Greece Seeks to Open Cheese and Dairy Factories to Tourists

Cheese factories in Greece will soon be open to tourists as part of Tourism Ministry efforts to diversify the tourist product and link farming and primary production with the tourist experience.

In this direction, the tourism and agriculture ministries announced that a relevant bill outlining the terms of operation as well as the certification process was open for public comment through to February 22.

“More than 17 million euros in RRF funds will go into actions for the promotion of agritourism and culinary tourism in Greece, through the use of digital platforms, maps, applications, branding and marketing actions to promote new, authentic experiences to travelers visiting our country,” said Deputy Tourism Minister Sofia Zacharaki.

Deputy Tourism Minister Sofia Zacharaki. Photo source: Ministry of Tourism.

The proposed joint ministerial decision outlines terms and conditions that cheese factories must meet in order to be awarded the ministry’s special seal while setting out clear specifications for the services to be provided ensuring the quality of the visitor experience.

The Visitable Cheese Factory Label, which allows select cheese and dairy factories to welcome visitors and provide guided tours, hospitality, catering and tasting services, will be granted by the regional tourism ministry service depending on location.

The ministries hope through the public consultation procedure to get feedback from professionals and stakeholders.

“We are sending an open call to all organizations, associations, producers and companies producing cheese and dairy products to help formulate the framework that will cover the new visitable cheese factories,” said Zacharaki.

The deputy minister went on to add that the new seal is part of ongoing ministry efforts to promote Greek agritourism and ensure the quality upgrade of the country’s tourist product.

“With Greek production being one of the most important comparative advantages, we are strategically investing, aiming to encourage participation in tourism development in a sustainable and fair manner while showcasing destinations through significant activity in the primary sector, but also strengthening  the country’s producers by creating new opportunities for extroversion and increasing their income,” she said.

The joint ministerial decision up for public consultation can be found here (in Greek).

The Visitable Cheese Factory label follows similar labels granted to breweries that produce Greek beer and olive mills that produce Greek olive oil.