Naturism, or the practice of non-sexual social nudity, has a long history in Greece. The ancient Greeks were known for their love of physical activity and the human form, and nudity was seen as a natural part of life. However, the modern naturist movement in Greece didn’t start until the early 20th century.
The first known nudist club in Greece was founded in 1927 by a group of intellectuals who were inspired by the naturist movement in Germany. The club, called the “Free Light Society”, was based in Athens and was dedicated to promoting the benefits of naturism, including health, fitness, and body acceptance. However, the club faced significant opposition from conservative elements in Greek society, and it was eventually forced to disband.
Despite the challenges, the naturist movement continued to grow in Greece throughout the 20th century. In the 1950s and 1960s, the Greek Islands became popular destinations for European naturists, who were attracted by the beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere. The island of Crete was particularly popular, with several nudist beaches and clubs springing up around the island.
In the 1970s, the Greek government began to take notice of the growing naturist tourism industry and began to officially designate certain beaches as “free beaches” or “naturist beaches”. This helped to legitimize the naturist movement in Greece and made it easier for naturists to enjoy their lifestyle without fear of legal repercussions.
Today, naturism is still popular in Greece, with many beautiful beaches and resorts dedicated to the practice. Some of the most popular naturist beaches in Greece include Red Beach on the island of Crete, Vassiliki Beach on the island of Lefkada, and Panormos Beach on the island of Mykonos. Many of these beaches have designated areas for naturists and are popular with both locals and tourists.
There are also several naturist resorts in Greece, including the Vritomartis Naturist Resort on Crete, the Likinia Hotel in Pelion, and the Solaris Naturist Resort on the island of Kefalonia. These resorts offer a range of amenities, including swimming pools, restaurants, and accommodations, and are popular with naturists from all over the world.
Overall, the naturist movement in Greece has a rich history and continues to thrive today. Whether you are a seasoned naturist or new to the lifestyle, Greece offers a range of beautiful beaches and resorts where you can enjoy the freedom of social nudity in a welcoming and accepting environment.