Island Hopping in the Ionian Sea: Exploring the Value of Monumental Olive Trees for Sustainable Tourism

Abstract

The monumental olive groves of the Ionian Islands constitute invaluable ecosystems with rich natural and cultural heritage, intertwined perennially with the region’s history. This research highlights the potential to contribute to the sustainable development and tourism of the Ionian Islands, by showcasing unique biodiversity and cultural traditions. Moreover, significant importance has the involvement of local communities in the promotion of sustainable development. The research integrates scientific research and practical applications, and proposes new prospects through the creation of innovative and sustainable initiatives, with immediate feedback to local communities. The proposals, challenges and applications are following the institutional framework and international practices for the preservation of natural and cultural wealth, particularly in NATURA 2000 areas. Design and digital mapping of ecotourism network trails have been conducted within the monumental olive groves of the Ionian Islands. These trails highlight the unique natural monuments that continue to produce olive oil of valuable nutrition. The visit to these natural open sculpture “eco-museums” offer the opportunity to interpret the unique dynamic of nature which connects the history, traditions, customs, and local communities and contributes to a sustainable rural tourism model. The interconnection of the trails of different islands in one holistic approach offers the possibility to enhance a common narrative which could be independent for each island or multiparametric for different islands. Island hopping promotes and interprets different characteristics of each island, in a common base, the monumental olive groves.