Discover Soufli: Greece’s New Hidden Gem for Nature, Culture and Sustainable Tourism

Published on December 19, 2025

Soufli is a beautiful town in the northeastern part of Greece that has promising developments in terms of tourism growth. It has a strategic plan laid down by the Municipality of Soufli that enables it to develop into a quality tourist destination by the year 2029. The idea is based on the natural beauty and historical importance that make it a promising site for further tourism developments.

A Hidden Gem in Northern Greece: Soufli’s Attractions

Soufli, located in the Evros region, offers a blend of environmental wonders, archaeological sites, and religious landmarks. The town is surrounded by areas of exceptional natural beauty, including the internationally protected Dadia-Lefkimi-Soufli Forest National Park, which is home to some of Europe’s most diverse wildlife. The forest’s remarkable biodiversity makes it an attractive destination for eco-tourism, bird watching, and nature enthusiasts. In addition to the natural landscape, Soufli is also known for its cultural heritage, with the town itself being the renowned center of silk production.

The town’s unique position in the Balkan region—combining protected natural areas with a thriving silk industry—makes it an ideal location for tourism. Soufli’s combination of historical sites, including ancient monuments and traditional architecture, alongside its vibrant modern industry, gives visitors a chance to experience the best of both worlds.

The Strategic Importance of Infrastructure for Tourism Growth

A key focus of Soufli’s tourism development plan is the improvement of infrastructure. For the region to compete on the global tourism stage, it is essential to upgrade its facilities and services, ensuring that visitors enjoy a seamless and high-quality experience. This includes enhancing transportation links, building new accommodations, and expanding visitor services. The municipality recognizes that these improvements will create jobs, boost the local economy, and increase tourism’s overall contribution to the region’s prosperity.

Infrastructure is not only about improving physical amenities but also ensuring that the natural areas and historical sites are effectively managed and protected. The ongoing development of eco-friendly tourism infrastructure will ensure that the natural beauty of the region is preserved for future generations while providing visitors with an authentic and engaging experience.

Soufli’s International Recognition as a Top Tourism Destination

In 2025, Soufli received global recognition when it was selected as one of the Best Tourism Villages in the world by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). The village stood out among 170 entries from 75 countries, with its proposal highlighting its blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and rich cultural heritage. Soufli’s designation as one of the top tourism villages globally was a milestone achievement that has placed the town firmly on the map for international visitors.

The recognition is a testament to the town’s efforts in balancing sustainable tourism practices with the preservation of its unique cultural and natural assets. As more visitors discover Soufli’s charm, the town is positioning itself as an ideal destination for travelers seeking an authentic, immersive experience in Greece’s less-explored regions.

Unique Attractions That Set Soufli Apart

While Soufli is already renowned for its silk heritage, which includes silkworm farms and the world-famous Tsivre silk factory, there are several lesser-known but equally fascinating attractions that are now being highlighted for tourism purposes. One of the most unique sites in the region is the ancient fossil forest, which is over 40 million years old. This natural wonder, along with the presence of megalithic structures such as dolmens, totemic mushrooms, and prehistoric castles, provides visitors with a fascinating journey back in time.

The area is also rich in religious heritage, with landmarks such as the Kizil Deli Monastery, one of the most significant Bektashi monasteries in the world, dating back to 1401/2. Other important sites include ancient tekkes, post-Byzantine churches, and villages featuring centuries-old stone bridges, watermills, and fountains. These monuments offer visitors a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical layers that make Soufli and its surroundings so unique.

The Role of SME Networks in Tourism Development

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a crucial role in Soufli’s tourism industry. These businesses, from family-owned guesthouses to local artisans and tour operators, are the backbone of the region’s economy. The development of tourism infrastructure must also consider the needs of these smaller businesses, which often provide personalized services and authentic local experiences that large commercial operations cannot.

The growing interest in Soufli as a tourist destination presents an opportunity to empower local businesses and ensure that tourism benefits the entire community. The municipality’s tourism development plan emphasizes the importance of supporting these SMEs, helping them integrate into the broader tourism ecosystem while maintaining their unique identities and providing tourists with memorable, one-of-a-kind experiences.

Soufli’s Potential for Sustainable Tourism

Sustainability is at the heart of Soufli’s tourism development strategy. The town’s stunning natural resources, including the Dadia-Lefkimi-Soufli Forest National Park, are key to its appeal. Sustainable tourism practices, including eco-tourism and responsible visitor management, will be essential for maintaining the region’s environmental integrity while attracting visitors. By developing green tourism initiatives, Soufli can position itself as a leader in sustainable travel in Greece and the wider Balkan region.

The development of eco-friendly infrastructure and the promotion of local, sustainable products—such as Soufli silk—will also help preserve the area’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Visitors to Soufli can engage in activities that celebrate the region’s biodiversity, including bird watching, hiking, and cycling, while supporting local businesses that champion sustainability.

Soufli’s Bright Future as a Tourism Hub

Soufli, with a focus on improving infrastructure, encouraging local spending, and supporting eco-friendly tourist practices, is poised to have a very bright future ahead of it in international tourism. The initiatives of the town to attract more tourists, with a focus on retaining its identity, will ensure that Soufli continues to remain an important part of Greece’s tourist industry for many years to come.