This summer I realised a long time dream to visit Hyrda, a Greek Island that’s a two hour boat ride from Athens.
It’s a very special place, its incredible beauty has inspired artists, poets, musicians, photographers, film makers and all kinds of story tellers. It retains a bohemian essence, the vibe is relaxed and informal despite its growing popularity.
I’ve longed to visit Hydra since watching Marianne & Leonard: Words of Love, a beautiful devastating documentary film by Nick Broomfield, I highly recommend it.
As there are no motor vehicles allowed on the island, donkeys and mules are an essential part of local life, carrying goods from the port around the town through narrow streets and allies. The absence of motor vehicles creates a serene environment, an uninterrupted peace allowing you to feel a deep connection to the island.
My scent sketch of Hydra
Herbs, horse and jasmine
My brain is buzzing with images and memories and I’m excited to capture them in a perfume. For now I’ll share some thoughts, and photos from this peaceful place.

Crystalline Aegean sea
Cobalt blue and turquoise green
Lavender hills rolling high
interrupting cerulean sky.

Warm waters lapping on quayside docks
Sun soaked bodies bask on the rocks
Slippery steps call tempting us in
Salty waters cool sizzling skin

Horseshoes clatter on cobbled stone
Mardy mules wafting animal fumes
Sweet hay breath, soft fuzzy muzzle
Countless kittens requesting a cuddle

Bobbing boats deliver daily supplies
Darting dinghies jibe not to collide
Sails unfurling and ropes clanking on masts
Daytrippers depart when the Ferry-horn blasts

Sun scorched herbs smelling sweetly sublime
Wild mint, sage, davana and thyme
Fragrant flowers ramble, scramble and climb
Welcome winds whisper with fig leaf and pine

Stray ducks forage beneath tangerine trees
Night blooming flower buds dance in the breeze
Biding their time, waiting till dusk
Scenting life with sweet jasmine musk

Ydra island delighting our senses
Quietly, gently, with Nature’s blessings
Sail on the sea or walk dusty lane
No cars on the road instead donkeys reign

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