Lonely Planet Names Greece ‘Best Sustainable Food Destination’ for 2021

Leading travel guide publisher Lonely Planet has announced Greece as the world’s most sustainable food destination for 2021.

The guide recently published the 2021 edition of its “Best in Travel” awards, which is different this year as it recognizes places and people demonstrating a genuine commitment to sustainability, community and diversity.

Best in Travel 2021 features Greece as the leader in organic produce markets, prolific wild herbs and island seafood hauls.

According to Lonely Planet’s Kate Armstrong, Greeks have been green for centuries.

“The age-old habit of growing vegetables, harvesting olives and preparing silky oil, and cooking up a storm with tomatoes, fresh fish and wild greens is the norm for most folk whether they live on an island or the mainland,” she said.

The guide refers to the fragrant herbs of Kalymnos, the octopus of Leros, the organic cuisine of Crete, the local lamb and homemade desserts of Delphi, the yogurt, bread and cheese pies of Mani.

Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel includes a number of categories including best sustainable storyteller, wildlife program, emerging destination, train journey, island, accommodation and more.

It should be mentioned that the Greek island of Alonissos was recently included on National Geographic’s List of the World’s Top 8 Sustainable Destinations for 2021.

Alonissos ranked sixth for its unique sustainability features and its well-preserved Peristera shipwreck that recently opened as Greece’s first underwater museum.