Rural tourism is growing rapidly in Cyprus.
This is evidenced by the growing interest of the public in staying in agritourism facilities.
Deputy Tourism Minister Costas Koumis recently noted that bookings for traditional rural guesthouses and rooms in authentic hotels increased by 14% in 2024 compared to 2023. Compared to before 2019, however, the increase was 36%. In addition, the number of visitors to such accommodation has increased by 17% year-on-year and by 42% over the last five years.
The popularity of agri-tourism is driven by travellers' desire for an environmentally friendly, unhurried and unique holiday experience. Visitors don't just want to admire nature, they want to immerse themselves in traditional life, sample local cuisine, participate in farm work and enjoy solitude away from mass tourism.
To support this positive dynamic, the Cypriot government is investing €9.5 million in the regeneration and development of rural areas. Some 210 projects in 200 rural communities will be funded through the grant programme, Koumis explained. The money will be used to restore historic buildings, improve public spaces, create new tourist attractions and develop infrastructure for visitors.
The authorities also intend to strengthen the marketing strategy to promote agritourism as a unique tourism product in Cyprus. New promotional materials highlighting the benefits of holidaying in the villages are planned. This campaign is expected to be launched in 2025.
The development of rural and mountainous areas is one of the priorities of the government of President Nicos Christodoulidis. So far, more than 20 initiatives worth over €30 million have been announced to improve life in rural areas.
Our ultimate goal is to improve the quality of life in the villages, make them centres of sustainable development and attract more tourists,' Costas Koumis said.
Agritourism in Cyprus is not just a fashionable fad, but an important part of the sustainable tourism strategy. The rural areas of the island are becoming an attractive holiday destination, offering tourists cultural immersion, cosy traditional houses and unspoilt nature. With increased investment in infrastructure and an active promotional campaign, interest in agritourism is expected to grow in the coming years.