Hydra, one of the Saronic Islands of Greece, located in the Aegean Sea, has one main town, known simply as "Hydra port". It consists of a crescent-shaped harbor, around which is centered a strand of commercial establishments (restaurants, shops, markets, and galleries), all of which cater to tourists and locals. Steep stone streets lead up and outwards from the harbor area.

Le Soleal arrived mid morning and during the day we explored the island taking the coastal walk from the port to Castello Hydra where we lounged on the rock beach and had a swim and then we went onto Vlychos Beach where we caught a small boat back to the port.

As the ship wasn't departing till late that night it was the perfect opportunity to take a look around the town and find somewhere for dinner. Number one on our list was somewhere where we could try some authentic Greek dishes.

We headed up into the small streets that wind their way back from the harbour to the hillside when we came across this lovely looking spot and decided to enquire if there was a table for two.

Paradosiakon Taverna - Hydra. One of the prettiest tavernas in Hydra serving traditional Greek food cooked in the traditional way and served with traditional Greek hospitality. Not to be missed.

We were greeted by Christiana Kitsou, who we later found out was a member of the family who runs the restaurant, and she offered us a table on the patio.

As you can see by the pictures above it is a beautiful spot and the food was authentic, delicious and we absolutely loved it. The service and setting was perfect and after our day in the sun we relished every minute of the meal.

At the end we were full and happy but more was coming. Apparently the grandmother of the family concocts a brew from the leaves of a local plant and we were offered, on the house, a serving of her liquor.

We chatted with Christiana about the restaurant and she took us into the indoor area and introduced us to her family. We expressed our pleasure at finding such a wonderful place to eat and thanked them for the food they had cooked for us.

(left) Christiana Kitsou, (right) Takis Kitsos, (top) Matina Kitsou, (bottom) Marianna Rousi

I couldn't leave without shooting a 360˚ panorama where we dined and Christiana and Marianna were persuaded to pose in the photograph. I promised to post it and let them know when it was online, so here it is. I'm sorry it took so long to do but I hope they enjoy it.

(Above) Christiana Kitsou and Marianna Rousi.

For more information on Paradosiakon Taverna, visit the Hydra website.

For information on getting to, staying in and sightseeing around Hydra, visit Kelsey Edwards HydraDirect website. It's a very comprehensive catalogue covering all aspects of Hydra.

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Tony Redhead