Hike· Hydra· Greece — Ionian, Saronic & Argolic

Prophet Elias Monastery Hike

37° 20.1′ N · 23° 27.8′ E

A steep, cobbled hour's climb from Hydra town through pines to the fortress-like Monastery of Prophet Elias, with the convent of Agia Efpraxia nearby at about 500 m and views over the harbour to the Peloponnese.

Ionian IslandsSaronic Gulf & Argolic

Practical

Coordinate is the OSM node for 'Μονή Προφήτη Ηλία'. Start at the church of St Constantine of Hydra in Kiafa and follow the steep path — about 60 minutes — past the old nunnery ('Palaion Kalograion'); benches on the way; the last stretch is cobbled stairs to the gate. Founded 1813 by Kollyvades monks from Mount Athos; the revolutionary general Kolokotronis was once imprisoned here. Male monastic community; Agia Efpraxia (founded 1819, a convent) is next door and sells nuns' embroidery. Monastery tel +30 22980 52540, feast day 20 July; Agia Efpraxia +30 22980 52484, feast 25 July. Go early: there is little shade high up and no water source mentioned on the route.

Best for

The classic Hydra hike with a harbour view

Nearby