The Cretan town Ierapetra in the prefecture of Lasithi was awarded the Golden Pan-European Prize for the high quality of its beaches. The award was granted by the European Union beaches and coastal areas (EUCC) during a special ceremony in Torres Verdas, Portugal.The EUCC General Director, A. Shalman, delivered the award to Ierapetra Mayor Sifis Anastasakis and the Municipality of Ierapetra, with international recognition on the list of 50 areas of southern Europe known for its high quality beaches.
This award attests to the quality of the local beaches, where every year thousands of tourists enjoy it – Greeks and foreigners as well.
“The golden award presents a top international acknowledgment for the beaches of Ierapetra,” mentioned the Mayor adding that, “the region of Ierapetra is one of the 10 top coastal destinations in Europe.” He also explained that “the high environmental quality of the beaches, the rich cultural legacy and the region’s local traditions” distinguished Ierapetra as “one of the top destinations across Europe with the recognition of a world class organization.”
The committee evaluated 1,000 international tourist destinations ranging from Finland to the Mediterranean, of which 100 regions were chosen for their beauty, attractiveness to visitors who exhibit interest in natural areas, cultural legacy, environment and sustainability. Ierapetra ranked second in the top ten list of Europe.
