Where people prefer horse riding to driving

Greeks on the island of Hydra use horses to get around instead of cars because they want to enjoy a quiet life without the sound of car horns.

Hydra looks like its Aegean neighbors at first glance, with whitewashed streets, jasmine-scented air, and breathtaking views of sandy beaches.

But what makes Hydra unique is how it gets around, with the 2,500-odd locals using mules, donkeys, and ponies. On the 50-square-kilometer island (about the size of Vinh Yen city in Vietnam), cars are virtually non-existent. In fact, the island’s authorities have banned all motorized vehicles (except fire trucks, ambulances, and garbage trucks). People want to enjoy a quiet life, without honking. So they choose to stay away from cars.

Horses are used by people to travel around the island. Photo: Celebrity cruises — Horses are the means of transportation on the island. Photo: *Celebrity cruises*

At the port of Hydra, in the center of the island, visitors will see small horses with colorful cushions on their backs weaving through the cobblestone streets. Wandering through the streets, from the village of Kaminia on the south coast to Mandraki on the west coast, visitors will often see people riding horses or donkeys to work and play.

Harriet Jarman, owner of the horse-riding company Hydra, said: "Hydra is an island that really takes you back in time. Everything is done by horse or donkey. There are no cars so life is more peaceful."

Jarman’s relationship with the island began 24 years ago, when her mother took her there for a vacation. The trip led to a major decision in Jarman’s life: moving to Hydra permanently. More than 10 years ago, when Greece was facing an economic crisis, Jarman struggled with whether to sell Chloe, her beloved horse, or keep her.

Hydra Island from above. Photo: Expedia — Hydra Island from above. Photo: *Expedia*

Determined to keep her beloved companion, Jarman started a horse rental business for tourists. The business provided Jarman with money and allowed her to indulge her passion for showing people the island’s beauty. Jarman now owns 12 horses, which she uses to take tourists on tours along the island’s trails. They are led by an experienced guide.

Using horses instead of motor vehicles for transportation is a way for Hydra officials and residents to pay homage to the island's rich heritage and commit to a sustainable lifestyle.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, Hydra became a bustling maritime center of Greece. By the 20th century, motorized transportation began to appear on the island. But the narrow, steep roads and rocky terrain made it difficult for cars to move around. So people still preferred to use horses. Over time, this dependence became ingrained in the culture and lifestyle of the people. Today, the four-legged animals have become an indispensable part of the island's cultural identity.

"They are our cars, our hands and feet. They carry everything from building materials to furniture and luggage," Jarman said.

Boats are busy at the island's harbor. Photo: Expedia — Boats are busy at Hydra harbour. Photo: *Expedia*

The absence of cars contributed to the island's undeniable tranquility, attracting artists from all over. One of them was the famous Italian actress Sofia Loren, who fell in love with Hydra while filming the 1957 film "Boy on a Dolphin."

“Hydra, with its amazing colors, beautiful light, and unique atmosphere, has inspired many people,” says jewelry designer Elena Votsi. Votsi was born in Athens but spent her holidays and many summers on the island to visit her father. The lack of cars made Hydra an ideal place to work, inspiring many of her designs and career successes.

According to the Greek National Tourism Organization, in addition to being a popular sailing destination, Hydra also attracts visitors with its unique architecture with luxurious mansions built by Italian craftsmen along the island. There are nearly 300 churches and 6 monasteries.

"You will enjoy strolling the streets of the town, the port, the picturesque countryside, sipping a glass of wine with a wonderful view of the Aegean Sea, swimming in the deep blue water and enjoying local delicacies. Getting around the island is a real pleasure because there are no cars here," the website of the Greek National Tourism Organization says.

“Hydra is paradise, it's a magical place,” Votsi said.