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Integrated Development Project
A unique sustainable thematic resort The Traditional Village of the Future
for the family tourism
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Contents 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13.
Project idea Aim of the project Location The village of Eptagoneia Development objectives Project specifications Thematic sections Activities and hobbies “EuroVillage� thematic park Design and Planning Implementation plan - Budget Creating a positive climate Marketing and Promotion
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Project idea Market Studies of recent years for deployments and tourism show a substantial increase of consumer interest for relaxation, recreation and nature. Mountains and the countryside is a preferred option for residence and tourism, as an alternative to noisy cities and crowded beaches
The Olivia Natural Village� idea was conceived in 2008 with the vision to develop a traditional, thematic resort that will meet modern preferences and demands. Residents and visitors of the resort will be able to have contact with the nature, participate in a series of activities and enjoy relaxation and tranquility of the countryside, without missing comfort, warmth, social interaction and fun, essential requirements of modern leaving. The initial phase of the project is completed with the conceptual design, the selection of suitable location and acquisition of appropriate land for a unique and innovative project , to become unprecedented reference of modern mixed development of traditional themed resorts.
Chrysses Nicolaides Director CNE Business Development Ltd Integrated developments, ecological and natural villages, attract today large investments in many countries taking advantage of the increasing trend and demand for settlements and resorts which offer relaxation, recreation and contact with nature.
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Aim of the project The project concerns the development of a new destination based on the modern concept for diversification and specialization of accommodation, recreation and tourism. An innovative eco-development project, unique in its kind in Cyprus, which will serve as a model for the development of rural tourism. A thematic project which consists of an eco-village surrounded with theme parks and thematic sections related to ecology, tradition and life in the Cypriot countryside. In recent years, mountains and the countryside are preferred destinations with unique winter and summer resorts to attract the interest of local and foreign visitors. Multi theme is a characteristic feature of alternative tourism, replacing the mass or conventional tourism, which includes various, mild and special forms of tourism. The major difference relates to the concern for the natural environment and local culture.
The success of the project is based on the implementation of the new integrated development approach, adopted successfully in many countries of the world and which refers to high quality innovative projects characterized with the careful selection of the location and the application of the principles of sustainable development. Cyprus is offered for alternative forms of sustainable tourism development, with the rich natural environment, good climate, the historical and religious background, in conjunction with the other advantages of the island, local transport, accessibility, infrastructure. The aim of the project design is to give a real opportunity for alternative tourism, focusing on popular categories of activities in the countryside. The study of the project began in 2008 with the selection of the location and this initial phase ended with the acquisition of the neighboring pieces of land for the creation of the critical mass required for the development of the project.
“Olivia Natural Village� resort, which takes the form of a natural eco-village in the mountains, enriched with specific thematic Parks and recreation complexes, using all the natural and cultural resources of the region and exploiting its comparative advantages and resources of natural and cultural environment. Residents and guests of the settlement will be able to live in harmony with nature, enjoying the natural beauties and the healthy environment and take part in a series of interesting activities, without missing comfort, warmth, social interaction and fun, essential requirements of modern living.
The Traditional Village of the Future
Integrated developments are today basic lever for development of specialized tourism of high income level.
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Selection of the location Selection of the appropriate location was key to the success of the project. Accessibility, climate, natural beauty of the landscape and sights.
The site for the development of the resort is on a hill near the beautiful village of Eptagoneia, about 17 km from the Eastern coast of Limassol. The piece of land, 74,768 sq.m., is tangential to the new Limassol-Eptagoneia road, is surrounded by fertile land with green gardens and orchards and by high mountain peaks on the horizon with an impressive and immediate disclosure of the beauty of nature and the Cypriot countryside.
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The study of the project began in 2008 with the selection of the location. This important phase is concluded with the acquisition of the neighboring pieces of land for the creation of the critical mass required for the development of the project.
