Embrace Nature with Sustainable Tourism in Greece
If you are looking for a beautiful country that is filled with eye-catching landscapes, mind-bending ancient heritage sites and an absolutely lively local culture, then Greece is the perfect destination for you. Most of the percentage of economy is contributed by the tourism industry in Greece. Now, the country has decided to make this even better by embracing a new path. The goal is to welcome the travelers wholeheartedly while encouraging them to use effective ways to protect the natural environment and cultural landmarks. This way, the theme of sustainable tourism in Greece has been introduced so that every step the traveler takes during their stay makes a positive impact.
This has raised a new kind of interest among the global travellers to experience this lively. Hence, if you are interested too, you can reach out through GREECE VISAS to apply for your Greece Visa online application and get ready to go.
What is Sustainable Tourism in Greece?
There are certain travel practices that Greece has designed to help in environmental preservation, maintain the cultural integrity and help attain the economic well-being. For example, in the country of Greece, the preservation of the natural wonders which are based in islands and the mainland, as well as ensuring that local communities can also benefit from the tourism without getting overwhelmed by it.
Greece has taken a significant initiative with the goal of transforming the entire tourism industry. One of the famous initiatives is by providing green certifications to hotels, which ensures less usage of single-use plastics. Then, there have been measures taken to curb the menace of overtourism situations. Thus, the country is gradually making an impact with the theme of what it means to travel responsibly. In short: long-term sustainability over short-term profits.
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Why Choose Greece for Sustainable Travel?
Greece is one of the countries which has stunning biodiversity. Furthermore, there are ancient traditions that are followed extensively, along with a deep-rooted connection to the land and sea. With the introduction of sustainable tourism in Greece, you can enjoy any kind of activities like hiking through the lush mountains, or sailing through the clear water of the Aegean. The experiences will be astounding, yet the impact will be very light of the environment.
Another reason that makes Greece magnificent is that they have shown a great level of commitment to uplifting the local communities. This way, many villages and towns have started adopting the principles of eco-tourism with the promotion of farm-to-table meals, showcasing traditional crafts and making sustainable accommodations. As far as travelers are concerned, they can enjoy a low-impact experience by reaching the islands on the ferry. Furthermore, the islands could be explored on foot or by bike with the engagement of nature-focused activities, thereby leaving a very minimal footprint.
What Are the Best Eco-Friendly Destinations in Greece?
For those who are interested in planning a perfect green getaway in Greece, we have some valuable recommendations. Till now, you must have understood clearly that the country literally boasts about its destination, which follows sustainable tourism in Greece effectively. Based on that, you can visit these places:
- Hydra: This mind-enriching, car-free island. You will be amazed to see that donkeys are still used to transport goods. Most of the locals and tourists navigate the entire island on foot or by boat.
- Tilos: This is a small Dodecanese island that has become the epitome of renewable energy and environmental protection.
- Ikaria: A spectacular destination to visit, if you love the philosophy of slow living and longevity. It is a mindblowing, peaceful escape that blends perfectly with the sustainable tourism in Greece.
Apart from that, on the mainland, you can visit the Zagori villages in Epirus. It is a beautiful place that is known for stone-built houses and eco-friendly hiking trails. Next, you can visit Pelion, which is a mix of forest and sea. It offers an organic farm and traditional guesthouses for staying. And lastly, go to Thessaly, which surely will impress you with the availability of national parks and hidden gems of stunning mountain ranges.
Are There Eco-Friendly Hotels and Accommodations in Greece?
With the formation of sustainable tourism in Greece it has created endless possibilities for the hotels and accommodations to follow in an eco-friendly way. Many hotels have now started practicing all green practices coupled with solar power, rainwater harvesting, zero waste kitchens and complete plastic-free policies.
Whatever accommodations you choose, look for these certifications:
- Green Key
- Travelife
- EU Ecolabel
These certifications assure that the property is committed to maintaining sustainable practices. And as far as options to choose from, you can try from the range of luxury eco-resorts to comfortable agritourism lodges. Most of them can be found in Crete, Naxos, and mainland villages. Apart from that, there will be standout properties which offer workshops on the ways and benefits of organic farming and natural building. This will truly enhance your travel experience, along with supporting the environment.
What Kind of Activities Are Considered Eco-Friendly in Greece?
To experience sustainable tourism in Greece vividly, one needs to find authentic nature-based activities. You can consider these recommendations:
- Hiking: Plenty of gorges are available to fo a hike in places like Samaria and Vikos.
- Kayaking: The crystal clear waters on rivers, lakes and the sea are perfect for kayaking.
