Attica Region Authority Kicks Off ‘Athenian Riviera-Urban Walk’ Project

Athenian Riviera. Photo source: HRADF

The contract signing for a new ambitious project that will connect the Athens suburb of Moschato with Vouliagmeni along the Athenian Riviera, integrating pedestrian paths with bicycle lanes, took place on Monday.

Named “Athenian Riviera – Urban Walk”, the project will span an 18-kilometer seaside stretch, funded with over 19 million euros secured from the EU National Recovery and Resilience Plan.

The contract was signed between Region of Attica Governor Nikos Hardalias and the project’s contractor in the presence of Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and many government and local authorities’ officials during a ceremony at the Municipal Open Air Cinema in Alimos.

During his speech, Hardalias noted that the signing of the contract is the result of the Region of Attica’s close cooperation with the authorities of the six municipalities (Kallithea, Paleo Faliro, Alimos, Elliniko-Argyroupoli, Glyfada, and Vari-Voula-Vouliagmeni), Greece’s Asset Development Fund (HRADF), and the Ministry of Environment and Energy.

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, and Attica Governor Nikos Hardalias. Photo source: Attica Region

Hardalias spoke of an emblematic project, “an intervention in green and sustainable development,” facilitating Athens’ connection to the sea.

Thanking Prime Minister Mitsotakis for prioritizing the project, the regional governor added that it will be completed and open to the public by fall 2025. This initiative aims to highlight the natural beauty of the area, enhance the lives of residents and visitors alike, and boost the local economy.

He also mentioned that another seven projects are currently underway along the Athenian Riviera, which will “transform its character” and improve the quality of life for all residents in Attica.

PM Mitsotakis emphasized that the development of the Athenian Riviera, alongside the large-scale projects underway, unlocks significant growth potential for the national economy.

Furthermore, he stressed the importance of ensuring that development does not adversely affect local communities. The Greek PM highlighted that the project prioritizes sustainable mobility and encourages alternative urban transport modes such as cycling and walking.

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. Photo source: Prime Ministry’s Press Office

The new 18-kilometer pedestrian walkway and bicycle path, known as “Athenian Riviera – Urban Walk”, will seamlessly connect the Athenian Riviera from the “Esplanade” area to the Municipality of Vari-Voula-Vouliagmeni, providing unrestricted access for the first time.

According to the Region of Attica, the new walkway will enhance pedestrian and cyclist mobility and significantly improve accessibility for people with disabilities. Additionally, it aims to attract more visitors to the area by promoting alternative forms of tourism.

When strolling or cycling along the forthcoming walkway, visitors will traverse two rivers, Ilisos and Kifisos, pass by eight marinas, various yachting clubs, athletic facilities, organized beaches, as well as the major development projects of Hellinikon and the Faliron Delta Park, currently under construction.

The “Athenian Riviera – Urban Walk” will traverse six municipalities as follows:

– 365 meters through the Municipality of Kallithea
– 3,752 meters through the Municipality of Paleo Faliro
– 1,563 meters through the Municipality of Alimos
– 2,817 meters through the Municipality of Hellinikon
– 821 meters through the Municipality of Glyfada
– 2,646 meters through the Municipality of Vari-Voula-Vouliagmeni

The Region of Attica will oversee the implementation of 11.9 kilometers of the route, while the remaining sections are part of individual urban renewal projects or initiatives by private and municipal entities.