BENSON ABROAD | HYDRA WITH YIANNA VELOS
We loved speaking with Yianna Velos, founder and CEO of @goldengrovesco about her connection to Hydra. Known for her authenticity and knowledge, Yianna shares all her tips from what to wear, where to eat, sunbathe and shop and all the things you need to know to live like a local on this magical Greek Island.
What do you do?
Founder of Golden Groves, a lifestyle brand retailing organic high phenolic Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Greece.
Can you share your connection to this destination?
I first visited Hydra as a child with my family and instantly had this strong pull to the island. There are no cars allowed on the island, everything must be carted by foot or by donkey. Hydra is only just over one hour away from Athens by ferry, yet is still less known or frequented by tourists. It has this old world charm to it as new buildings are strictly protected unless their design fully conforms to the neoclassical style typical of the island. Not only does this island have one of the best sunsets, it is a melting pot for different creatives and businesspeople, from Leonard Cohen to the founders of Coperni. It’s the quintessential “if you know you know” Greek island. Elevated, authentic, yet unpretentious. I come here every summer and dream of having my own house here.
If someone only had 24 hours in this city, what should they absolutely do?
1. Get Tiropita from Karagiannis bakery.
2.Shopping at Melisses Gallery
3.Coffee and Caesar salad at Spilia beach bar
4. Swimming off the rocks and watching all the superyachts coming in and out of the port.
5. A late afternoon cocktail at Hydronetta (the water here sparkles unlike anything else I’ve seen).
6.Finish with dinner at Xeri Elia - the best Greek tavern on the island
The ‘IT’ Hotel at the moment in Hydra.
I prefer to stay in town in Hydra as everything you need is within walking distance. Bratsera Hotel is in the heart of town and is an icon hotel on the island.
THE ISLANDS DRESS CODE?
Boho-chic. Everyone on the island is impeccably dressed in understated clothing. The island is well known for attracting fashion designers and leaders in the arts, so you will casually see people wearing the latest Miu Miu. Due to the cobblestone streets and no car policy on the island, you walk everywhere, so make sure you wear flat shoes.
THE ONLY PLACE FOR AN EARLY MORNING WORKOUT?
Hydra Flow Body Art (@pagona_paraskeva). Pagona hosts sunrise yoga to the most incredible view. It is really magical moving your body by the Saronic sea as the sun rises.
THE ONE PLACE ONLY LOCALS KNOW ABOUT?
Ostria is an amazing casual dining restaurant that serves some of the best food. Tassoula who owns the restaurant is sassy and hilarious, truly a character of the island. Notable things to order are the beetroot salad, octopus and zucchini fritters, but you really can’t go wrong here as everything is impeccable!
THE OUT OF TOWN GETAWAY WORTH MENTIONING?
You can take a boat for the day to another Saronic island called Spetses, which is another charming car free island rich in history. If you go, you must visit Hotel Poseidon.
THE RESTAURANT WORTH BOOKING IN ADVANCE?
Either Oraia Hydra or Sunset Restaurant. Oraia Hydra is located in the port and has one of the best seafood pastas I’ve had. It’s definitely great for people watching. If you want an experience that is slightly more elevated with the most incredible sunset, I would book Sunset Restaurant. They have all their fresh fish and catches of the day on display that the chefs can make to order.
THE BAR YOU ALWAYS END THE NIGHT AT?
Pirates, it is perfect for people watching. Hydra is a very low key island yet attracts an interesting and diverse crowd in the arts, fashion and literature. I’ll often spot some of my favourite fashion designers and writers on the island.
THE NEXT PLACE I’M HEADED TO?
New York! I really can’t go a year without visiting my favourite city in the world. It is always buzzing with so much energy and opportunity. You always feel invincible when you’re there. Not to mention, Fashion Week in September is the best week to be there.
WHAT I ALWAYS PACK WHEN I TRAVEL?
Sunglasses, my supplements and a mini travel sized bottle of my Golden Groves organic EVOO. I need to have one tablespoon of Golden Groves a day!
WHAT IS ONE REASON YOU LOVE VISITING THIS DESTINATION?
Every time I come to Hydra, I meet someone memorable that in one shape or form, changes or inspires me. Life for me is all about connection and relationships, so meeting such warm, soulful and inspiring people, to me, is a gift!
START PLANNING YOUR VISTIT TO HYDRA | LAUREN@BENSONBESPOKE.COM