Greece’s authorities moved on Tuesday to immediately suspend all actions leading to the licensing of canteens and sunbed rentals on the protected beaches of Koufonisia.
This decisive move followed an intervention by the Minister of National Economy and Finance, Kyriakos Pierrakakis, who responded to an urgent request from the local municipality to protect the beaches of Pori and Italida in Ano Koufonisi, famed for their exceptional natural beauty and ecological sensitivity.
Protection of beaches in Koufonisia is a victory for residents
The suspension marks a victory for residents and municipal representatives, who had been in turmoil over the potential degradation of these pristine shores.
By halting the process, Pierrakakis upheld the spirit—if not yet the letter—of the law regarding protected concessions. His decision aligns with the “common sense” argument that these areas, and the Small Cyclades in general, should be officially designated as “Untrodden Beaches” (Apatites Paralies), where organized commercial activity is strictly prohibited.
Greek authorities issued a formal directive, fully granting the eleventh-hour request submitted by the Municipality of Naxos and Small Cyclades to block the commercial occupation of these sands.
The decision is expected to be officially announced today during an extraordinary meeting of the Municipal Council.
While residents of Koufonisia expressed profound relief, they view this victory as merely the first step.
Their ultimate goal remains the permanent protection of these beaches through a formal “Untrodden” status, setting a positive precedent for halting over-exploitation across Greece—especially for sites integrated into the Natura 2000 network.