Pieria – Greece: In an endeavour to showcase Pieria’s unique kaleidoscope of authentic experiences, Angela Gerekou, President of the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO), participated in several key activities during her visit to the region on June 29-30. Her visit underscored Pieria’s rich cultural tapestry and its potential as a premier tourist destination.
During her visit, Mrs. Gerekou addressed attendees at the interactive presentation of the 53rd Olympus Festival’s artistic program at the ancient Dion site. The festival, a long-standing cultural event, epitomizes the region’s artistic heritage, drawing attention to its continuous cultural evolution from antiquity to the present day. She also inaugurated the Olympus Marathon, an international mountain running event, further highlighting Pieria’s diverse attractions.
Mrs. Gerekou’s itinerary included a tour and wine tasting at the organic vineyards of the Kourtis estate and a monastic gastronomy meal at the Holy Monastery of Saint Athanasius in Kolindros. Additionally, she experienced a breathtaking hot air balloon flight from Ancient Dion to Svoronos, promoting sustainable tourism practices in the region.
Reflecting on her visit, Ms. Gerekou emphasized the strategic importance of promoting Olympus and the surrounding area. “Showcasing Olympus and the broader peri-Olympus area is a strategic goal for GNTO, the Ministry of Tourism, and the entire country,” she stated. “Pieria must become the exemplary tourist destination it truly deserves to be, rich in cultural heritage.”
Highlighting the cultural significance of the Olympus Festival, Mrs. Gerekou noted that Pieria, with its deep-rooted history in arts and culture, offers a unique blend of artistic expressions. The festival, for over half a century, has been a cultural bridge connecting people and nations through theater, music, and visual arts. The commitment of festival organizers, including Artistic Director Mr. Papachristos and the Pieria Tourism Development Organization (POTAP) under President Mr. George Karalis, has been instrumental in elevating the festival’s global profile.
Pieria has been making significant strides in positioning itself on the global tourism map, thanks to a strategic development plan supported by the Region of Central Macedonia and Tourism Vice Governor Mrs. Sofia Mavridou. Ms. Mavridou highlighted Pieria’s capacity to offer year-round tourism, from winter sports in the mountains to summer activities along the Olympus Riviera. The region’s diverse tourism offerings cater to a wide range of international tourists, providing opportunities for nature, adventure, and cultural tourism.
A recent initiative, the Olympus Paths project, aims to enhance the region’s trail network, including significant investments in trail marking and infrastructure. This project, with a budget of approximately 1.2 million euros, will enhance the accessibility and connectivity of the Pieria and Olympus mountains, creating a unified tourist attraction with Western Macedonia.
Pieria is also focusing on developing its wine tourism sector, with 14 major wineries gaining international recognition. This sector represents a significant growth opportunity, combining tourism with local culinary and cultural experiences.
Ms. Mavridou emphasized the region’s holistic tourism strategy, aiming for a year-round tourist product. The extended summer season now spans from late April to October, complemented by winter tourism and exceptional local gastronomy. Events like the Olympus Marathon attract over 1,500 participants, showcasing the region’s capacity for hosting major sports events.
Religious and pilgrimage tourism also play a vital role in Pieria’s tourism portfolio. The region’s numerous monasteries and religious sites attract both domestic and international visitors. Pieria’s proximity to Thessaloniki and its excellent road network make it an ideal destination for day trips, combining spiritual experiences with cultural and culinary delights.
Pieria is poised to become a leading tourism destination, leveraging its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and strategic initiatives to offer diverse and sustainable tourism experiences. With the continued efforts of regional authorities and tourism organizations, Pieria is set to shine on the global tourism stage, fulfilling its potential as a premier cultural and adventure destination.
The article Pieria – Greece: A Beacon of Authentic Experiences and Cultural Heritage first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.