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Eptagoneia Village Eptagoneia lies in a semi-mountainous area, it is bright green in spring and in summer, surrounded by high mountains at an altitude of 475 meters above sea level and is served by a good road network, connected to the Limassol-Nicosia highway through Parekklisia village. Eptagoneia has an average annual rainfall of about 630 mm. The main crops in its lands are citrus (tangerines and oranges), olives, almonds, carobs and cereals. Potatoes and varieties of wine grapes are also grown there. Stock breeding is very limited. Eptagoneia was known at least since the beginning of the Frankish rule. Originally, it constituted one of the domains of the Templars in Cyprus. After the dissolution of the Order of the Knights Templar, Eptagoneia fell into the hands of the Knights of Saint John who had Kolossi as their headquarters, and it constituted one of the villages of the Big Commandaria. Eptagoneia is mentioned on ancient maps as Astagoneia. Eptagoneia is included in the Pitsilia Uniform Rural Development Plan and has highly benefited from the construction of land reclamation works, the improvement and asphalting of the Eptakagoneia-Arakapa road and the building of four earthen reservoirs which have contributed with their operation to the extension of the irrigated surfaces of the village area.
Today approximately 350 residents chose to remain in the village, considering the advantages of living in the countryside.
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The main objectives Target 1
Quality of life and welfare Ensure security and prosperity. The accommodation includes all the comforts, the use of natural materials and healthy diet. Provision of facilities for people with disabilities in the accommodation and infrastructure . Organisation of educational events on the themes of sustainable living and interaction with nature, sport and health.
Target 2
Natural Environment
Target 3
Green Development Employ renewable energy sources for lighting and equipment needs. Garbage collection system with separation of recyclable materials. Information and awareness of residents and visitors on cleanliness and environment issues. Placement of suitable containers in public spaces for the collection of waste with labeling information and instructions. Program management and protection of water resources and water consumption.
Protection of the natural environment, biodiversity and the ecosystem. Infrastructure connection with the natural environment of the settlement and the surrounding region. Conservation of the natural environment and ecological zones and limiting the build-up area. Create additional green spaces, thematic gardens and organic farm.
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Στόχος 4
Culture and Heritage Provide information to visitors and organise programs to explore the local culture and heritage.
Στόχος 5
Transport Restrict the use of cars inside the site. Promote alternate means of transportation (bikes, trails, horses, electric vehicles).
Στόχος 6
Food supply Cooperation with local producers. Organic production in the farm. Offering organic menus in the restaurants and other leisure areas.
Στόχος 7
Benefit to the local community The development of the project will have a positive impact on the local community and the region with the creation of employment opportunities and the promotion of local products and services.
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Project Specifications The installations and operation of “Olivia Natural Village” theme resort will be in harmony with the natural environment of the region and will include the following sections :
Accommodation (village houses and hotel) Restaurant, cafeteria, bar Workshops and displays of traditional products Multi-purpose rooms, Conference room, swimming pool, Wellness Centre, SPA, gym, pool Organic nursery Farm Free-range animals “EuroVillage” theme park Bicycle Center Parking Spaces Green areas and parks
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Thematic sections –1 Residential The section consists of a number of rural houses and villas designed based on the Cyprus village architectural line and built with traditional materials (stone and wood).
Chapel The small chapel in the centre of the village is an indispensable part of a natural village.
Hotel
Restaurant
Hotel with a number of rooms, restaurant, cafeteria, conference room and wellness centre (SPA).
The traditional restaurant will offer healthy meals using high quality local products.
Wellness Centre The Wellness Centre with SPA, Sports Center, and other relevant sections will be part of the hotel.
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Bike Centre The center will serve cyclists with information, maps, bicycles for hire and technical support.
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Thematic sections –2 Organic Farm
Green areas and parks
Organic farm for vegetables, fruit and other trees. Residents wishing to engage in gardening and agriculture will be provided with tools and guidance.
The gardens and green areas will consist entirely of trees, flowers and plants that thrive in the Cypriot countryside and the surrounding area.
