On Sunday, November 9th, Novi Vinodolski became a true centre of healthy living and outdoor recreation. The 1st Nordic Walking Festival Novi Vinodolski 2025 took place, an event that in its very first edition attracted a large number of walking enthusiasts and nature lovers.

The festival was jointly organized by KŠR Gorovo, the Sports Recreation Association “Sport for All” of the Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, and the Tourist Board of Novi Vinodolski, under the patronage of the Croatian Nordic Walking Association, the City of Novi Vinodolski, and the Croatian Olympic Committee.

The main gathering was held at Ivan Mažuranić Square, where the day began with the “Let’s Exercise Together” programme, featuring guided warm-up activities. The official opening ceremony followed, with greetings from Krešimir Ritz, President of the Croatian Nordic Walking Association, Ivona Tatalović from the Tourist Board, and Dalibor Korenić, Secretary of the Sports Recreation Association. All expressed delight at the turnout of nearly 800 participants from across Croatia and Slovenia.

After the ceremony, host Dražen Turina Šajeta, who also entertained the audience with his musical performance, led the walkers on an adventure through four scenic routes: the Coastal Route (4 km), Petar Krešimir IV Promenade Route (7 km), Wine Valley Route (9 km), and the Tourist Route, which included a guided tour of Novi Vinodolski’s old town. Each route was designed to showcase the region’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and winemaking tradition.

Upon returning, participants enjoyed a well-deserved lunch and a lively entertainment programme with DJ Dog and Šajeta, rounding off the event in a cheerful and relaxed atmosphere. Visitors praised the excellent organization, warm hospitality, and stunning views of Novi Vinodolski. Organizers concluded: “This is just the beginning of a wonderful tradition. We want Novi Vinodolski to become a recognized destination for Nordic walking and healthy living.”

With its vibrant spirit, great attendance, and rich programme, the 1st Nordic Walking Festival Novi Vinodolski 2025 confirmed that Kvarner now has another event that beautifully combines sport, recreation, and tourism.