UNESCO Geoparks Conference Brings Geotourism Focus to Crete

Monday, 8 June 2026/Source: Flashnews/1 min read

The 6th UNESCO Geoparks Conference of Greece and Cyprus is set to begin in the coming days at the Psiloritis Geopark in central Crete. The event brings together geopark representatives from across Greece and Cyprus to discuss geotourism and alternative tourism as tools for the sustainable development of inland and mountain communities. This year's theme focuses specifically on how tourism beyond the coastline can support rural villages and highland areas. For visitors, the conference highlights Psiloritis as a destination worth exploring: the region around Mount Ida, Crete's highest peak, offers hiking, traditional villages, and protected geological landscapes. Tourists interested in attending or learning more should check with local tourism offices in Rethymno, the nearest major town to the Psiloritis Geopark, for schedules and any public events connected to the conference.