A new framework of rules for the country’s tourism development is unveiled by the relevant ministries.

The new framework attempts to put a brake on anarchic building and shape a model of tourism with a greater emphasis on sustainability, protection of the environment and the specific characteristics of each region.

According to the presentation of the new Spatial Framework for Tourism, the main objective is to better organise the area and to define clear conditions for where, how and under what conditions tourism activity can be developed in the future.

The government is placing particular weight on protecting islands and areas already under intense tourism pressure, while seeking to direct new investment towards less saturated areas of the country.

Five categories of regions

For the first time, the territory is divided into five distinct categories of regions, based on:

  • existing tourism activity,
  • geographical characteristics,
  • and the specific protection regimes applicable in each region.

The new model provides for stricter rules for areas where the pressure from tourism is already considered high, while in areas with room for growth, investments will only be allowed to proceed under conditions of sustainability and specific incentives.

“Ceiling” on tourist beds on islands

The new regulation on the maximum number of tourist beds on islands is of particular importance, depending on their size, in an effort to avoid phenomena of over-tourism and overloading of infrastructure.

The measure comes at a time when several popular destinations face severe pressures on water, energy, transport and waste management during the summer months.

Strict protection for the coast

The new spatial framework also provides increased protection for the coastal zone.

Specifically, the first 25 metres from the shoreline is given full protection status, where only utility projects will be allowed, significantly limiting the possibility of tourist exploitation in particularly sensitive areas.

Protection for traditional settlements and archaeological sites

Special provisions are also included for:

  • the National System of Protected Areas,
  • traditional and abandoned settlements,
  • archaeological sites,
  • monuments and historical sites.

With the new framework, the government is attempting to link tourist development with the protection of natural and cultural heritage, emphasizing a more qualitative and balanced tourism model for the years to come.