6th Croatian Walking Festival: Otočac – Gospić
The Croatian Walking Festival has become one of the most important sports-recreational events in the country, attracting participants from various parts of Croatia, but also from abroad. This festival, which is being held for the sixth time, offers a unique opportunity for nature lovers and those who enjoy a healthy lifestyle to experience the beauties of Lika, learn about cultural and historical landmarks, and spend time outdoors in the company of like-minded individuals.

The Lika region, with its untouched natural landscapes, mountains, rivers, and lakes, is the perfect place for such an event. Combined with rich historical and cultural heritage, participants are offered an unforgettable experience that includes physical activity, education, and socializing. Every year, the festival gathers an increasing number of participants, and this year a record number of registrations is expected.
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The festival organizers have made a special effort to design routes that will allow participants to explore the hidden beauties of Lika, as well as to familiarize themselves with local customs and traditions. The routes are adapted for all ages and levels of physical fitness, making the festival accessible to everyone - from professional athletes to families with children.

One of the main features of the festival is the emphasis on participant safety. All routes are carefully planned and marked, and at every rest stop, there are volunteers and medical staff ready to provide assistance if needed. In addition, the organizers have introduced additional safety measures due to the increased number of participants, which includes increased presence of guides and emergency services.

It is interesting to note that the walking festival takes place in two towns - Otočac and Gospić. Otočac, as the heart of the Gacka Valley, offers routes through gentle areas with rich vegetation and crystal-clear springs, while Gospić, the birthplace of Nikola Tesla, allows participants to walk paths that follow the life and work of this great inventor. In this way, the festival, in addition to physical activity, also provides an educational component, connecting participants with the historical and cultural heritage of Lika.

The festival is not only an opportunity for walking and enjoying nature, but also for participating in various accompanying activities. Thus, at rest stops along the routes, presentations of local gastronomy, workshops of traditional crafts, and cultural-artistic programs are organized, allowing participants to experience Lika in its most authentic form.

It is important to note that the walking festival is designed as a sustainable event that promotes ecological awareness and a responsible attitude towards nature. The organizers have ensured that all participants receive instructions on proper behavior during the walk, with special emphasis on environmental preservation. Waste bins are placed along all routes, and participants are encouraged to reduce the use of plastic and use environmentally friendly materials.

The Croatian Walking Festival in Otočac and Gospić would not be possible without the great involvement of the local community, volunteers, and sponsors. Their support is crucial to the success of this event, and every year the number of those who want to be part of this project grows. The festival has become a symbol of unity and cooperation and is for many an opportunity to promote local values and resources.
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For those who have not yet experienced the charm of walking through the beautiful landscapes of Lika, this festival offers the perfect opportunity. Whether you are an experienced walker or a beginner, the routes prepared for this year's festival will surely delight you. Join thousands of other participants and become part of this beautiful story of nature, health, and togetherness.

The festival program is diverse and includes a range of activities that will satisfy all participants, regardless of their physical fitness or interests. Below is a detailed program of events.

6th Croatian Walking Festival Program
30.8.2024.
Gospić
18:00-20:00 - Registration at Stjepan Radić Square

Otočac
18:00-20:00 - Registration in the City Park

31.8.2024.
Otočac
6:30-11:00 - Registration in the City Park
7:00 - Start of the Gacka 30+ route
8:00 - Start of the Gacka 20+ route
11:00 - Start of the Gacka 10+ route
7:30-10:00 - First rest stop for the Gacka 30+ and Gacka 20+ routes
9:00-11:00 - Second rest stop for the Gacka 30+ route
10:30-12:00 - Third rest stop for the Gacka 30+ route
10:00-13:00 - Fourth rest stop for the Gacka 30+ and Gacka 20+ routes
10:00-15:00 - Fifth rest stop for the Gacka 30+, 20+, and 10+ routes
13:00-14:00 - Expected arrival of the Gacka 10+ route
12:00-15:00 - Expected arrival of the Gacka 20+ route
14:00-16:00 - Expected arrival of the Gacka 30+ route
12:00-17:00 - Award distribution (awards will be given at the registration place in the City Park)
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1.9.2024
Gospić
6:30-11:00 - Registration at Stjepan Radić Square
7:00 - Start of the Tesla 30+ route
8:00 - Start of the Tesla 20 route
11:00 - Start of the Tesla 10+ route
8:00-10:00 - First rest stop for the Tesla 30+ and 20+ routes
10:00-11:30 - Second rest stop for the Tesla 30+ route
9:00-12:00 - Third stop for the Tesla 30+ and 20+ routes*
11:00-13:00 - Fourth rest stop for the Tesla 30+, 20+, and 10+ routes
11:00-15:00 - Fifth rest stop for the Tesla 30+, 20+, and 10+ routes (raft free of charge, zip line extra charge)
12:30-15:30 - Stop for the Tesla 30+, 20+, and 10+ routes
13:00-14:00 - Expected arrival of the Tesla 10+ route
13:30-15:00 - Expected arrival of the Tesla 20+ route
14:00-16:00 - Expected arrival of the Tesla 30+ route
13:00-16:00 - Award distribution (awards will be given at the registration place, Stjepan Radić Square)
15:30 - Closing of the 6th Croatian Walking Festival

*Note: The Nikola Tesla Memorial Center requires a valid accreditation for entry, which does not include access to the museum. All routes are guided, and the last guide (so-called broom) departs approximately 1:15-1:30 after the last group and closes all rest stops.

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