Greece expanded in April the list of so-called “untrodden beaches” with a joint ministerial decision. 251 beaches in total in Natura 200 protected areas, where sunbeds, sun-umbrellas, canteens, vehicles and events are prohibited.

The above amendment seeks the effective protection of beaches that have particular aesthetic, geo-morphological or ecological value.

The new beaches on the list are on:

Lefkada, Limnos, the Acheloos Delta, the Messolonghi Lagoon, the Small Cyclades (Iraklia, Schinoussa, Koufonisia, Keros), as well as in areas of Crete such as Kissamos, Kantanos – Selinos, Elafonisos, Gramvousa and Falasarna.

In total, important coastal and island areas are included, as well as on the island of Folegandros and other nearby Aegean islands.

The new regulation amends the previous Joint Ministerial Decree, with the aim of further strengthening the environmental protection of beaches, as additional areas are included in the regime.

With the new Joint Ministerial Decree, the number of coastlines and beaches within areas included in the National List of Areas of the European Ecological Network Natura 2000 is increasing and in which the granting of simple use, as well as any other action that may endanger their morphology and their integrity in terms of their ecological functions, is now prohibited.

The institution of “Untrodden Beaches” – known in Greek as “Apatites Paralies”  was established for the first time in 2024 with initially with  198 beach that soon increased to 238.

The relevant bill outlined the exploitation of public property on the shore, and established strict restrictions that forbid any kind of businesses activity in order to protect the natural environment. 

Full list 2026 of “UntroddenBeaches HERE in Greek only.