European tourism Gardens of Eden no 19

Prizewinning community tourism: Lakeland Estonia and Czech Republic, Moravian Highlands, coastal Cyprus, Croatia’s Nin

Lake Võrtsjärv

Located in southern Estonia, this EDEN award winning destination ‘Lake Võrtsjärv’ is the second largest lake in the Baltic States. The lake is not only a natural habitat but also a home, an employer, a rest area, a research object, a history keeper and a water craft carrier. Lake Võrtsjärv has a great recreational value as well as a considerable fishery and navigational importance. The beauty of Võrtsjärv and its surrounding nature has, throughout the ages, attracted visitors and has been offering possibilities for activity holidays and for spending free time.

According to a legend, in the old times there was a sacred lake – Emujärv. Oak and maple forests on the shores were full of fairies and pixies, witches and wizards. Ancestral traditions are therefore an important part of the cultural life of the local people in the Võrtsjärv area.

The Võrtsjärv lake with its abundant fish resources has throughout centuries been the means of subsistence for locals. Centuries have affected the natural environment near the lake and left their trace in the culture and history of the region. It is home to ancient fishing villages, and has a historical fishing vessel endemic to the region – the kalepurjekas. The lake, which is rich in eel, carp bream and pike-perch, also features Estonia’s only freshwater fish museum.

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Bystřicko (the Czech Republic)

Bystřicko is part of the Vysočina Region and is comprised of 34 member towns and villages with 20,163 inhabitants. It is located in the north-eastern tip of the Czech Moravian Highlands, known for their exceptional rough beauty, their abundance of rivers, creeks and dams, and unique flora and fauna.

The region belongs to the drainage basin of the Black Sea, and the entire region is drained by the river Svratka with its tributaries. Whilst exploring these rivers by foot or boat, you will find many preserved castle ruins. Further, the dominant water feature of the BystÅ™icko Region is the Vír dam which has the third-highest dam wall in the Czech Republic reaching a staggering 76.5m.

It is the perfect destination for an unforgettable holiday, especially for those looking to combine peaceful rivers and lakes with something more active. Rowing, swimming, fishing and other water-related activities will ensure good mood and a positive experience from your holiday. The BystÅ™icko micro-region is unique because of its location within the Svratecká Uplands natural park which is rich in natural heritage.

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Kato Pyrgos (Cyprus)

Coast of Kato PyrgosKato Pyrgos is a small village of almost 1500 people in the Tylliria area in West Cyprus. It is a place rich in history and heritage, lying on the roots of the Troodos Mountain range with a stunning view of the sea. Kato Pyrgos is one of the few villages left in Cyprus where the natural environment remains virtually untouched and maintains its natural beauty. The beaches in Kato Pyrgos are famous for their cool and lucid waters, ideal for the hot summer months. The beaches are some of the cleanest on the island and if you are lucky you might spot a school of dolphins playing far out in the sea.

It is an ideal spot for fresh water fishing and hiking. The Community of Kato Pyrgos offers a unique and rare sea, mountain and fresh water combination which everyone can enjoy. Rich in history and culture,

Kato Pyrgos hosts many monuments, chapels and churches. Findings from the 14th century and tombs of the Hellinistic and Roman period were localized in an area next to the village. Moreover, visitors can go and see the Chapel of Virgin Mary “Galoktisti”, built using milk instead of water, around the 12th and 14th century.

Life seems to stop in the village of Kato Pyrgos, when strolling through narrow streets, admiring centuries old architecture, buying fresh fragrant figs and peaches, while inhaling the see air and enjoying the Mediterranean sun, it is a truly unique location. The locals enjoying telling the visitors about the legends of the area and encourage them to participate in the local activities.

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Nin (Croatia)

Nin is located in a shallow lagoon about 14 km away from the regional centre Zadar, on the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea. It is the oldest Croatian royal town as it was the first metropolis of Croatian kings from the 9th century. It is located on a small island, which is connected to the mainland by two stone bridges from the 16th century.

The well-tended paths and natural sandy beaches are a favourite place for families with small children, and out of season they are a great place for taking long walks in the natural surroundings. It is also idea for people looking for stories of history and culture. Here, you can find famous old Croatian churches built between the 9th and 12th centuries, which are unique in Croatia and the wider Mediterranean area. Visitors to the old town centre can approach the island via one of the two ancient bridges built in the 16th century or through the preserved lower city gate (16-18th centuries) and start to explore the town walls and many valuable monuments.

A unique part of the natural heritage is the healing mud (peloid) and weather conditions produced by the area. The medical centre in Zadar has been using the healing mud for 40 years in the treatment of various diseases, rheumatic illnesses, spine problems and a variety of skin diseases. During summer, the mistral blows and reduces the summer heat. As a result, Nin is an oasis for tourism and offers ideal conditions for rest and recreation.

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Valere Tjolle
Valere is editor of the Sustainable Tourism Report Suite 2011 Special Offers HERE

See also:

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• NO 11http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1148546.php

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• NO 9http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1148389.php
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N0 8 http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1148290.php
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NO 7http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1148189.php

• NO 6http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1147978.php

• NO 5 http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1147875.php

• NO 4 http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1147779.php

• NO 3http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1147673.php
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NO 2 http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1147583.php
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NO 1http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1147467.php