Ask the Athenian "beau monde" about their favorite weekend getaway and chances are you'll hear Hydra. Reminiscent of the Cyclades, this picturesque island is only an hour and a half boat ride from the Greek capital. It is a laid-back destination; completely car-free with a few cozy seaside towns, barely a handkerchief in size and sparsely populated. In a unique location in a calm bay, you'll find the Mandraki Beach Resort. A stylish boutique hotel in a historic building, with the only (!) sandy beach on the entire island. Here you will unwind in an elegant setting and taste pure Greek cuisine. You will immediately understand why Hydra is a beloved film location and was the favorite destination of countless world stars such as Leonard Cohen and Maria Callas.
The hotel is open from April to October.
17 rooms.
Check-in is from 3pm. Check-out can be until 11am but they are flexible according to availability.
From 770 euro.
Mandraki Beach Resort is definitely a historic hotel. In fact, the 19th-century property was an important base of operations in the Greek War of Independence. The fleet of Admiral Andreas Miaoulis, who played a key role in the fight against the Ottomans, was stationed there. Ships were built there and went to war for Greece's regained glory. Today, fortunately, the atmosphere there is a lot more relaxed.
You'll find in all suites a TV with Netflix, a minibar (with one free refill during your stay), a coffee and tea set, hypoallergenic pillows on request, bathrobes and slippers. Bath products from French luxury brand Diptyque are provided. Each room has air conditioning, which is welcome during the hot Greek summers.
In the Tower Suite with private terrace and sea view, you will immediately get into maritime atmospheres. The room is very nicely and freshly renovated, with respect for the historical elements. Fancy sea views and your own swimming pool? Then choose the luxurious Beach Front Suite with Private Pool.
For a dip in the clear blue waters of the Aegean Sea, you only have to walk a few metres. On the private beach, enjoy the setting sun in one of the sunbeds. The Beachfront Suites have a private pool.
Massages can be arranged in the privacy of your suite. The hotel's concierge service is happy to organise all kinds of outings for you so that you really don't have to think about anything.
This hotel is adults only where everyone from 18 years old is welcome.
You'll find something for everyone on the menu, but seafood (grilled or not) is the speciality here. How could it be otherwise in such a location?
Bohemian Chic.
At restaurant Captain M, you taste daily fresh catches from local fishermen prepared in a refined way. The name, by the way, is a tribute to Admiral Mialouis. Breakfast here is also a real experience; think delicious feta cheese, fresh Mediterranean tomatoes, omelettes with olives and homemade Greek cake every day.
Mandraki Beach Resort is located in a sheltered, quiet bay on the island of Hydra. You'll find the town of the same name less than 3 km away. Hydra is a quiet island and cars are not allowed there. So you have to rely on smaller motor vehicles, boats or your hiking boots. You can also take a more traditional approach, as horse/donkey travel is not uncommon here either. Athens is about 60 kilometres away, or an hour and a half by boat.
Athens airport is the nearest. To get to Hydra, you need to take a ferry at the port of Piraeus.
Transfer possible on request for a fee.
Exclusive and small boutique hotel in a unique location. You will find the only sandy beach on the island, making it the perfect place to escape from everything.
