On Saturday, March 21, 2026, the international conference entitled “Oltre il Cammino – Models of Participatory Management of Trails” took place in Avezzano, Italy, at the Irti Hall. The event was organized by Società Cooperativa Ambecò, as an accredited Adult Education (EDA) provider, within the framework of the Erasmus+ programme (Key Action KA120), highlighting the importance of European cooperation and the exchange of know-how.

The conference brought together representatives of the Abruzzo Region, tourism development organizations, municipalities, as well as experts in sustainable tourism and local development. Best practices from local, regional, and international levels were presented.

Within the framework of the conference, and following an invitation, Olga Karagianni presented the work of the Andros Research Center and the Andros Routes initiative, as well as its impact on the development of Andros, as a best practice example at the European level.

Her presentation, entitled “15 years of Andros Routes, a community project on the island of Andros,” highlighted the long-term and systematic work carried out through the Andros Routes initiative. Particular emphasis was given to the participatory management model, collaboration with the local community, and the connection between trails, the local economy, and the extension of the tourist season.

The conference provided an important opportunity for dialogue among experts, institutional representatives, and professionals in the field, with the main objective of highlighting the role of local communities in the management of trails. The event was held under the auspices of the Municipality of Avezzano, with the collaboration of important organizations such as the Sirente Velino Regional Park, UNCEM, Touring Experience, BorghIin, Marsica Experience, and Marsicaland, confirming the strong partnerships developed around issues of sustainable development and territorial regeneration in the Marsica area.

The participation of the Andros Research Center in the conference confirms its active role in the European dialogue on trails and sustainable development, while further strengthening the international recognition of Andros as a model for the management and promotion of hiking routes.