Elafonisos Records Small Losses in Tourism Arrivals in 2020

Elafonisos (Simos Beach)

Despite the impact of the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic on travel, tourism arrivals to the island of Elafonisos dropped only by 13.7 percent during July – October 2020, compared to the same period last year, according to the Neapolis Port Authority. Elafonisos is located south of the Peloponnese.

Citing data, the port authority said that during September – October arrivals to the island fell by 8.85 percent, compared to the same period in 2019, indicating that the island managed to extend the tourism season, despite the difficulties caused by the pandemic.

Moreover, the average length of stay of tourists on the island increased, as a result of the Elafonisos Municipality’s promotion strategy, the implementation of strict health protocols and the efforts of local tourism professionals.

According to the Municipality, road tourism was a key factor for attracting visitors as Elafonisos is accessible by private car or bus through the port of Punta in Neapolis. There is a frequent ferry connection and the trip lasts only a few minutes.

“We are happy that the results have justified our efforts” Elafonissos Mayor Efi Liarou said.

“This data is indisputable evidence that everything worked as planned with consistency and continuity,” she added.

Elafonisos is known for its unique nature, therefore its tourism campaign this year ran under the motto “Chosen by Nature”.

The municipality is preparing for the new tourism season in 2021 and has already conducted a number of online meetings with journalists and tourism professionals, focusing on its source tourism markets but also new ones.