Hydra Geography

The island of Hydra lies between the Saronic Gulf and the Argolic Gulf and is part of the Saronic Islands, along with Aegina, Agistri, Poros, and Spetses. Hydra is located south of the Peloponnese and, in fact, its history is strongly connected with the history of the neighboring mainland. The island is situated approximately 5 nautical miles from the southern end of Argolis peninsula and 40 nautical miles from the port of Piraeus. Hydra is an elongated island, with an area of 50 sq km and a coastline of 56 km.

The geography of Hydra is rocky. The island has many hills and mountains, the highest being Mount Eros, with a peak at an altitude of 600 meters. The Zogeri range of mountain lies to the south of Hydra and the Ombari range to the north. A few inlets or natural harbors are located along its western coast but despite the length of its coastline, only a few anchorages are available due to the depth of the seabed dips. The eastern coast is less severe. In ancient times Hydra was covered with pines and had plenty of water (the island owes its name to this abundance of water).

Today, the island is barren and imports its water by tanker from the Peloponnese. The permanent population is around 2,100 people and is concentrated in an area of 3 km that has the capital town as its center. The capital is Hydra Town which is also its main harbor.

Discover the Map of Hydra
View the map of Hydra with the main villages, beaches, and sights, as well as the location of the port.
View: Map of Hydra