Tourist train project set to revive Rodopi Mountains Railway Line

A major regional meeting was held to discuss the reactivation of the historic railway line stretching from Alexandroupoli to Xanthi, with the goal of transforming it into a tourist attraction. The meeting, hosted by Paranesti Mayor Anastasios Kayaoglou, emphasized the line’s potential to drive development in the broader Rodopi mountainous region.

The gathering saw participation from key political and regional leaders, including SYRIZA MP for Drama Theofilos Xanthopoulos, Eastern Macedonia and Thrace Regional Governor Christodoulos Topsidis, Deputy Governors Michalis Mourvetidis (Drama) and Polyxeni Brika (Xanthi), as well as Mayors Savas Mihailidis (Nestos), Giorgos Papadopoulos (Drama), and Stratos Kondos (Xanthi). Also in attendance were hotel association president Angelos Kallias and numerous municipal and institutional representatives.

The proposal to revive the Drama – Paranesti – Stavroupoli – Toxotes – Xanthi railway line under a thematic and sustainable tourism model received unanimous support. Participants highlighted the line’s potential to showcase the area’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

As a result of the meeting, it was agreed that a working group would be formed to oversee the planning and implementation of the project.

Speaking after the meeting, Mayor Kayaoglou stated:

“Our region is home to unique natural beauty and authenticity. Reactivating the railway line for tourism could serve as an engine for development not only for Paranesti but for the entire Rodopi mountain area. Our goal is to foster sustainable growth and regional cooperation by creating a favorable investment environment. As the Municipality of Paranesti, we are committed to supporting all efforts in this direction.”