Ayia Napa, Cyprus. Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou said Ayia Napa is using international festivals to promote its hospitality and landscape and to establish itself as a year-round destination. He made the remarks at the 3rd Ayia Napa International Winter Swimming Festival at Makronissos beach.
Festival described as established fixture
Ioannou described the festival as a well-established fixture in the municipality’s sporting and cultural calendar. He said its organisation enables dozens of winter swimmers from Cyprus and abroad to gather, practise their sport and exchange experiences in what he called a shared space of meeting and friendship.
Events linked to broader tourism strategy
Ioannou said international events support the municipality’s strategy of promoting Ayia Napa’s distinctive natural environment and hospitality, while strengthening its profile as an all-year-round tourist destination. He congratulated the organisers, the Winter Swimmers’ Association, the mayor and deputy mayor of Ayia Napa, municipal staff and volunteers, saying their dedication enabled participants and visitors to enjoy what he described as a truly beautiful encounter.
Mayor highlights social, environmental and tourism goals
Ayia Napa mayor Christos Zannettou said the festival’s auspices under the interior minister underlined the importance of initiatives that strengthen social cohesion, promote healthy lifestyles and foster a responsible relationship with Cyprus’ natural environment. He said the support reflected the strategic role of local government in shaping policies that link sport with environmental awareness and quality thematic tourism.
Zannettou said the winter swimming festival plays a key role in extending the tourist season and supporting winter tourism. He said it showed Ayia Napa is not a one-dimensional, seasonal destination, but one with activity throughout the year, adding that such events promote Ayia Napa internationally as a destination focused on experiences, wellness and authentic contact with nature.
How do you think international sporting events can help a destination attract visitors throughout the year?