29.10.2026
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Regional Guides
During International Mountain Day, on December 11, 2025, Greece announced a significant expansion of its “Untrodden Mountains” (Apatita Vouna) program. The initiative, led by the Ministry of Environment and Energy, strengthens environmental protection across some of the country’s most pristine mountain landscapes, while promoting a more sustainable development and tourism model. This latest decision reflects Greece’s growing focus on balancing environmental conservation with responsible growth.
What Is the “Untrodden Mountains” Program?
The “Untrodden Mountains” program establishes Roadless Areas (PAΔ – Perioches Anefs Dromon), zones of land that remain largely untouched by infrastructure and modern development. To qualify, these areas must: - Cover more than 1 square kilometre - Be located at least 1 kilometre away from the nearest road. Within these zones, strict restrictions apply. New infrastructure is prohibited, including roads, wind turbines, and large-scale construction projects. The goal is to prevent land fragmentation, preserve biodiversity, and protect ecosystems that are increasingly rare across Europe. To date, 11 ministerial decisions have been issued under this framework, some of which are now integrated into Special Environmental Studies.
New Protected Areas Added in 2025
The latest ministerial decision expands the program both geographically and strategically. With this decision, two new mountain areas have officially entered the program: Stroggoula Peak, in the Athamanika Mountains (Epirus), and Mount Parnonas, one of the Peloponnese’s most important mountain ranges. At the same time, existing protection measures were extended for three major peaks: Smolikas, Tymfi, within the Northern Pindos National Park, and Chatzis, in Thessaly. Together, these decisions expand Greece’s national network of strictly protected, roadless mountain areas.
Biodiversity and Climate Resilience
According to the Ministry of Environment and Energy, the main threat facing mountain ecosystems today is land-use change, which leads to biodiversity loss and forest degradation.
By prohibiting new roads and large infrastructure, the Untrodden Mountains program prevents ecosystem fragmentation, protects native flora and wildlife, preserves natural water sources, and enhances climate resilience in mountainous regions. The initiative aligns with European and global environmental priorities, especially at a time when climate change and deforestation place increasing pressure on natural landscapes.
Supporting Sustainable and Alternative Tourism
While development is restricted, access is not eliminated. These protected areas are ideal for low-impact activities, such as hiking and mountaineering, nature photography, wildlife observation, eco-tourism, and outdoor recreation. This approach supports a form of tourism that avoids overcrowding and benefits local mountain communities, whose economies increasingly rely on nature-based experiences rather than mass tourism. For many regions, this shift enhances long-term appeal without sacrificing environmental integrity. Sustainability is becoming central to spatial planning in Greece. While existing properties are generally unaffected, anyone considering land purchases or development in mountainous areas should work closely with licensed engineers and legal advisors to understand zoning and environmental constraints.
A Long-Term Vision for Greece’s Mountains
As stated by Environment and Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou, the goal is to keep Greece’s mountains “alive, protected, and sustainable”, ensuring that development respects nature rather than replaces it. By expanding the Untrodden Mountains program, Greece reinforces its position as a country investing not only in tourism and real estate, but also in long-term environmental value; a factor increasingly important to homeowners, investors, and communities alike.
