UK tourists travelling in Greece are facing significant legal repercussions due to a recently enacted law that restricts the parking of motorhomes and caravans in public areas. This legislation, which imposes fines ranging from €300 (£255) to a maximum of three months in prison, has left many visitors feeling blindsided.
Under the new regulations, which came into effect without prior public consultation, the parking of motorhomes and caravans is strictly prohibited in public spaces such as beaches, archaeological sites, and municipal parking lots. Georgia Karlou, a board member of the Hellenic Motorhome Club—a group representing over 500 enthusiasts—expressed concern over the law’s sudden implementation. “We were blindsided,” she stated, describing the restrictions as “a disproportionate restriction on personal freedom.”
The law was supported by the Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni, who clarified the intent behind the provisions. In her statements, she emphasized that the regulations were designed to prohibit parking only in specific forbidden areas while allowing for parking and the use of tents in licensed campsites. She noted, “The installation of tents and the parking of caravans is expressly permitted in the special spaces provided for in campsites that have such spaces and are licensed by the Ministry of Tourism.”
However, not all politicians agree with this approach. MP Christos Katsotis from the Communist Party of Greece (KKE) criticized the law, suggesting it promotes “glamour camping” and deluxe facilities while effectively excluding less affluent campers from accessible areas. “The poor are excluded from everywhere,” he remarked, highlighting a growing divide in the accessibility of recreational spaces.
In response to the new law, the Club of Greek Campers has mobilised to challenge the legislation. They have called for various forms of protest, including demonstrations targeted at media outlets and toll booths, to amplify their dissatisfaction and demand changes to the law. The club has made it clear that they believe their grievances will only be addressed if a significant outcry is made against the legal restrictions.
As the summer season progresses, the implications of this law have stirred significant unease amongst UK tourists and the local camping community, raising concerns about the future of motorhome and caravan tourism in Greece.
Source: Noah Wire Services