TRAVEL GUIDE: THE ISLAND OF HYDRA
Literary curator Josh Hickey knows that this remote Greek paradise is the only place to be this summer.
Sometimes, all you need to do is stop, look and feel, and luckily, summer always returns to give us that wonderful opportunity. To travel, to let ourselves be surprised by new places and to have the time to experience them to the full. To immerse ourselves in the people, the landscapes, the traditions... Without rushing. At our own pace.
This is precisely what MANGO Slow Summer celebrates: the pleasure of not watching the clock and the luxury of being able to connect with the beauty of the most authentic things. This is something that writer, editor and literary curator Josh Hickey knows a great deal about, as he enjoys a true slow summer experience in his daily life in this Greek paradise. He is the founder of the Hydra Book Club, a project rooted in the longstanding tradition of reading and writing on this remote island, the very same that serves as the backdrop to our summer event.
If you’re not sure where to go on holiday, look no further: Hydra is the place to be. It’s not just us saying so; Josh himself assures us of this, having created this travel guide exclusively for the MANGO Slow Summer experience. Read on and discover everything you need to know about the island’s most iconic symbols and spots.
OMILOS
Now an elegant restaurant on the edge of the harbor, Omilos has some of the most spectacular views of anywhere on the island. It also has a storied past as it was once the home of the legendary nightclub Lagoudera which saw the likes of Aristotle and Jacqueline Onassis, Maria Calls, Brigitte Bardot, Melina Mercouri, and John Lennon twirl on the dancefloor.
HYDRA BOOK CLUB
The Hydra Book Club has been both honoring the 100 year literary legacy of Hydra and activating the contemporary scene for 6 years now. The bookstore has a selection of new, vintage, and rare books, features works by contemporary artists, and is a favorite hang out for locals and visitors alike.
DONKEYS
An island with no cars, Hydra relies on its beloved donkeys to transport goods and people up the steep steps that climb up the village slopes. They have become the mascots of the island, are often adorned with colorful beaded necklaces, and are treated with much care and respect.
DESTE
The contemporary art foundation presents site specific art installations in the former slaughterhouse of the island each summer. The opening weekend in June draws glitterati from around the world and is a social and cultural highlight of the year. The artists Jeff Koons’ sculpture, Apollo Windspinner is a permanent fixture of the island and can be enjoyed all year.
TSAGARIS
The Tsagaris family has been making cakes and special sweets on Hydra since 1930. Try the famous Amygdalota- small almond sweets snow capped with sugar that are typical of Hydra. Ask the ever charming Dimitris Tsagaris for a tour and a taste.
WINDMILL
The windmill was made famous in the first Hollywood movie to be filmed in Greece, The Boy on a Dolphin which stars Sofia Loren. In the film, the actress’ character lives in the windmill, and now just beside it is a commemorative sculture of a boy on a dolphin. It is now a favorite sunset spot.
OLD CARPET FACTORY
The elegant mansion high above the port boast the largest windows of the island - and what a view. Once a true carpet weaving atelier, it is now a private home and recording studio where many renowned musical artists return each year to record and experiment with the collection of new and vintage instruments. If you are lucky enough to be on Hydra for the open house or a rare performance you can enjoy a privileged moment in the ballroom and garden.
PORT
The elegant mansion high above the port boast the largest windows of the island - and what a view. Once a true carpet weaving atelier, it is now a private home and recording studio where many renowned musical artists return each year to record and experiment with the collection of new and vintage instruments. If you are lucky enough to be on Hydra for the open house or a rare performance you can enjoy a privileged moment in the ballroom and garden.
SPILIA
The rocks of Spilia that descend in terraces to the sea is the favorite swimming spot just beyond the harbor. Children, adults, locals and visitors all enjoy the scene of the rocks and the clear turquoise water.
BOAT
The traditional caïque is as much a symbol of Hydra as the donkey. Colorful and playful, they remain real working boats for fishing and transportation. Hydra has a history of boat and ship building and this is the living heritage of that era.
Now you know everything you need to know about this Greek island, in the words of Josh himself. All that’s left is to book your tickets and get ready to enjoy the most authentic slow summer experience.