- Birdwatching: Check out the astounding wetland to look for unique birds like in Lake Kerkini.
- Sailing: You can reach companies that offer wind or hybrid power ships, ferries or boats.
Note: If you are interested in volunteering for the environment, then options are available too. You can join the turtle conservation projects in Zakynthos or help clean up the beaches with the support of local NGOs. If you are a foodie, go for the organic food tours by visiting the family-run vineyards or learning how to cook the traditional dishes with seasonal ingredients.
How Can Tourists Support Local Communities?
To make sustainable tourism in Greece more prevalent, travellers can support the people who live there. A few recommendations are as follows:
- Locally-owned guesthouses: Prefer staying in these places rather option for the corporate international hotels.
- Tavernas: Eat at these local tavernas, which are prepared from local produce and seasonal dishes.
- Handmade Goods: Consider buying the goods that are handmade locally, such as ceramics, olive oil and traditional textiles from creative artisans.
Furthermore, you can participate in cultural workshops. This could be weaving in Naxos or olive harvesting in the Peloponnese. It will enrich your experience with 100 percent assurance that the money is being spend on preserving local traditions.
What Greek Businesses Promote Sustainable Tourism?
There are many Greek companies that are promoting eco-conscious travel on a great scale. A few of our favourites are:
- EcoZante: This company offers many sustainable tours all around Zakynthos. Their main focus is on marine protection and other eco-adventures.
- Nomads Path: This is a boutique travel company that is known for curating off-beat path experiences for travellers. They emphasise mostly on mutual cultural respect and absolute sustainability.
- Green Kiosk: A local platform that promotes all kinds of eco-friendly products and services all across Greece.
These businesses truly are an asset for the sustainable tourism in Greece, which helps the travellers to enjoy the country responsibly. Side by side, they also empower the local communities and protect the natural ecosystems effectively.
What Should Travelers Keep in Mind for Responsible Tourism in Greece?
Keep these valuable points in mind:
- Minimize Waste: Try carrying reusable water bottles, avoid plastic bags and recycle anything that is possible in your hands.
- Respect the culture: Try dressing modestly while you plan to visit churches, learning a few Greek phrases can bring you close to locals, and follow local customs sincerely.
- Choose your actions carefully: Try following the represented trails while hiking, do not disturb the wildlife, and choose only those tour services that follow ethical guidelines based on sustainable tourism in Greece.
Note: You don’t have to do anything big to show your love for sustainability. Even small changes like taking the public transport or planning to stay longer in one place can make a huge difference.
Get Your Schengen Visa Appointment from UK Through Our Professional Expertise
If you find the Greece Visa Appointment in the UK a tedious task, then let the GREECE VISAS take care of it for you. Just click on the Apply online tab to fill in the details and submit. An experienced staff member will be assigned to handle your case. You will call immediately to discuss further. If you feel confident, then proceed with paying the Visa Fees. The staff will book a Greece Schengen Visa appointment for you. Carry the mandatory documents and be present at the designated Visa Centre in time to finish the rest of the formalities. At GREECE VISAS, our goal is to provide a solution as simple as possible to address your visa queries.
Conclusion: Do not get the idea that sustainable tourism in Greece is just a viral trend at the moment. It is more than that. A kind of a positive movement that is deeply rooted to respect the land, culture and communities. This support from the powerful bodies make the country very special. By making your mind to choose the eco-friendly destinations, supporting personally the local economies and travelling responsibly, all the visitors can really ensure that the country of Greece remains beautiful eternally for all the present and future generations.
FAQs
- Why is sustainable tourism important in Greece?
The implementation of sustainable tourism in Greece ensures correct travel practices that help in protecting the environment, supporting the local communities and preserving the cultural heritage for a long time, as well as providing a meaningful experience to the travellers.
- How can I identify a sustainable business in Greece?
Look for the certification of sustainability for that business. Check as well if the business has a community movement and has a connection with other businesses that use renewable energy, eco-friendly products, and ethical/fair employment practices.
- How is Greece managing overtourism in famous places like Santorini ?
Greece has already started limiting the number of cruise ship arrivals. Furthermore, they are even investing in infrastructure to reduce strain on all the popular destinations in the country.
- How long will it take for my Greece Schengen visa from UK to get approved ?
Normally it takes 14 to 15 workings days for the Visa Centre to approve your Greece Schengen Visa from UK after the document submission and finishing rest of the formalities at the Visa Centre. However in extreme cases, the waiting period can extend. For more details, contact GREECE VISAS now