7 years since the Lika Destination Cluster was founded
The Lika Destination cluster is celebrating its seventh anniversary. It was founded in February 2017 with a clear goal - to brand the destination of Lika. Seven years later, the cluster achieved significant successes in promoting sustainable tourism, raising awareness of the beauty of the entire region among tourists and local residents, and the even development of the destination.
In addition to statistical indicators as irrefutable proof of progress, cluster president Petra Kovačević emphasized: "It is important to develop the lesser-known parts of the destination and extend the stay of tourists in the destination." In accordance with this, today almost 300 stakeholders are involved in the development of the destination, which through synergistic action, step by step, improve the level of their business, and thus the recognition of the destination of Lika.
The most prominent part of the cluster's business is related to the regional certificate "Lika Quality", which enriched the tourist offer of the destination. This system not only highlights the exceptional quality of local products, but also directly involves local family farms in tourism development. Tourists have the opportunity to taste authentic local products, which boosts the local economy and creates lasting connections between producers and consumers. An example of the development of the Lika destination, which in this way includes the local population, was included in the Manual on encouraging sustainable tourism practices published by the European Travel Commission.
Furthermore, the joint ticket of the Lika destination, formed in cooperation with protected natural areas, contributed to the extension of tourists' stay and the branding of the destination as a protected natural area. In this way, it not only encourages tourists to explore lesser-known locations, but also raises awareness of the importance of nature conservation.
The "Stay 3 days in Lika" project is also aimed at extending the stay of tourists, promoting the destination and encouraging visits to less developed areas. Through this project, the cluster is actively working to increase the visibility and attractiveness of lesser-known but rich natural and cultural resources.
The cluster's pride is also reflected in the fact that it has been included in the list of TOP 100 sustainable destinations for two years in a row. These awards testify to the cluster's commitment to sustainable tourism development and a responsible approach. Last year, they also applied for the prestigious Green Destinations certificate, which represents another step towards global recognition in the field of sustainable tourism.
In its seven years of existence, the Lika Destination Cluster has made a concrete contribution to the even and sustainable development of tourism in the destination of Lika. They have successfully implemented over 30 projects focused on sustainable development activities, networking of stakeholders and encouraging cooperation. They also organized numerous educations and workshops, cooperated with the scientific community, and included schools in their projects.
The cluster has become an inspiration to other destinations in the development of similar innovative approaches to sustainable tourism and branding, thus confirming its role in creating positive changes at the local and global level.
