Ten years of quality and commitment
The on-site inspection for the renewal of the European Leading Quality Trails-Best of Europe certification of the 100km Andros Route has been completed
The European Hiking Federation re-evaluates the 100km Andros Route every three years as part of the Leading Quality Trails – Best of Europe certification, a distinction that is not awarded permanently, but is renewed only when it is proven in practice that the quality remains high.
After four months of systematic work, the Andros Routes sub-team in charge of the re-certification task handed over the measurement file to the 2 European Hiking Federation experts who traveled to Andros from 17 to 22 February to inspect the route.
The preceding months were full of training, field measurements, signposting checks and evaluation of the 23 strict European criteria.
The sub-group that “ran” the process was none other than that of the Route Angels volunteer coordinators, who prepared for the recertification processes through organized training and practice in the field that included:
- deep understanding of certification requirements
- familiarization with measurement tools
- recording and measurements of the 23 criteria for every 4km of the route
Detailed measurements were carried out on most of the route, especially at points that have undergone changes over the past three years, such as changes in the walking surface.
Tables and maps with the measurement data were included in the re-certification file, with detailed documentation for each section of the route.
The 23 certification criteria are not simply technical measurements but evaluate the qualities maintained by the route and concern not only the natural environment and landscapes of the route, but also the history, culture and signage infrastructure.
The inspection process was completed last week with an on-site inspection by the Federation’s inspectors, who walked a large part of the route, evaluating the data based on the file that had been submitted to them.
The audit findings are expected in the coming days with the improvements that will be requested and then there will have to be corrective actions on our part.
The cost of the recertification, which amounts to approximately 4.400 euros, will be covered by our organization.
The renewal of the certification for the Andros Routes project represents:
- the value and challenges of team effort
- an important tool for the international promotion of Andros
- a sustainable lever for extending the tourist season
- a distinction that supports the local economy and which reinforces any additional effort and action for the island’s paths
- a European methodology for the preservation and promotion of the island’s natural and cultural heritage
Maintaining the certification is also proof of how a project from society for society, with consistency, knowledge and love for Andros, can maintain a European-level distinction over time.
The paths of Andros remain alive thanks to the people who take care of them.
Volunteers, donors, hikers and friends of Andros, we thank you.
Without you, no European certification would be possible!
We would like to thank the companies Fast Ferries, Golden Star Ferries and the Porto Andros agency for providing the ferry tickets and Explore Andros for hosting and transporting the European Hiking Federation inspectors.
📌 See all the ways you can help by clicking here.
