16°C
As well as the main island Koufonisi, the region includes smaller islets – Stronguli, Makrouli and Marmara to the north, with only Trachilos to the south.
The sea comprises 60% of the designated territory. Koufionisi itself is a small island with a hot and dry climate. It has both sandy and pebbly shorelines. The marine component comprises a good representative example of what exists, and is well maintained: caves, reefs and seagrass meadows. No permanent human presence on the island is permitted: visitors come in the summer holiday months, but tourist activities are low-key.
The importance of the island comes from its geographical position and the excellent condition of its unusual eco-habitat. Basically, it has a deep-rooted North African element, which otherwise is not much evident in Crete (though see Vai). There are endemics, at the north limit of their distribution .. like Zygophyllum album, Helianthemum stipulatum (a rock rose) and Astragalus peregrinus spp peregrinus (a milk vetch): these on Koufonisi are the only known specimens in all of Crete or Greece.
The marine aspects are also very important.
Finally the island adds historical and archaeological value to the biological: an ancient theatre is known. The archaeological potential here is great, but as yet far from explored fully.
Hiking
The Rural Greece is an online portal that connects travellers with unique destinations and local businesses in the countryside, offering authentic experiences through activities that highlight nature, traditions and culture.
For the Rural Greece accessibility is fundamental to enhancing an inclusive tourism experience. Following the principles of inclusion and equality, the epaithros Rural Tourism Network and its member businesses are constantly working to enhance the tourism services provided, ensuring that all visitors have the opportunity to experience the authentic beauty of the Greek countryside.
Sustainability in tourism refers to a way of developing tourism that respects and protects the environment while strengthening the local economy and preserving cultural traditions. The aim of sustainable tourism is to provide unique and authentic experiences for visitors without harming the natural and social environment, while ensuring that local communities benefit from tourism activity.
This type of tourism is based on three pillars:
With sustainable tourism, visitors can have authentic experiences, knowing that the impact of tourism on the region is positive and lasting for future generations.
For Rural Greece, localism is one of the most important factors for the development of sustainable tourism, as it promotes a strong link between the tourism product and the local society, economy and culture. Through localism, visitors get the opportunity to explore authentic elements of the destination, such as local products, traditions and culture. This not only boosts the local economy, but also helps to sustain and strengthen local businesses, creating new jobs and supporting the development of local communities.
Furthermore, localism contributes to the sustainability of the tourism sector, as it reduces the use of resources from other regions and encourages the use of local goods and services, reducing the ecological footprint of tourism activities. Thus, integrating localism into tourism practices enhances sustainability awareness, both among visitors and local businesses, creating a more responsible and sustainable tourism destination.
