Kyllini Thermal Springs Get Green Light for Operation

Kyllini thermal springs. Photo Source: Municipality of Andravida-Kyllini

Greek Tourism Minister Harry Theoharis has given the green light to the operation of the Kyllini thermal springs paving the way for inclusion in the ministry’s alternative tourism strategy.

The project has been on the backburner since 2014.

The ministry has stepped up its efforts to tap into the spa and wellness tourism segment, moving ahead with the recognition and licencing process of therapeutic springs across Greece.

Earlier this year, the minister approved the operation of the Kaiafas Thermal Springs, situated south of Ilia, also delayed since 2014.

Kaiafa Thermal Springs, Kaiafa Lake. Photo Source: Hellenic Association of Municipalities with Thermal Springs.

The ministry hopes to capitalize on some 124 thermal springs in Greece, which can boost local economies and offer tourism options to lesser-known destinations.

It is estimated that Greece’s thermal spring facilities can triple revenues to some 390 million euros per year if they are upgraded, potentially  handling some 3.1 million visitors.

It should be noted that the global wellness industry grew by 12.8 percent in 2015-2017 generating 4.2 trillion dollars, 56.2 billion dollars of which were in the spa market, according to the Global Wellness Economy Monitor, which values the segment at 77 billion dollars in 2022.