Hydra, Greece
The 5 best boutique and luxury hotels in Hydra, Greece
Hydra’s most luxurious boutique hotels
There’s something irresistible about Hydra – an island where time slows down and days are measured in sunbeams, strolls along marble lanes and breezy aperitifs on the harbour. Part of the Saronic Islands of Greece, this is a place with no cars, no motorbikes, just the soft shuffle of donkeys and the clink of glasses in atmospheric courtyards. For us, Hydra is the kind of island that wins you over in minutes and staying somewhere special is part of the magic. The island’s boutique hotels are anything but ordinary – think Venetian mansions reimagined as design sanctuaries, beach retreats with toes-in-the-sand dining and historic townhouses brimming with old-world charm. Here are our favourite spots to check in.
Top photography courtesy of Hydroussa Hotel
01
Mandraki Beach Resort
Mandraki Beach Resort brings barefoot luxury to Hydra’s only sandy stretch – a rarity on this rock-and-pine island. Once a naval hideout, now it’s all about dreamy waterfront suites, salt spray mornings and lazy afternoons on striped loungers. The interiors whisper Mediterranean chic without trying too hard – blonde woods, cool linens and French windows that swing open to the bluest water you’ve ever seen. The Mandraki restaurant offers pure Greek island comfort food – grilled octopus, tomatoes straight from the garden and a bottle of chilled Assyrtiko await as the sun dips behind the hills. For those who like to switch off in style, there’s a spa, water sports and a private boat for exploring hidden coves. If you ask us, it’s the kind of place that makes you forget the world exists beyond the bay.
Mandraki Beach Resort
Mandraki Bay
Idra
Greece
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Photography courtesy of Mandraki Beach Resort
02
Four Seasons Hydra Luxury Suites
Far from the buzz of the harbour, Four Seasons Hydra Luxury Suites is the answer for those of us who crave a little peace with our sea views. This boutique retreat is set in a centuries‑old stone mansion, between the slopes and the sea at Plakes Vlychos beach. Each suite has its own character – weathered stone walls, hand-thrown pottery and big windows that welcome in the morning sun. The property’s allure continues with shaded sun loungers, snorkelling waters at your doorstep, spa sessions and a complimentary boat shuttle offering easy access to explore the island at your own pace. Don’t miss Tassia’s Tavern – an elevated taverna hidden under pines by the shore – where fresh fish, Greek classics and local wine shine.
Four Seasons Hydra Luxury Suites
Plakes Vlychos
Idra
Greece
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Photography courtesy of Four Seasons Hydra Luxury Suites
03
Hydroussa Hotel
Set in a neoclassical mansion on a leafy square, Hydroussa Hotel feels like stepping back to another era – one with vintage glamour, high ceilings and the gentle scent of jasmine drifting in from the garden. Built in the mid-19th century, the building once hosted royalty and film crews and its grand staircase, marble floors and antique mirrors tell plenty of stories. The rooms are elegant, mixing period details with fresh, simple touches – some have balconies over the rooftops, while others look onto the hotel’s peaceful courtyard. This courtyard is where breakfast is served, under the lemon trees, where the chatter of guests mixes with the hum of cicadas. This is a hotel with soul, ideal if you love a dash of old-world romance with your stay.
Hydroussa Hotel
Votsi Square
Idra
Greece
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Photography courtesy of Hydroussa Hotel
04
Orloff Boutique Hotel
Blink and you might miss the narrow entrance to Orloff Boutique Hotel, but that’s part of the fun. The building dates to 1796, originally home to Count Orloff and every corner oozes history. Inside, things feel airy and calm – honey-hued stone, hand-loomed textiles and original wood beams set the tone, while the secluded courtyard garden is perfect for breakfast or a quiet read. Each room is individually decorated with antiques, family heirlooms and modern art. Orloff offers the gentle pleasures of slow travel: conversations that last long past midnight, the simple luxury of quiet and a feeling that you’re living inside a family story.
Orloff Boutique Hotel
9 Rafalia street
Idra
Greece
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Photography courtesy of Orloff Boutique Hotel
05
Hydra Icons
If you’re the type who likes your hotels with a little irreverence, Hydra Icons is your place. Yiannis Retitagkos, who hails from Hydra and his Athenian wife, Kiki Tzanidou, converted the turn-of-the-century neoclassical house, previously owned by a seamstress named Dina, into an elegant, two-level boutique hotel. Hydra Icons turns the idea of a boutique hotel on its head – a playful guesthouse-meets-gallery filled with bold pop art, classic movie posters and nods to Hydra’s famous fans. Each of the rooms is inspired by a legendary icon (think Sophia Loren, Leonard Cohen), packed with art, graphic posters and killer views over the terracotta rooftops. As the sun starts to set, head to the top deck for 360-degree views of the town and harbour.
Hydra Icons
Sachtouri
Idra
Greece
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Photography courtesy of Hydra Icons
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