"Hiker-friendly" criteria

Hiking tourists are in close contact with the region in which they are and find it particularly important to feel that they are welcome and understood. This emotion is primarily created by visual information such as information stands, directional signs, appropriate information materials, thematic books and guidebooks. Hikers are expecting to find necessary products at local shops, as well as knowledgeable and helpful people who want to assist them. In many places where hikes are popular, there are signs or stickers which read “Hiker-Friendly”. This may be a part of a certification programme, and the signs are only received by venues which meet the relevant criteria. The signs may also be used by responsible tourism organisations, with businesses being free to choose whether or not they want to post the sign. In other cases, this can be the initiative of businesses as such. The “Hiker-Friendly” sticker or sign is an effective way of demonstrating that the target audience is welcome. The signs are well-known all over the world, and travellers who spot them clearly understand that their needs will be understood and that there will be someone who will be prepared to share valuable information. If a tourism product is to be successful, involved parties must have the same hospitality quality principles. The criteria can help tourism companies to orient themselves. General criteria are appropriate for any tourism service provider, while criteria for accommodations only apply to accommodations.

The “Hiker-Friendly” sign is available to any service providers for tourists in the Baltic States that want to be “friendly” toward hikers and to offer the relevant services to the target audience. The sign is not linked to any specific pathway or route. The “Hiker-Friendly” criteria are guidelines for tourism companies. Some of them are mandatory, while others are recommended. A company which wants to get the sign must satisfy at least 75% of the mandatory criteria.