This year, 251 Greek beaches have been declared closed to any kind of building, including everything from hired sunbeds and umbrellas to temporary wooden structures.

The ban means that you will not be able to hire umbrellas or sunbeds at some 251 beaches, many of which are marine NATURA 2000 sites.

The Greek Environment Ministry says the decision is aimed at strengthening the protection of beaches of special aesthetic, geomorphological and environmental importance, as well as preserving valuable habitats and the flora and fauna species that depend on them. (Euronews)