Hydra Island: Where Every Corner Tells a Story
After leaving the relaxing days at Ios Island behind, I traveled to Hydra Island. Eager to explore, I decided to visit a monastery situated up in the mountains. The journey up the mountain was scenic, with breathtaking views that made the climb worthwhile. However, when my guide from the tour and I finally arrived at the monastery, we were disappointed to find it closed due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Despite the closure, I didn’t let the moment pass without capturing its beauty. I took a photo from the backside of the monastery, framing the serene and peaceful surroundings. The tranquility of the place, even from the outside, was truly captivating. The moment was a reminder of the beauty that can be found even when plans don’t go as expected.
Embrace the Tranquility of Hydra Island
A Journey Through Time and Nature
I signed up for horseback riding to visit the monastery, which was about a 45-minute ride to the top of the mountain. As I mounted the horse, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. The path was narrow and winding, with steep drops on one side, offering breathtaking views but also a sense of danger.
As we ascended, I maneuvered the horse carefully, guiding it along the rocky path. The horse seemed well-trained and steady, but I couldn’t shake the fear that it might get tired or spooked and throw me off. I kept a firm grip on the reins, trying to stay calm and focused.
Reaching the top was a relief, and the view from the monastery was absolutely stunning. However, the descent back to town proved to be even more challenging. I had to lean backward to maintain balance, which felt awkward and made me even more anxious. Every step the horse took seemed precarious, but we eventually made it back safely.
The experience was exhilarating, a mix of beauty and fear, and I felt a great sense of accomplishment by the end of it.
I had the pleasure of meeting Harriet, and she mentioned she couldn’t guarantee if the monastery would be open. During my visit, I saw six horses that were well-fed, big, strong, and clean. It was clear they were well taken care of. I rode a horse perfectly suited to my weight and height, although I can’t recall the horse’s name.
If you’re ever in Hydra, I highly recommend signing up with Harriet’s Hydra Horses. You won’t regret it! They offer a variety of activities, and you can choose the ones that interest you. I had an absolute blast—it was so much fun!