Welcome to Hydra: Copyright Kelsey Edwards 2008Step back in time, picture postcard perfect. Natural amphitheatre with cascading properties focusing on the main harbour. Churches and hundreds of private chapels, grand mansions some well maintained others in disrepair, shuttered houses. Very strong Hydriot identity, lots of history. Very social atmosphere. Good range of home owning expatriot nationalities most of whom spend 3-6 months living on the island. Good school system with above average university intake. Excellent walking possibilities. Poor sports facilities. Stony beaches. No nightclubs but does have half dozen music/night bars with music for dancing. Imported water in short supply especially in high season. Destination for 3 islands tours that stop off for an hour a day all year that keeps the tatty tourist shops going. Expensive and exclusive. Inadequate selection of upmarket restaurants to cater for expectations. With the exception of 3 or 4 municipal trucks (restricted to the coast roads), all cars, mopeds and motorised vehicles are strictly prohibited on Hydra. The entire island is designated a National Monument. Planning permission must be sought even for alterations to property. Renowned as magnet for artists and writers. One of the most expensive islands for real estate in Greece. Transport costs high. But even so a very desirable island to own property on, property keeps its value and increases year on year. Good all round investment.