- On Monday 19th, the Greek region of the Ionian Sea held an event in Madrid to showcase the destination, where the main new tourist attractions in the area were unveiled, as well as its outstanding cuisine.
- The event, which took place at the Hotel Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá, brought together the main representatives of the region, along with professionals from the tourism sector, the media and tour operators.
The event began with a welcome address by Mr Pantelis Gassios, Counsellor for Economic and Commercial Affairs and Director of the Economic and Commercial Office of the Greek Embassy in Spain, who stressed the importance of continuing to strengthen tourism and economic ties between Greece and Spain.
The event, organised with the support of the Greek Embassy in Spain, the Hellenic Tourism Organisation and the Spanish-Greek Chamber of Commerce, also featured a video message from the Governor of the Ionian Islands, Mr. Ioannis Trepeklís, who highlighted the region’s natural, cultural and gastronomic wealth, as well as its growing popularity among Spanish travellers. During his speech, the Governor pointed out that ‘the Ionian Islands combine history, nature and hospitality, offering a very complete tourist package that responds to the new demands of European travellers.’
This meeting also takes on special relevance in the context of strengthening ties between Spain and Greece: thanks to the increase in direct flights between the two countries — such as the Madrid-Corfu and Barcelona-Corfu routes — Spanish tourism to Greece is growing significantly. This connectivity has contributed to an increase in interest in the Ionian Islands among Spaniards, demonstrating an increasingly close tourist link.
The event also highlighted the collaboration of the Corfu Chamber of Commerce, which sent several gifts for the attendees, as well as the support of Sol de Grecia, a regular collaborator in promoting the destination.
From picturesque fishing villages to imposing Venetian fortresses, the Ionian Islands offer travellers a destination where they can immerse themselves in the local culture and enjoy authentic experiences. Each island has its own charm: Corfu, with its Venetian architecture and more than 200 kilometres of coastline; Paxi, small and wooded, ideal for hiking and water sports; Lefkada, the ‘pearl of the Ionian Sea’, with its imposing castle of Agia Mavra; Kefalonia, known as the “island of joy”, with iconic beaches such as Myrtos and Antísamos; Ithaca, the legendary land of Ulysses, with its wild nature and historical heritage; and Zakynthos, famous for its National Marine Park, its loggerhead turtles and its elegant Venetian architecture.
The Ionian Sea has a mild, humid climate, perfect for enjoying its beaches and practising water sports for much of the year. The region is easily accessible from Spain, with direct flights to Corfu from Madrid and Barcelona during the summer season, as well as ferry connections between the islands.
The event ended with a raffle for several stays in the Ionian Sea, thanks to the collaboration of leading hotel companies in the region. These include Voulgaris Hospitality Group, Zante Hospitality Group, Greek Branch, Cook’s Club and Mareblue Beach Corfu, which have contributed by offering free stays for attendees. This prize draw will allow the winners to discover first-hand the attractions and hospitality of the Ionian Islands.
Afterwards, attendees enjoyed an exclusive cocktail party with Greek and Spanish products, thanks to the collaboration of Olimpo Gourmet, in a relaxed atmosphere in the greenhouse of the Hotel Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá, which served to strengthen ties between professionals in the tourism sector and representatives of the destination. Finally, as a token of appreciation, attendees received a carefully selected assortment of typical products from various local producers from the Corfu Chamber of Commerce.
With this presentation, the Ionian Sea region reaffirms its commitment to positioning itself as one of the most attractive and versatile Mediterranean destinations, where history, nature and Greek hospitality combine to offer an unforgettable experience.
About the IONIAN ISLANDS REGION
The Ionian Islands region is a group of islands located in the Ionian Sea, off the western coast of Greece. Comprising islands such as Corfu, Zakynthos, Kefalonia, Ithaca and many others, this region offers visitors a Mediterranean paradise full of natural beauty, crystal-clear beaches, rich history and culture, and warm, welcoming hospitality against a backdrop of Greek mythology. In the Ionian Islands region, travellers find a unique experience of the authentic charm of the Mediterranean.
About SOL DE GRECIA
Sol de Grecia is a tourism company with deep family roots and a special connection to Spain, founded in 2017. Sol de Grecia continues the tradition started by the previous company, Soleil Grec, with a renewed vision focused especially on event organisation and Spanish-speaking travellers. Its team combines expertise in marketing, tourism and event organisation, and has managed to position itself as a key bridge between Spain and Greece, offering authentic and personalised experiences that showcase both the most iconic islands and the lesser-explored corners of the country.
Source: MUNKA Comunicación