Greece is taking significant measures to regulate glamping, the trendy “glamorous camping” experience, with the Ministry of Tourism unveiling a comprehensive legal framework. Although glamping has been present in Greece since 2012, these new regulations aim to standardize the sector, promoting sustainable development and high-quality services that meet international luxury standards.
Standards for Glamping Sites in Greece
Under this new framework, glamping sites will be classified similarly to upscale hotels but with criteria specifically designed for nature-oriented hospitality. Only 4-star and 5-star ratings will be permitted for glamping units.
To qualify for these ratings, establishments must adhere to strict technical specifications and accumulate a minimum number of points (6,000 for 4 stars and 7,000 for 5 stars) through a combination of mandatory and optional criteria.
Capacity and Spatial Regulations
To maintain the genuine connection with nature that defines glamping, Article 1 outlines specific spatial limits:
- Structure Capacity: Each unit may accommodate up to four adult beds, with an additional two beds available for children.
- Privacy Zones: A minimum distance of ten meters must be maintained between units to ensure guest privacy.
- Environmental Integration: At least fifty percent of the site must be covered with vegetation to provide natural shade and environmental protection. Internal transportation within the sites must also use eco-friendly methods.
Mandatory Accessibility
The new regulations strongly emphasize inclusivity. Article 2 mandates that glamping units adhere to the national “Design for All” guidelines, which include:
- Unobstructed Access: All indoor and outdoor areas must be fully accessible and safely navigable for individuals with disabilities or reduced mobility.
- Dedicated Capacity: A minimum of five percent of total unit capacity must be designed specifically for guests with disabilities.
- Technical Audits: Any new glamping structure must submit a formal accessibility study as part of the installation process.
Source: greekreporter