Greece Expands Untrodden Mountains Program, Promoting Sustainable Tourism, Regional Growth and Long-Term Economic Benefits While Preserving Natural Heritage

Published on December 13, 2025

Greece has increased its sustainable tourism and ecological protection by expanding the “Untrodden Mountains” program. The new announcement for International Mountain Day-December 11-includes these new areas: Stroggoula peak, Athamanika Mountains, Epirus, Mount Parnonas, Peloponnese, and the expansion of the protections for Smolikas, Tymfi, and Chatzis peaks.

These moves will protect Greece’s most remote and beautiful natural landscapes while driving the growth of alternative tourism options such as hiking, mountaineering, and wildlife observation. The initiative is in tune with Greece’s wider tourism strategy of creating a balance between environmental protection and tourism growth, thus serving as a model for sustainable tourism growth that benefits both the environment and local economies.

Impact on Regional Tourism: Diversifying Travel and Enhancing Local Economies

The expansion of the Untrodden Mountains program signals the beginning of a new era for tourism in Greece, one that distributes the benefits of tourism more evenly across the country. As tourism growth spreads beyond urban centers like Athens and Santorini, regions like Epirus, Peloponnese, and the northern mountains will experience a rise in tourism-related revenue. These areas, previously overlooked by mainstream tourism, now have the opportunity to attract eco-conscious travelers seeking authentic experiences and natural beauty.

For local mountain communities, this growth can provide a much-needed economic boost. Small businesses, including boutique hotels, eco-tourism guides, local artisans, and restaurants, will benefit from the increased visitor spending. Local employment will also rise, with more jobs created in sustainable tourism, hospitality, and tourism infrastructure development. The spread of tourism into these areas will help to revitalize rural economies, balancing the pressure on traditional tourism hubs and ensuring more equitable economic development.

Future Impact: Sustainable Growth in Greece’s Tourism Sector

Looking to the future, the Untrodden Mountains program will continue to play a central role in shaping sustainable tourism growth in Greece. As more visitors seek eco-friendly destinations, the demand for low-impact travel experiences like hiking and mountaineering will continue to rise. Greece’s protected mountain areas will increasingly attract travelers who value nature conservation, cultural immersion, and responsible travel practices.

These protected zones will continue to serve as a model for sustainable tourism, encouraging other countries to implement similar environmental protection measures while fostering economic growth. The focus on eco-tourism and cultural tourism will ensure that Greece remains at the forefront of the global sustainable travel movement, offering both tourists and local communities long-term benefits.

Moreover, this initiative will pave the way for the development of more specialized tourism products, such as nature retreats, wellness tourism, and cultural heritage experiences, diversifying Greece’s tourism offerings. With a stronger focus on authenticity and responsible tourism, Greece can attract a broader range of international visitors, while simultaneously preserving its natural resources and cultural heritage.

Strengthening Greece’s Global Position as a Sustainable Tourism Leader

As sustainable travel continues to gain momentum globally, Greece’s tourism sector will benefit from the growing demand for eco-friendly destinations. The country’s commitment to preserving its untouched mountain regions while offering immersive, responsible travel experiences will ensure that Greece remains a top destination for eco-conscious travelers in the coming years. The Untrodden Mountains program is just one of many sustainable tourism initiatives that will position Greece as a global leader in sustainable travel, attracting tourists who value environmental responsibility and authentic cultural experiences.

A Sustainable Future for Greece’s Tourism Industry

The Untrodden Mountains program epitomizes the kind of farsighted approach that links Greece’s tourism development with the tenets of sustainability, cultural preservation, and protection of the natural environment. This initiative will continue to drive tourism diversification, creating new opportunities for local communities while positioning Greece as a leading destination for responsible travel and sustainable tourism in the future. The long-term impact of this program will not only contribute to local economic development but also support Greece’s tourism strategy to enhance the country’s global competitiveness and ensure that its mountainous regions remain protected for future generations.