Small Animal Farm and Stables Small Animal Farm will be set up with a variety of farmyard animals, including horses, goats, rabbits and chickens. There will be horse riding lessons and walkouts within the village and in the surrounding area.
Landscape structures Wooden bridges, pathways and other structures will be part of the landscape design to serve residents and be an attractive element in the overall space decor.
Traditional products
“EuroVillage” Theme Park
Exhibitions and displays of traditional products such as sweets, jams, wine from local wineries, honey, bread, ham, cheese, milk, etc.
“EuroVillage” theme park is a holiday resort and educational centre for children and young people.
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Activities and hobbies Residents and guests are seeking relaxation in a calm environment in an effort to escape from urban everyday life. Residents and guests of the resort will have the opportunity to participate in a series of activities offered both within the village and the surrounding area which is ideal for the following activities:
Exploring nature
Exploring culture and heritage in the region
Organise outdoor leisure events
Acquaintance with the habits of everyday life of the inhabitants of the region
Study and work with nature
Secure play areas
Horse riding and walkouts Mountaineering
The Traditional Village of the Future
Biking— mountain bikes
Gardening
Walk the area-nature trails
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«EuroVillage» Theme Park From “Virtual Reality” to reality “EuroVillage” theme park is an holiday and educational centre for children and young people. The idea of the project resulted from the mania of millions of Internet users for virtual games dealing with agriculture, plants, vegetables and flowers and generally work with nature. “EuroVillage” theme park will satisfy this growing need of young people not virtually but in reality.
Young people who take part in educational programs of the Park, will reside in specially built rural houses and will undertake various functions/occupations, offering their services in the community of “EuroVillage”, with the guidance of experienced instructors. The choice of occupation will be for each specific program in order to give the possibility of repetitive enrollments, selecting a different activity, enriching their knowledge and their experiences. The Park will accommodate groups from Cyprus and abroad for weekly accommodation and participation in educational programs. There will be an initial training and guidance for each occupational group and practice of the profession for the remaining period. Professions will relate to all services necessary for the operation of the small community of “EuroVillage” (Chairman and member of the Community Council, security, salesperson of traditional and other products, waiter or waitress, cook, cleaner etc.). Occupants will be able simultaneously to participate in activities in the farm.
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Participants will be remunerated for their services and especially for their performance with ' MicroEuros' which can use to buy products and services within the village -as in real life. Judges and guiders will be the trainers who will be responsible for security and discipline throughout the duration of the programmes, day and night.
«EuroVillage» is a unique recreational and educational park, a small eco-village
After working hours, all participants will be able to enjoy healthy recreation and entertainment, essential elements of young people’s lives. In “EuroVillage” together with the comfortable little houses, there will be a restaurant, cafeteria, event room and a film projection room. Parents of the children and young people who participate in the programs can choose to stay in “Olivia Natural Village”. Children and young people may participate in special weekend programs, provided they went through the basic educational programme. This will help children and young people who are associated with the farm animals or plants, to continue to offer care and monitor progress.
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Spatial Planning The spatial planning will be based on the initial design and with the following objectives:
Balanced and sustainable spatial development of the settlement.
Configuration and linkage of spaces for social and cultural activities.
Balance between development and protection of the physiognomy of the region.
Qualitative upgrade of the area with emphasis on improving the quality and aesthetics of the built environment.
Preservation of architectural heritage and visibility of the region.
Development of appropriate circulatory system, small roads, trails and paths, which will serve the needs of the residents and visitors.
Creation of adequate parking facilities.
Preparation of guidelines for the development of the settlement and the harmonization of architectural design with the wider region and the existing settlements of the village.
Broadening and enriching services offered by exploiting the possibilities of the natural environment and landscape of the region, for recreation, entertainment and training while maintaining the quality of life of residents.
