Thessaly Upgrading Walking Trails to Develop Hiking Tourism Offering

Meteora, Greece. Photo source: @Visit Greece

Aiming to promote hiking tourism in the Region of Thessaly, local and regional authorities have announced the upgrade of its 16 hiking routes in Meteora and on Mount Koziaka.

The upgrade project is based on a study that details the works needed for the creation of a large network of clean and safe hiking trails in Trikala, and its inclusion in the European network of trails.

“We will improve accessibility to 12 existing routes, install signage with essential information, and create four new routes to enhance hiking tourism in the region,” Thessaly Governor Kostas Agorastos said during a recent press conference.

Once the project is completed the 16 hiking routes will cover a total of 60km.

The governor also announced that the Thessaly region is in close collaboration with Environment Minister Kostas Skrekas to develop a program for the promotion of the area’s hiking routes.

According to regional authorities, the upgrade project is expected to contribute to the development of a new tourism offering that will give visitors the chance to combine wellness with nature while touring areas of rare natural beauty.

During the press conference it was mentioned that the hiking and mountaineering trails of the wider area of Meteora, Pyli and Mt Koziaka are suitable for all hikers and not exclusively those with good physical condition.

According to Trikala Chamber President Vasilis Giagakos, hiking tourism is a growing alternative form of tourism that now attracts more visitors due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

“People seek for activities that contribute to their health and wellbeing… Hiking tourism has no seasonality and can contribute to the increase of tourism flows to Trikala and the wider Thessaly region,” he said.