The Hidden Manor

A truly authentic property brimming with the style of the Neo-Classical period, sensitively restored and providing a unique setting on one of the most beautiful and charming islands in Greece.

Built in the 19th century, The Hidden Manor is tucked away within the streets and walkways of Hydra. It is easily accessed, about a five minute walk from the harbour and without having to climb the many steps that most inhabitants of Hydra do on a day to day basis. The property is spacious and airy, comfortable and well equipped with a mixture of antiques and contemporary decoration that blends to make a very peaceful and aristocratic setting.

One striking feature of the house is the Loggia – an indoor/outdoor room which has the most wonderful views to the harbour on one side and the mountains of Hydra on the other. The loggia is elegantly furnished and is a wonderful place to while away the hours with a good book or bottle of fine wine and some good company. The sea breeze cools and refreshes this area of Hydra where most of the traditional Manor houses are situated and one or two of the best hotels on the island are also located.

The Hidden Manor is approached by a short flight of steps, passing through antique iron gates that feature winged sphinxes. The garden is to the right of the house and is abundantly stocked with flowering and scented shrubs, trees and climbing plants. It is paved and to the far end there is a large marble table with ample seating and barbeque. It is a perfect area for alfresco dining accompanied by the trickle of a fountain, gently murmuring in the background. There is also a garden shower, which is perfectly positioned to refresh oneself after returning from the beach. Entering the house proper, through the double front door, one is greeted by an entrance hall which still has the original dark red floor tiles in place. White walls, lofty ceilings and dove grey painted woodwork add to the peaceful effect and serene introduction to this wonderful home.

The dining room & kitchen feature many of the original 19th Century facilities including the original bread oven, shallow marble sinks and ceramic tiling. Eight guests can be comfortably seated around a beautiful antique wooden dining table illuminated by an antique light. The crockery, stored in an antique dresser finishes the effect and reminds one of the elegance of the past. There are, of course, the modern day conveniences of a full sized electric oven and hob as well as a large fridge/freezer.

The master bedroom is also off the entrance hall and is subtly decorated in white with touches of blue in the soft furnishings. A round table and two comfortable armchairs below the front facing window, offer an excellent place for an intimate breakfast for two. The large wrought iron, four-posted bed is hung with voile that creates a romantic atmosphere.

The main bathroom is large, with marble surfaces and a grey unpolished marble floor. There is a double sized shower unit, two hand-basins and a huge mirror that's quaintly mottled with age. There is a second shower room off the upstairs double bedroom and the house has two independent toilets.

A flight of old marble stairs lead from the entrance hall to the loggia which is the real heart of the house, and home to a family of swallows who nest there year after year. The winter sitting room, which is situated off the loggia, is cosy and ideal for cooler mornings and evenings when you can relax in front of the traditional fireplace. There are plenty of books, board games and cards that are available to guests.

The second bedroom is minimal in design, decorated entirely in white, with a large, comfortable double bed and private terrace tumbling with Bougainvillea and benefiting from views of the mountainous inland of the island. There is a shower room which can be accessed only by the terrace making it private to the bedroom.

Double doors lead to the third bedroom with its high ancient wooden ceiling and two beautiful, traditional cast iron single beds plus some spare mattresses in case of temporary need and to make sleeping arrangements more flexible.

Acting as a nostalgic reflection of a by gone era, The Hidden Manor is a true discovery. The location and atmosphere that is presented to the lucky guests who choose to spend time in this wonderful house will be memorable.