Minister Highlights Thermal Tourism's Role in Extending Greece's Tourism Season

Thermal tourism can play a vital role in addressing Greece's seasonal tourism challenges and fostering sustainable destination development, according to Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni.

During a meeting with the new board of the Hellenic Association of Municipalities with Thermal Springs, Kefalogianni discussed the strategic importance of this niche market.

Kefalogianni revealed that the Tourism Ministry has certified 80 natural thermal springs and licenced more than 30 thermal tourism facilities across Greece. To further enhance this sector, the Committee for the Protection of Thermal Natural Resources has been reestablished to assist in better promotion and development.

The minister also announced plans to invite applications for upgrading existing or establishing new thermal tourism facilities, with funding from the Recovery and Resilience Fund. This initiative will be open to local government authorities, legal entities, businesses, the Hellenic Public Properties Company, and the Hellenic Republic Asset Development Fund.

Kefalogianni emphasised the necessity for these facilities to offer comprehensive services to attract visitors year-round, both domestically and internationally.

Deputy Tourism Minister Elena Rapti, who oversees special forms of tourism, also attended the meeting. Rapti reiterated the ministry's strategic goal of supporting niche tourism markets to extend the tourism season.

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(Source: GTP)