At Apnée, we love sunny stopovers . Our favorite hobby? Scrambling in swim shorts along steep paths overlooking the Big Blue. This Mediterranean Sea that we cherish so much and that we are so keen to preserve.

This month we head to Hydra, a chic and arty stopover

Located less than two hours from Athens, this Greek island, refuge of the famous singer Leonard Cohen, is a true haven of peace and will charm you.

Arriving by boat, the small port of Hydra is considered the most beautiful in the Mediterranean . The white houses overlooking the sea offer us a postcard landscape. Fishing boats mingle with holidaymakers' sailboats, in a joyful and authentic atmosphere.

<br><br> STOPOVER IN HYDRA
<br><br> STOPOVER IN HYDRA

Return to a Slow Life lifestyle

Since motorized transport has no place on the island, donkeys and mules are omnipresent and allow the transport of goods or inhabitants. This is one of the reasons why it is good to live in Greece, where respect for traditions is combined with a love of nature and eco-responsibility .

Behind the port, a maze of shaded cobbled streets adorned with the famous bougainvillea. The sumptuous white houses, a legacy of the island's rich past, which housed many shipowners in the 18th century, contribute to the town's serenity. Our blue Ondulations swimsuit will blend perfectly with the decor.

A gourmet break is a must at the Xeri Elia Tavern or at Paradosakio, where you can taste delicious Greek specialties.

Stop by the home of Leonard Cohen, who fell in love with the island (and Marianne) in the 1960s.

Don't hesitate to enter all the small churches and chapels that you come across, without forgetting to stop by the Rafalia Pharmacy, a true institution of the city, passed down for almost 150 years, from generation to generation.

Stay at “The Olive Trees House” for a charming stay.

What to wear when going out to dinner?

Just like Leonard and Marianne, a simple pair of pants and an ecru linen shirt will do the trick. At Apnée, we advocate casual elegance, beautiful natural and sustainable materials , and perfectly fitting cuts.

<br><br> STOPOVER IN HYDRA

The seabed: an inexhaustible source of inspiration

The next day begins with a trip to the sea.

The Hydra Dive Center will take you off the coast of the island to admire the seabed and cross paths with some dolphins.

Inspired by the film The Big Blue and the founders' passion for scuba diving, Apnée pays homage to the magnificence of the ocean floor. Discover our collection of printed swim shorts .

Upon your return, it's time to venture out on the many hiking trails. One of the most beautiful on the island leads to the summit of Mount Eros, which offers a splendid view of the sea. Along the way, you'll discover the Prophet Elias Monastery.


Before going back down to Mandraki, reach its pebble beach, eat at the Μανδρακι 1800 from the catch of the day.

One last dive before leaving?

The scorching afternoon heat invites you to take a refreshing swim in our beautiful recycled swimsuits. Our Puglia print is the perfect choice for Hydra, available in men's swim shorts and women's bikinis .

On the way back to Hydra, admire the small chapel of Ayia Foteini.
And soak up the warm, arty atmosphere of the city, which is home to numerous art galleries.


<br><br> STOPOVER IN HYDRA

Our addresses in Hydra:

- Airbnb The Olive Trees House
- Restaurant Taverne Xeri Elia
- Paradosakio Restaurant
- Restaurant Μανδρακι 1800
- House of Lazaros Koundouriotis
- Leonard Cohen's House
- Chapel of St. Kyprianos
- St Matrona Monastery
- Monastery of the Prophet Elias