Andros takes the first step – Report on the information event for the European Leading Quality Region certification
With active public participation and a clear orientation towards the future, the information event for the European Leading Quality REGION certification was held at the premises of the Cyclades Chamber of Commerce in Vakoni.
Participants
Representatives of local and regional government attended the event. The Mayor of Andros Theodosis Sousoudis underlined the Municipality’s intention to support the initiative, highlighting its connection to the island’s sustainable development. The Prefect of Andros Anna Vrettou congratulated the ARC team for their continuous action over the past 15 years and stressed the importance of cooperation between the bodies, while the representative of the Cyclades Chamber of Commerce, Yiannis Xanthos, referred to the role of businesses in providing quality services and in connecting tourism with the local economy.
The event was also attended by the President of the Municipal Council Athina Tsatsomirou and the members of the municipal authority Mr. Avgoustinos, Mr. Moustakas and Mr. Vidalis, the President of the “Together for Andros” party Dimitris Lotsaris, presidents of local communities and cultural associations, professionals and owners of tourist accommodations, tourist organizations, producers, active volunteers of the trails and active citizens.
40 people in person and approximately 15 participants online via Zoom attended the event.
Certification objective and evaluation process
The purpose of the event was to present the certification of Andros as Leading Quality Region – Best of Europe, an important perspective and process that is directly linked to sustainable tourism development and the strengthening of the island’s identity. The experts of the European Hiking Federation, Daria Regozini and Liane Jordan, analyzed the stages of the process and the specifications that an area must meet in order to receive the distinguished certification.
The multi-level nature of the process, the need for planning and coordination, as well as the need for patience, stability and continuous cooperation between public bodies, professionals, local bodies and the community were also highlighted.
The process includes the evaluation of the entire hiking network and the services provided, documentation through a candidacy file and an on-site inspection by specialized evaluators.
Particular reference was made to the quality criteria, which concern, among others, the maintenance of the hiking network, clear signage, reliable visitor information, accessibility of the routes and the provision of hiker-friendly services by hospitality, catering and transport professionals. At the same time, it was emphasized that the overall experience experienced by the hiker plays a decisive role: the points of interest, the natural environment, the cultural heritage, the gastronomy and the authenticity of the place.
Strategic importance and development benefits for Andros
The representatives of the European Hiking Federation described the Leading Quality Region – Best of Europe certification as “the Champions League of hiking destinations”, underlining that it is the highest European distinction in the hiking sector. This designation reflects the level of quality, organization and overall experience offered by a destination in order to join this network of excellence.
Special mention was also made of the significant perspective that opens up for Andros in the case of successful certification. Specifically, it was pointed out that it could claim to organize the next Eurorando, the major European hiking festival that takes place every five years and brings together tens of thousands of hikers from all over Europe. Such an organization would constitute a top international event for the island, with significant benefits for the local economy, its visibility and its overall recognition.
The Leading Quality Region – Best of Europe certification is not just an honorary title. It is a comprehensive strategic development tool, which contributes to the extension of the tourist season, the attraction of high-quality visitors and the creation of stable income for the local economy. At the same time, it enhances the protection and rational management of the natural and cultural reserve, cultivates environmental awareness and strengthens cooperation between institutions and citizens. Its social impact is particularly important, as it promotes collectivity, active participation and pride of residents for their place.
Andros as a model island hiking destination
Andros has the conditions to become the first island in Europe to receive the certification, which will enhance its international visibility and place it on the European map of top hiking destinations.
The discussion highlighted a common assumption: trails are an integral element of the cultural heritage and identity of the place. The certification effort aims not only to enhance tourism but also to maintain the quality of life of the residents and protect the natural environment.
The next steps include the establishment of an organized working group, which will undertake the coordination of the involved bodies, the monitoring of progress, the preparation of the candidacy file and the investigation of financial tools and resources. The establishment of this group will form the foundation for the systematic and effective implementation of the effort.
The event concluded in an atmosphere of optimism and collective responsibility. Andros moves on to the next stage, guided by cooperation, knowledge and consistency, seeking to highlight the wealth of its trails and enhance the sustainable development of the island.
We would like to express our sincere gratitude for their support of the event to the Association of Rooms and Apartments for Rent of Hydroussa “Agios Filippos”, the Cyclades Chamber of Commerce, Fast Ferries, Golden Star Ferries, the agency Porto Andros, Explore Andros, Margarita Korachai, Michalis Tridimas and Yannis Vathias for photos.
