century bridge to Palamida. This charming seaside village is renowned for its beauty. From Palamida, move on to Episkopi, reportedly the site of a Byzantine village. Of course, each hike from village to village can be enjoyed on its own, especially if time is of the essence.

Kiafa and Agios Athanasios

Kiafa is one of the oldest towns in Hydra located high above the island’s port and a great place to explore. From Kiafa, head to the seven windmills situated on the hill of Agios Athanasios. The view here is spectacular!

Zourvas Monastery

Start by taking a water taxi to the steps leading up to the monastery. Although a challenging hike, the panoramic views once you’ve walked the steps to reach the monastery make it well worth the effort. At the top, take some time to take in the scenery, before walking back to Hydra town. As you head back, explore some of the historical sites along the way, such as the Profitou iliou chapel and the St. Nicholaos, St. Matronis and St. Triada monasteries.

Poros

Poros Town to the church of Ag. Anargyroi

Take a walk up through Poros Town, taking in the wonderfully coloured houses along the way, leading to the ruins of an old windmill. From there, walk to the church of Ag. Anargyroi where you will get to experience the breath-taking sweeping views of the island.

Temple of Poseidon

The walk to this 6^th century BC temple is beautiful.  Located on the northern part of Poros, walk from the Sinikismos (once inhabited by refugees from Asia Minor) and follow the road to the Chapel of Our Lady Agia Zoni. As you keep walking, you will encounter the Chapel of the Prophet Elias, and finally you will reach the Temple of Poseidon nearby. This Doric styled temple was once the epicentre for addressing civil and religious matters for many of Greece’s city states. Although now in ruins, one can almost imagine what this sanctuary once was.

As always, be sun conscious! Take bottled water and some snacks with you, and wear sunscreen. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and lose fitting clothing to protect you from the sun. If hiking on Hydra and Poros gets you tired, take a break!

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1. Soak in the architecture

Hydra is one of those places that you can get lost in and not want to find your way out. Its exquisite architectural charm draws you in. The cobbled lanes and alleyways, the beautiful three and four storeyed stone manors. Thirdly, the brightly coloured shutters, windows and doorways. Take the time to explore this captivating hillside town, it’s well worth exploring.

2. Take in a museum or two

Hydra has a fascinating history, much of which is evidenced in the collections housed by several museums on the island. For instance, Hydra’s Ecclesiastical Museum is in the Church of Assumption. Therefore, is located at the port contains several Byzantine icons, jewellery, manuscripts, and other historical relics. The Historical Archives Museum is located in a beautifully renovated stone mansion and keeps many religious, educational and cultural archives from the early 1700s to 1865.

3. Go on a walking tour

Go on a walking excursion organised by Athens Day Cruise. You will visit a number of the island’s historical landmarks such as the National Merchant Marine Academy established in the 18th century. In addition, the statue of Admiral Miaoulis is located at the entrance of Hydra’s harbour, famed for his role leading Hydra in the fight against the Ottoman Empire at the start of the Greek War of Independence. Furthermore, a traditional patisserie founded in 1930 and which is famous for its delicious macaroons. In conclusion, the family run Rafalia’s Pharmacy which opened its doors in 1890, and is today still regarded as one of the most beautiful pharmacies across the globe.

4. Visit some beaches

You can’t visit Hydra and not explore at least some of its beaches. About 2km west of Hydra town is Vlychos Beach, a lovely pebbled beach that’s perfect to go to if quiet is what you’re after. Near Vlychos village is the charming Kaminia Beach which is popular among families with children. The gorgeous Agios Nikolaos beach, a sheltered sandy beach located in a cove, is within walking distance. Similarly is Spilia, not so much a beach but rather a rocky area with rocks from which people can jump into the dazzling water below.

5. Try the local cuisine

Hydra has a great selection of tavernas serving up traditional Greek dishes that you must try at least once!  From gorgeous fresh fish grilled to perfection, to decadent appetizers like tzatziki. You can taste stuffed peppers or vegetables wrapped in airy, crispy puff pastry and other plates like moussaka, fried calamari, and so much more.

While this list doesn’t contain everything one can do on beautiful Hydra, it should make it easier to decide what to see if your stay on the island is a relatively short one.

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There are several islands close to Athens and all you need is about a day to explore them. Athens Day Cruise for instance offers a one-day 3-island cruise to Hydra, Poros and Aegina that will offer a fantastic respite from your city adventure.

Still not convinced? Then here are our top 5 reasons why you should go on a one-day cruise from Athens!

1. A glimpse into Greek island life

The nearby islands of Hydra, Poros and Aegina need just a few hours to get to by boat.  And when you embark on a one-day three island Athens Day Cruise, you’ll get to island hop these beautiful Greek islands in less than 24 hours, and briefly experience what Greek island living is all about.

2. Making friends with global travelers

As you sail from island to island, you’ll get the opportunity to meet other passengers on board, many of whom come from different parts of the world. Strike up conversation, connect with other people as you sail across the gorgeous Aegean Sea, and who knows what unexpected friendships you could establish!

3. A variety of onboard activities

With Athens Day Cruise, you will enjoy a fantastic selection of fun onboard activities such as tax-free shopping, salon treatments, live Greek music, Greek dancing and much more!  And by joining in the fun, chances are you’ll meet other people with similar interests, making an already exciting trip that much more interesting.

4. No planning required

Holidays can be stressful when you’re trying to put an itinerary together for a destination you don’t know all that well. This isn’t the case with Athens Day Cruise’ 3-island tour. Eliminate all the hassle by joining one of the special interest group excursions on Hydra and Aegina. Led by multilingual guides, they will make sure that you get to explore as much as possible for the time that you are on each island. You can also get some great advice on what to see on Poros.

5. Family friendly

A cruise is a great way to spend some time together as a family, exploring new places, creating unforgettable memories. Athens Day Cruise are an affordable way to discover three incredible Greek islands, with much fun and excitement to be had, both onboard and off.

So, book your cruise, keep your camera handy, make sure you have a bathing suit, comfortable clothes and walking shoes, and enjoy everything the next 24 hours has to offer!

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