Hydrea Exclusive Hospitality

We’ll be back to Hydra often now. Ilianna, the owner, won us over from the start with her warm smile, and the staff make you feel so welcome that it feels like friends are waiting for us here. I can’t find anything negative to say. The hotel is in a magical spot overlooking Hydra’s picturesque harbor, and I still can’t decide whether I love the morning sea view more or watching the town light up at sunset. Its impressive historic architecture brings to mind Hydra’s charming captain’s mansions. The high ceilings and beautifully carved ceiling inside still leave me in awe, even on my third year visiting. It’s easy to reach, with shops, restaurants and bars close by for a stroll. Hydronetta is just a 5-minute walk, so we could quickly get to the sea for a swim. Hydrea meets everything we expect from a hotel in Hydra. Hydra, I love you! Thank you to the Hydrea Hospitality team for so many relaxing, peaceful moments and that wonderful view we never tire of.

The hotel is lovely, with a fantastic spot right by the port and some great places to swim nearby. But the service was poor. The main staircase is long and very steep, and there’s no other way in. I’m in my mid 30s and found it hard to manage every day in the heat, so I wouldn’t suggest it for older guests or anyone who isn’t strong and fit enough for lots of stairs. We asked every day for staff to leave the aircon on while we were out, but they kept switching it off. When it was 37 degrees, we wanted to come back to a cool room after lunch. I also asked for coffee before a 7.30am work call and was told they couldn’t make it until 8am, which seemed crazy for a hotel at these prices. The barista got my usual coffee order wrong every day. The front desk girl was rude and unhelpful. She said a few times that her English wasn’t very good, which seems concerning when most guests speak English. At other times, it felt like she just wanted us to leave and not ask for help, even with restaurant reservations. We ended up organizing everything ourselves. Our 7pm tour was cancelled by the guide, who called the hotel, but nobody let us know. We only found out when we arrived at reception at 6.45. I hope they improve the service to match what they charge.

A historic property that works brilliantly as a hotel, with a fantastic city and marina view. You also avoid the 200 steps you have to climb at other Hydra hotels. The best on the island, absolutely. If you can afford it, look no further.

Hydrea has a wonderful position on the island, beautiful rooms with views and great beds, and common areas that are seriously impressive. I had an incredible stay. It’s certainly one of my favorite boutique hotels.