Agriculture & Food, Volume 10, 2022

Abstract: Agriculture and tourism are traditionally considered main pillars of the Greek economy. Interconnecting agriculture and tourism gives a boost to both economic sectors. Greek agricultural products such as olive oil, wine and specific cheese products are well known worldwide. They are exported to many countries and tourists want to experience their unique and authentic taste when they visit Greece. However, a significant part of the Greek rural population moved from the countryside to the urban centers. This phenomenon occurred because of socioeconomic changes, that happened in recent decades. Moreover, improvements of cultivation methods and production processes in agriculture also took place. This study examines the relationship between agricultural production and tourism. In particular, are examined the utilization of agricultural infrastructure for tourism purposes and the new trend for the development of organized agritourist services. The legal framework governing agritouristic enterprises is also examined. In particular, is elaborated licensing, certification, control, supervision and provided services, according to relevant law provisions, which were recently enriched by Greek law 4875/2021. Moreover, this study analyzes how special forms of tourism such as agrotourism and wine tourism boost the agricultural income. The contribution of agritourism in the creation of direct and indirect jobs and in retaining the economically active population in the countryside is demonstrated. In addition, focus is brought on the contribution of agritourism in the protection and promotion of agricultural environment. It is also examined how tourists are acquainted with traditional professions, with local cultivation methods of agricultural production and with local gastronomy and food tasting. It is also demonstrated how the customs, traditions and cultural elements of a place are interwoven with the identity and the brand name of agricultural products.