Island hopping in the Saronic Islands - Poros, Spetses and Hydra

Day 1 - Arrival on Poros

On arrival at Athens Airport, transfer to Piraeus Port and onto to Poros (60-75 mins).

Our accommodation on the island is centred in either the port town of Poros or Askeli, 2km from the port and home to a lovely sandy beach.

Overnight on Poros.

Poros, The Saronic Islands, Greece

Day 2-3 - Explore Poros

Hugging the coastline of the Peloponnese, Poros is actually two islands combined by a small bridge. The larger isle, called Kalavria, is covered with pine and olive trees and edged with inviting coves, rocky shores and some sandy bays. The small islet is Spheria - volcanic and rocky, on which the tiered town of Poros is built, a delightful maze of narrow streets lined with traditional whitewashed houses and vibrant cafes.

From anywhere along the west and southwestern coast rewarding panoramic vistas of the mainland can be enjoyed. We would recommend an organised day excursion to the classical sites of Epidavros, Nafplion and Mycenae on the mainland.

Overnight on Poros.

Poros, The Saronic Islands, Greece

Day 4 - Transfer to Spetses

Set sail for the elegant island of Spetses (90 minutes from Poros), steeped in maritime history and exuding an air of sophistication. It is known as a retreat for wealthy Greeks, as evidenced by the discreet walled villas and yachts in the marina.

Your accommodation will be in Spetses Town, a most attractive settlement with whitewashed bougainvillea-strewn houses, wide piazzas and a pretty old harbour.

Overnight on Spetses.

Spetses, The Saronic Islands, Greece

Day 5-6 - Explore Spetses

Spetses is a car free island, minus the handful of authorised local taxis. Transportation is instead by horse-drawn carriage, bicycle, water-taxi and moped; yet, at only 10 square miles, it could be argued that the best transportation is that of our own two feet.

Life is centred around the old harbour and the quaint alleys of Dapia, the new port. Outside of the town, you'll be greeted by local farmers herding their goats amongst the green hills, olive groves and pine trees, the tinkling of bells the only sound to disturb the natural calm. Hidden coves and sandy beaches such as Kaiki are waiting to be discovered.

Overnight on Spetses.

Kaiki beach, Spetses, The Saronic Islands, Greece

Day 7 - Transfer to Hydra

Conclude your adventure on the car-free island of Hydra (30 minutes from Spetses), a haven for artists and writers - Leonard Cohen, David Gilmour and Axel Jensen are among those attracted by its laid back Greek lifestyle and cerulean waters.

Overnight on Hydra.

Hydra, The Saronic Islands, Greece

Day 8-10 - Explore Hydra

Wander through the labyrinthine streets of Hydra Town, where traditional stone houses and neo­classical mansions create a picture-perfect scene. It is considered one of the most beautiful towns.

Unlike Spetses, all forms of motorised transport are banned on Hydra. This has allowed nature to flourish and the many, well-maintained marked walking trails encourage wider exploration of the island's meadows and farmlands, particularly beautiful in spring when peppered with wild, fragrant flowers.

Overnight on Hydra.

Hydra, The Saronic Islands, Greece

Day 11 - Day of departure

Transfer by hydrofoil to Piraeus port (2 hrs 20 mins. to 3 hrs 15 mins.) and then onto Athens Airport for your return flight to the UK.