**Geroskipou Blue Flag Beaches Receive Excellent Water Quality Rating**
Geroskipou, Cyprus – The municipality of Geroskipou has announced that the sea water at its Blue Flag beaches has been classified as having excellent quality, following recent laboratory tests conducted by the Cyprus Marine Environment Protection Association (CYMEPA). This assessment, released on Thursday, highlights the commitment to maintaining high environmental standards at the area’s popular beaches.
The testing focused on three specific locations: the Municipal Beach, the former Cyprus Tourism Organisation municipal beach, and Pachyammos 2 beach, which is situated in front of the Ledra hotel. According to the municipality, all water samples collected from these beaches received an “excellent quality” classification, confirming their status as safe and clean bathing sites.
This positive evaluation not only reflects the quality of Geroskipou’s beaches but also contributes to Cyprus’s overall reputation as a leading destination for clean and safe bathing waters in Europe. In a recent announcement, it was noted that 56 beaches and two marinas across the island were awarded the Blue Flag for 2026. This prestigious recognition is granted to locations that meet strict international standards regarding environmental management, water quality, safety, services, and accessibility.
During the Blue Flag awards ceremony, Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou emphasized the importance of Cyprus's beaches, stating they form an integral part of the island’s collective memory. She highlighted that the beauty of the coastline is underpinned by the consistently high quality of its bathing waters. “Cyprus has ranked first in Europe for bathing water quality in the European Commission’s last three evaluations,” Panayiotou remarked, attributing this success to the collaborative efforts of various authorities committed to environmental protection and public health.
The Blue Flag program is recognized internationally as a symbol of quality for beaches and marinas. It is awarded only to those that meet rigorous environmental and operational criteria. The award encompasses more than just clean and well-managed beaches; it also addresses broader environmental standards, including management practices, safety measures, and the responsible operation of coastal areas. Additionally, it promotes environmental protection, visitor information, and public awareness.
The criteria for the Blue Flag award are comprehensive, with 33 criteria for beaches and 38 for marinas, all aligned with European standards. Notably, Cyprus stands out as one of only four European Union countries where over 95 percent of bathing waters achieved an excellent classification, with the island recording a remarkable 100 percent. The other countries achieving this distinction are Austria, Bulgaria, and Greece.
As Geroskipou celebrates its excellent water quality rating, the municipality continues to work towards maintaining and enhancing the environmental standards that have earned its beaches such high accolades. The commitment to preserving the natural beauty and safety of these coastal areas is paramount, ensuring that both residents and visitors can enjoy Cyprus's rich maritime heritage.