The two islands of Cres and Mali Lošinj are connected by a bridge and various hiking trails, but the trails are in poor condition and cannot be used. For this reason, the destination decided to build a new path that shows the natural and cultural attractions of the two islands. Information on heritage, history and biodiversity will also be displayed on the path, which should also motivate tourists to take a holiday outside the peak seasons. The sustainable use of nature is also an important part of the project through signs for litter removal and campaigns for the removal of litter. In addition, the participants focus primarily on marketing the new trail. This was achieved, for example, through a orgainzed race.
The islands of Cres and Lošinj are connected via numerous walkways, but some of them were overgrown and could not be used. Therefore, a network of hiking bypasses connecting and showcasing the natural and cultural attractions of the Cres and Lošinj islands was envisaged. Clean-up operations are also carried out on the trail. The Via Apsyrtides hiking transversal offers additional value to visitors and enable them to explore the lesser-known part of our islands, simultaneously revitalising the abandoned shepherd’s huts and other buildings, opening visitor centres and providing accommodation services.
Keywords: Cooperation, Redirecting tourism flow, Providing environmental information, Hiking trails, Tourist product creation, Extending seasons Ecotourism
