The Kvarner Gulf region has been recommended for the prestigious European Region of Gastronomy 2026 title. An international jury, comprising four esteemed experts accompanied by IGCAT’s President, Dr. Diane Dodd, meticulously evaluated the application submitted by Kvarner Gulf on 5 December 2023, titled “Diversity is Beautiful.” From 13th to 17 May 2024, the jury visited the region, aiming to assess its suitability and readiness to host the coveted title in 2026. This immersive experience will culminate in a comprehensive report, offering recommendations for the region’s gastronomic journey.
During their visit, the jury engaged with over 72 stakeholders across the region’s mountains, coastline, and islands. These included local authorities, tourism directors, heritage experts, academics, business representatives, educators, and entities dedicated to developing and protecting Kvarner as a gastronomic destination. The jury was delighted to interact with such diverse stakeholders from the public, private, third sector, and academic institutions, applauding the collective efforts from various sectors in developing strategies and plans for the region.
Why Kvarner deserves to be the European Region of Gastronomy 2026
The jury was deeply impressed by how the vision for Kvarner as the European Region of Gastronomy 2026 has been inspired and reinforced by the Action Plan for the Development of Gastronomy in the Kvarner region. This plan places particular emphasis on hospitality and responsible destination management. The exceptional work of the Kvarner Regional Tourism Authority and the Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality Management has been instrumental in this regard, providing a roadmap for how multiple sectors can collaborate to ensure a sustainable food future for Kvarner and contribute to an outstanding European Region of Gastronomy.
The jury commended the Kvarner Tourism Board’s efforts in engaging accommodation providers, food and wine producers, heritage managers, citizens, and educators across the region. They witnessed an emerging interest in preserving the well-being of residents, landscapes, food, and culture and are confident that Kvarner will achieve this goal if all sectors commit to the Action Plan for the Development of Gastronomy.
While the region boasts rich and beautiful diversity, there is also an emerging common theme revolving around health, well-being, vitality, and the importance of local food, medicinal herbs, honey, and pure water. These elements were evident throughout the visit, particularly during the impressive guided tour of Opatija’s Park Angiolina – Botanical Garden, the visit to the Collection Olive Grove on the Trail of Centuries Old Olive Groves on the island of Cres, the Agricultural Cooperative Cres, the House of Nature “Kotač,” and Lošinj’s Fragrant Garden, as well as through the vital activities of the Association of Beekeepers.
The jury was impressed by the investment, creativity, and innovation in heritage interpretation and commended the efforts to connect these experiences with food in intriguing ways, as witnessed at the Apoxyomenos Museum (Lošinj), Nerezinac Lugger Sailing Interpretation Centre, Frankopan Interpretation Centre at Nova Kraljevica Castle (Kraljevica), and the Rijeka City Museum – Sugar Refinery Palace (Rijeka). The professionalism and knowledge of all the official guides who shared their immense love for the region were truly appreciated.
INDIGENOUS RICHES
One of the region’s most substantial assets is the quantity and quality of indigenous plants, including grapes, olives, and herbs, particularly the exclusive grape varieties that produce exceptionally high-quality wines. The Association of Wineries and Winemakers operates under the consensus that wineries can support their local communities more by ensuring their wine is exclusive for locals and visitors.
HOSPITALITY EXCELLENCE
The jury noted the significant role played by the hospitality sector and the potential impact of the Kvarner Quality Labels in helping visitors identify local products. They expect more restaurants, wineries, accommodation providers, and events across the region to be recognised for their quality and commitment to local food in the future. Kvarner’s new labels will ensure that good food across the range is available for everyone.
RECOMMENDATION
The jury agreed that Kvarner’s exceptional food and hospitality, culture, and harmony of culture, heritage, and well-being make its application extremely strong. Therefore, based on the written application and a visit to the region, the jury decided that the Kvarner region should be recommended for the European Region of Gastronomy 2026 title.
The jury will submit their recommendations to the region in the coming weeks, and IGCAT will approve them at the next IGCAT Advisory Forum, scheduled for 26 June 2024. The jury eagerly anticipates the preparations for the region’s Award Ceremony this year, which will be an opportunity to share Kvarner’s food treasures with the world.
