Deputy Minister of Tourism Proposes Glamping Regulations
In a recent move to refine the burgeoning glamping industry, Deputy Minister of Tourism Costas Koumis presented a set of proposals to the House commerce committee. These proposals are designed to guide the operation of luxury camping, or glamping units, and are aimed at reviving a bill that had previously faced rejection.
Koumis articulated the government’s vision for the glamping sector, emphasizing the need for these sites to blend seamlessly into nature while offering a touch of luxury. The target demographic for these sites, according to Koumis, are travelers with a strong environmental awareness. He underscored the importance of situating new glamping developments within already developed areas to mitigate the impact on protected landscapes.
Among the key recommendations brought forward is the exclusion of car parking facilities adjacent to glamping units. Instead, visitors would park in designated areas set at a distance from their temporary abodes, preserving the integrity of the natural surroundings. Koumis pointed out that these luxury campsites should be nestled in “very unique landscapes,” enhancing their appeal to those seeking an exclusive outdoor experience.
Furthermore, Koumis highlighted that all construction related to glamping should be temporary and comply with spatial planning policies overseen by the interior ministry. This stipulation aims to ensure that the natural environment remains unspoiled for future generations. The deputy minister also brought attention to the fact that some glamping sites currently in operation are doing so without legal authorization, signaling a need for regulatory oversight in this expanding sector.
The proposals are now poised for discussion in the plenum, where they will be scrutinized before potentially becoming part of the legal framework governing Cyprus’s tourism industry. This push for regulation reflects a growing recognition of glamping as a sustainable and lucrative niche within the broader travel market.