*By Kostas Chalkiadakis
The Region of Central Macedonia is launching a new tool to showcase the natural beauty of Kilkis and boost hiking tourism, combining the traditional printed map with the capabilities of digital technology.
The Regional Unit of Kilkis is currently preparing and producing a new hiking map, as well as developing a digital application to promote the region’s hiking routes. The relevant award decision was issued by the Tourism Directorate of the Region of Central Macedonia.
The contract has been awarded to Anavasi Publications for a total of 4,005 euros, including VAT, following a call for expressions of interest in which two bids were submitted.
From the printed map to the visitor’s mobile phone
The main focus is on the scope of the design. The plan is to create a digital hiking map covering the entire Kilkis Regional Unit and to integrate the hiking routes into a digital application.
At the same time, existing routes and associated GPX files will be updated over a two-year period, whilst up to three new hiking routes are planned to be added. The application will remain operational and hosted for at least two years.
The digital component is complemented by the production of 2,000 copies of a printed hiking map, whilst the project includes editable GPX files, texts and photographic material provided by the associations. The models will be designed in collaboration with the Tourism Office of the Kilkis Prefectural Government.
Focus on rural tourism
The initiative aims to organise, on a unified basis, a tourism product that is becoming increasingly important for destinations in mainland Greece. Hiking can serve as a means of showcasing lesser-known areas and of connecting visitors with the natural landscape and the hinterland.
In the case of Kilkis, the digital recording of routes and the availability of GPX files together provide a more modern information framework for travellers who organise their own activities.
The project is expected to be completed within 40 days of the contract award date.
With the new printed and digital map, Kilkis is essentially seeking to transform its hiking trails from a scattered nature reserve into an organised and more easily accessible tourist attraction, bringing the hinterland more into the travel spotlight.
Source: tornosnews.gr