Day 11: Epidavros

Boat to Hydra Island

We drove to the harbor, our last time in a motor vehicle for two days, as there are none on Hydra Island. We took the ferry and sailed into the idyllic port of Hydra. The harbor was packed with colorful boats, small taxi's to large yachts, with a backdrop of scattered white buildings, abundant outdoor restaurant seating, working donkeys and cats.

The Greco Hotel was up an uneven cobblestone hill, members used a luggage service. Which meant a hand driven cart, packed with suitcases, by one strong man! The hotel's garden terrace was splendid. Canopied trees over flower pots galore, plants, tables, chairs, and sweet decor with a warm beige stone paver floor. Lapis blue shutters. A haven of tranquility and charm to relax and unwind.

We settled into our room after enjoying fresh juice, then lunch at ...and Onion. Excellent pitas! Friendly service in a cool, cafe setting. After, we walked along the water at the port. People were laid-back, the shops inviting. The lack of motor vehicles made for carefree strolling. We ate gelato, bought souvenirs, Ziana found friendly cats...a sublime afternoon!

We enjoyed a fine dinner at the sophisticated Mikra Agglia. Steve, Rachel and Leo had beef cheeks with handmade pasta, Ziana the sea urchin with fresh pasta. The delightful, wake you up espresso martini did just that! But not for the sleepy cat who was curled up on a nearby chair.

We were once again led by the spirited guide Patty. We visited the Archaeological Museum first, which houses incredible ancient artifacts, including advanced medical instruments and stone tablets with ancient writings. The site was originally built for Asclepius, the god of healing. Through science and innovation, the center attracted ill patients from all over the world for care. The site is considered by some to be the birthplace of modern medicine.

Then to the crowning jewel of the site, The Theatre. The acoustics are flawless, a sound made in the center of the stage can be heard clearly at any seat in the stadium. Actors simply speak normally, and their voices are amplified to even the highest seats. We got to experience this ingenious feat. Steve and Leo climbed to the highest seats, while Ziana and Rachel sat at the bottom. Patty clapped, then Aiden spoke a personal poem. We heard everything perfectly! Modern concerts are held here, the sound quality must be impeccable.