Project duration: 12/2025 – 06/2027

Status: AWARDED

The Challenge

Nestled amidst the scenic heart of Hvar Island, the historic village of Vrisnik- named after the indigenous heather (vrijes) – shares the island’s rich architectural legacy, narrow stone lanes, and deep cultural roots, including centuries-old traditions such as the UNESCO-recognized Za križen procession.

Inspired by previous successful conservation efforts on Hvar – particularly the Revival of Historical Paths with Circular Technology and Tradition project, this new initiative aims to continue restoring another forgotten cultural corridor: the serpentine hiking route from Vrisnik to the hilltop Jelin Kuk.

For decades, this approximately 2 km trail, once a vital connection between the village and the surrounding hills, has remained unused and overgrown. Reviving it will reconnect Vrisnik with its natural surroundings, improve access to heritage landscapes, and promote a more balanced and sustainable form of tourism on Hvar.

The Solution

The project addresses the degradation of Hvar’s traditional landscapes caused by the abandonment and overgrowth of historic walking paths, such as the Vrisnik – Jelin Kuk route. Decades of neglect have led to habitat loss and reduced public access to nature, while rising motorized transport increases carbon emissions and environmental pressure on coastal areas.

By restoring and maintaining this heritage path, the project promotes low-impact mobility, reduces pollution, and supports biodiversity conservation – reconnecting the community with its natural environment and encouraging sustainable tourism that protects both cultural and ecological values of the island.

Project Deliverables

• Restore and reopen the historical Vrisnik – Jelin Kuk hiking route using environmentally sensitive methods
• Showcase and protect native Mediterranean flora along the path to strengthen biodiversity and ecological resilience
• Promote sustainable, low-impact tourism through hiking and walking experiences that reduce motorised transport and carbon emissions
• Engage the local community in practical conservation, cultural preservation, and educational activities
• Strengthen the connection between residents and their traditional landscape while contributing to the island’s circular and regenerative development model

Insight into the Organisation

Moj Škoj NGO, established in 2021, emerged as an extension of prior community workshops and cleaning initiatives on Hvar. Recognizing the potential for broader impact, the NGO was formed to address sustainability challenges island-wide. By actively collaborating with local stakeholders, including municipalities, schools, and kindergartens, Moj Škoj strives to implement practical solutions for a more sustainable way of life. Their inaugural project, “Bio Balls,” engaged 700 children from across the island in producing 15,000 clay-based balls to clean pollution from the sea. Subsequent initiatives include “True Blue,” a partnership aimed at repurposing plastic waste for souvenir and urban equipment production, and “Mlodi za For,” a participatory budgeting project for Hvar’s youth. With a commitment to tangible problem-solving, Moj Škoj continues to drive positive change in their community.

Connected by Tradition: Extending Hvar’s Historic Paths is supported by DIEF – Dalmatian Islands Environment Foundation, thanks to funding received from Conservation Collective through their partnership with Inntravel.