As gangs of thugs, masquarading as union members, continue to beat the country’s traditional tourism into unconsciouness, one segment of the industry – agrotourism – is striding forward, apparently unscathed. 

According to Guest Inn, which is a Greek network of rural accommodations, there is an increase of almost 20 percent in bookings over the same period last year, as compared to the devastating decreases being recorded in standard tourism bookings.  

Manolis Fragakis, who operates the picturesque Velani Country Hotel high over the village of Avdou, is a recent member of Guest Inn.

“This is our first year with Guest Inn so I don’t have anything to compare with,” he said, “but I can tell you that agrotourism is a growing segment of the industry. People want to get away from the more crowded, touristy areas. But it is not enough just to have a hotel in a beautiful area…more has to be offered.”  

In addition to the scenic Velani Country Hotel, with a mountainside stone-oven taverna, Manolis maintains a stable of riding horses, and organizes walking tours and mountain hikes, as well as other nature-orientated activities.

Members of Guest Inn must meet the organization’s strict guidelines and are regularly inspected. Only when they are up to standard, are they awarded a rating, given in sunflowers instead of stars.