Despite being one of the oldest civilisations in the world, Greece is anything but old-fashioned. The country is a haven for beautiful sparkling waters, awe-inspiring natural and historical relics, and savoury delights, all of which come together as fascinating experiences of ecotourism in Greece.
Eco Sailing and Diving
One of the most stunning natural attractions in Greece is its coastline. Greece is famed for its gorgeous blue waters and unbelievably picturesque islands, so ecotourists will absolutely adore eco sailing and diving trips with Mystic Blue Eco Sailing and Diving.
The company is comprised of a team of sailors, divers, biologists, and environmentalists, all of whom are dedicated to studying and preserving the marine world. They also operate a series of unique ecotourism activities to expose the public to the biodiversity of the marine ecosystem, but also to raise public awarness of associated environmental issues. They operate some incredible experiences that include encounters with sea turtles, dolphins, and whales, as well as multiple day adventures throughout the magically blue Aegean and Ionian Seas.
Eco-Farming Estate
Levendi’s Estate, a 7-acre eco-chic farm, is an ideal place to get away, relax, and experience the beauty of the island of Ithaca. Levendi’s is an actual organic olive oil producing estate that accommodates visitors by showing them the true beauty of Ithaca and its surroundings. Levendi’s philosophy is that of peace, tranquillity, and nature, so it makes for the ideal location to escape the craziness of Athens and experience ecotourism in Greece.
Levendi’s Estate has four houses surrounded by garden terraces, each with easy access to the forest, beach, and organic vegetable and herb gardens. Cooking is done outdoors, and emphasis is placed on an organic, natural lifestyle and experience. The coffee shop on site offers fresh bread and produce harvested right from Levendi’s gardens, and the olive oil is, obviously, incredibly savoury. Levendi’s is a wonderful accommodation in which to engage in ecotourism in Greece.
Organic Winery
Visiting local wineries is one of the best ways to explore a country, especially if the winery is organic, operates an organic farm, and practices agro-tourism, as Ikarian Wine does. They also have wine courses, cooking courses, and accommodation, and are located on the Greek Island of Ikaria, the ancient birthplace of the wine-god Dionysus. If your interest hasn’t peaked by now, well, here’s a little more information that may sway you.
Ikarian Wine is family owned, and they’re very passionate about what they do. Not only are they certified organic producers, they’re also extremely dedicated to and knowledgeable of Mediterranean food and wine. Daily tours and presentations at the vineyard are designed to educate and acquaint visitors with the cultivation and production practices, as well as tastings. Ikarian Wine offers two six-day courses, one for food and the other for wine, and has renovated traditional agro-tourism stone houses on site for visitors to stay in. Visiting Ikarian Wine, no matter which option you chose, is a delicious way to savour ecotourism in Greece.
Ancient Natural Wonders
Greece is known for its ancient man-made wonders, but the country is also home to some amazing natural wonders. The Samaria Gorge is one of Europe’s longest, and is perhaps the most famous natural attraction in Crete. The 18km gorge is open to hike from Xyloskalo on the Omalos Plateau all the way down to the seaside town of Agia Roumeli, descending 1227 metres as it goes. The average walking time through the gorge is about 6 hours, given time for photography and general admiration, but for those short on time, there is a ‘lazy route’ available too.
Ecotourists to the Samaria Gorge will delight in the exceptional ecosystem and the incredible array of flora and fauna. As a rule, none of the approximately 450 species of plants may be removed from the gorge, so as to protect this special ecosystem that instils so much pride in locals. It is also common to spot the agrimia, Crete’s wild goats, who roam throughout the gorge and are very popular with tourists.
Image Source: Andifeelfine