The Traditional Village of the Future
“Olivia Natural Village” will blend perfectly with the terrain elevation that dominates in the region of the village of Eptagwneia. The design and development of the settlement considers the traditional architecture with the use of local materials (stone, wood, etc.), and the preservation of natural terrain slopes, avoiding extensive excavations, to be in harmony with the natural environment. .
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The development of Spatial and urban planning will be based on the following :
Access The movement of motor traffic will be limited. The design permits construction of small (necessary) roads to facilitate access to public spaces and connection to selected points of the settlement, simultaneously with a local system of pedestrian and cycling paths.
Parking Cars and buses will park in dedicated parking spaces specially chosen for safety and avoidance of aesthetic pollution. Appropriate signage for directions and relevant instructions to the drivers.
Lighting Appropriate lighting cover all facilities, roads and buildings with specific outdoor lighting installed, always taking into account the protection of the natural environment and avoiding lighting pollution.
Infrastructure and services Expansion of infrastructure and services will be based on development objectives and actions provided by the initial design, avoiding the destruction of the natural environment. Telephone and electricity cables will be underground as well as facility for the water and sanitation in the residential area. All necessary and appropriate measures will be taken for minimising the negative impact of public services installations on the environment.
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Cleanliness– Garbage A Garbage collection system will be established with separation of recyclable materials. Information and awareness of residents and visitors on issues relating to clean environment. Suitable containers for the collection of waste will be available in public spaces with labeling information and instructions.
Housing - Hotel Accommodation for residents and visitors will be constructed following the traditional village style and will have the basic amenities: fireplace, playground, wine cellar, traditional furniture and stunning view of the surrounding area providing traditional luxury for people with refined taste and aesthetics.
Ικανοποίηςη των αναγκών ςε ενέργεια για φωτιςμό και λειτουργία εξοπλιςμού με τη χρήςη ανανεώςιμων πηγών ενέργειασ.
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Implementation Plan—Budget Plan The implementation of the project follows the basic steps of thematic integrated development projects: Stage 1: Concept and Initial Planning
Vision and objective Initial planning and specifications Implementation plan Funding
Stage 2: Project Design
Master Plan Initial drawings and specifications Obtain planning permission Final drawings Obtain building permission Final project costs and operational budget
Stage 3: Project construction
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Budget The budget cost is estimated to €22 mil. analyzed in the following table.
The project in full development and operation, is expected to offer employment to approximately 50 people working in multiple specialties. Private investment will be strengthened by European and State programmes, subsidizing actions and projects. The total cost of the project will be finalized with the completion of the initial planning and after receiving offers from selected architects and contractors.
The sources of income are analysed in table below:
A key part of the investment concerns the construction of housing for sale or long-term lease το facilitate injection of funds. The second part deals with investment to projects related to the philosophy of the green economy and to theme parks to promote ' green ' entrepreneurship and boosting employment.
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Creating a positive climate
Marketing and Promotion
Creating a positive climate for the project is vital for the process of implementing the project and is achieved with the cooperation of the Monitoring Team with the following actions:
The use of unobtrusive procedures for the marketing and promotion of the resort targeting the source of update of visitors and other target groups:
Organized promotion and visibility of the project.
Related media and publications
Promote all positive and innovative parts of the project.
Promotion of selected actions that will highlight activity and sense of moving forward.
Organizations, agencies and tourist offices which specialize and incorporate this kind of selective tourism in their programs
The identification and involvement of all stakeholders who have particular interest in the project objectives and strategy and can assist in the implementation.
Specialised magazines and travel literature
The Internet
Creating appropriate printed material and brochures
Organizing information and networking
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All advertising and promotion will be based on the uniqueness of the resort while promoting history, tradition and the beauty of the region along with the quality of the offered services.
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Flora and fauna of Cyprus
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Integrated Development Project
A unique sustainable thematic resort for the family tourism
Contact : Chrysses Nicolaides Tel +357 99476837, Fax +357 25338103 Email c.nicolaides@cytanet.com.cy
Limassol – Cyprus January 2012
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