Nisyros, Lesvos Thermal Springs on Greece’s Natural Resource List
Thermal springs on the Greek islands of Lesvos and Nisyros have been recognized as natural resources by a joint ministerial decision this week.
More specifically, Environment Minister Kostas Skrekas and Deputy Tourism Minister Sofia Zacharaki approved the Lisvori Thermal Spring located in Western Lesvos and the Hippocrates Pantelidi Springs on Nisyros as valuable natural resources.
“Two more natural therapeutic resources have been recognized and added to the 80 documented resources throughout the country,” said Zacharaki, adding that the tourism ministry in cooperation with all relevant ministries, agencies and local communities, has prioritized the development of alternative forms of tourism with emphasis on spa and wellness tourism.
The ministry has set aside 28 million euros in RRF funding to be channeled into the sustainable development of the country’s thermal spring and spa infrastructure.
Last year, Greek lawmakers approved a tourism bill which among others introduces tools that will enable public-private partnerships and sets out the terms of operation for destination management and promotion organizations (DMOs).
Titled “Standard Tourist Destinations of Integrated Management, Destination Management and Promotion Organizations, Thermal Springs of Greece, and Other Regulations for Tourism Development”, the law is aimed at stimulating cooperation between investors, private companies, and local stakeholders.
I would really like to know what is going to happen with the Eftalou hot springs. How can I get some information about that?
Interesting this article picks out the Lisvori thermal springs on Lesvos. This was left to the elements at least 10 years ago. I believe nearby Polichnitos spa (which continued operations until being closed down a few years ago) may be renovated and reopened. The Thermi spa on Gulf of Gera and Eftalou (near Molyvos) spas have remained open. I wonder how long it will take to revive the Lisvori & Polichnitos spas for public use.