The beginning of September in Lika is traditionally reserved for one of the most anticipated recreational events in the region, and this year it brings an even richer program and a unique experience for all lovers of nature and active holidays. The Croatian Walking Festival, which will be held on September 6th and 7th, will once again turn Gospić into the center of the walking world, gathering participants from all over Croatia, as well as from many other countries. The organizers recently proudly presented the official maps and route details, revealing itineraries that skillfully combine the natural beauties of the Lika landscape with the rich cultural and historical heritage of this area. The festival, which grows year by year, has confirmed its status on the international scene by becoming part of the prestigious IML Walking Association (International Marching League), a global family that brings together the most significant walking events worldwide. This membership not only raises the reputation of the event itself but also guarantees high standards of organization and attracts an increasing number of foreign walkers eager to discover the hidden gems of Croatia.

This unique event is not competitive in nature, which means the emphasis is placed on enjoying movement, socializing, and soaking up the atmosphere. Participants walk at their own pace, without the pressure of time, making the festival ideal for all generations – from families with children to experienced hikers and walkers. The interest in this year's edition has exceeded all expectations, and applications are arriving day by day, confirming that the Croatian Walking Festival has become an unmissable event on the calendar of recreation and active tourism. All registered participants can expect a rich starter pack, and along the trails, there will be refreshment stations with water and fresh fruit, as well as organizational support to ensure the safety and comfort of everyone present.

Trails that tell the story of giants

The organizational team, led by the Croatian Walking Federation, has designed three trails of different lengths to adapt the festival to the various physical fitness levels of the participants. Walkers can choose between routes of 10+, 20+, and 30+ kilometers, each offering a completely different perspective and experience of Lika's nature and history. "By publishing detailed maps, we wanted to allow all participants to get acquainted in advance with what awaits them and to more easily choose the route that best suits their wishes and abilities. Whether it is a shorter family walk ideal for relaxed socializing or a more demanding all-day challenge for the most resilient, each trail is designed to provide an unforgettable experience," explained Mile Milković, the secretary of the Croatian Walking Federation. The maps show in detail not only the terrain configuration and length but also all the key points and attractions that walkers will encounter along the way, thus turning every step into a small exploration.

The first day of the festival, Saturday, September 6th, bears the symbolic name "Tesla's Paths". All three routes on that day lead walkers through Smiljan, the birthplace of one of the world's greatest minds, Nikola Tesla. The highlight of the day is certainly passing through the "Nikola Tesla" Memorial Center, a multidisciplinary institution that uniquely combines science, art, and tourism. Participants will have the opportunity to step into the world of a genius, visit his restored birth house with a multimedia exhibition that testifies to his life and inventions, and experience a demonstration of the Tesla coil. This visit is not only educational but also deeply inspiring, providing insight into the environment from which the mind that changed the world forever originated. But the adventure does not stop there. A special attraction that adds a dose of excitement is the crossing of the Novčica river. The braver ones will be able to try crossing via a zip-line, while for those more inclined to a calmer experience, a raft crossing will be organized, providing a unique view of the river and the surrounding nature. Many participants are already looking for accommodation in Gospić to secure their place in the heart of Lika in time.

Steps through history and untouched nature

The second day of the festival, Sunday, September 7th, is dedicated to another monumental figure in Croatian history. Under the name "Starčević's Paths", the routes lead towards Veliki Žitnik, the native village of Dr. Ante Starčević, who is rightly called the Father of the Homeland. The main point of this day is a visit to the Dr. Ante Starčević Memorial Home, a modern multimedia center that preserves the memory of the life and work of this great man. Through the exhibition and documentary materials, walkers will be able to learn about his political struggle and the ideas that shaped the foundations of the modern Croatian state. In this way, the Croatian Walking Festival successfully fulfills its mission of connecting recreation and a healthy lifestyle with a deeper acquaintance with the national heritage, providing participants with a complete experience that enriches both body and spirit. The combination of untouched nature and the stories of the great men who came from these parts makes this festival much more than an ordinary sporting event; it is a journey through time and space.

The importance of the event has been recognized at both the local and regional levels, as it represents a strong incentive for the development of tourism in the Lika-Senj County. The festival revitalizes the entire region, fills accommodation capacities in Gospić and the surrounding area, encourages the work of restaurateurs, and promotes local producers and family farms. It is a perfect example of how sustainable tourism can be built around authentic experiences, attracting visitors who appreciate nature, culture, and active holidays. Every year, Lika breathes at full capacity during the festival, and the synergy between the organizers, the local community, and the participants creates a positive atmosphere that is remembered long after the walkers return to their homes. All those interested in participating in this unique event are invited to register as soon as possible. Official registrations are open until August 31st and are done exclusively through the Croatian Walking Festival website. Do not miss the opportunity to be part of this wonderful story and discover step by step why Lika is truly a destination that is felt with all the senses.