The Cinque Terre National Park, located on the Gulf of Genoa in northwestern Italy, is introducing draconian fines for those who go on hiking trails in unsuitable footwear. The park administration took such measures due to the increase in the number of accidents caused by the carelessness of tourists walking along the steep paths above the sea in sandals and flip-flops.
According to Italia in Russian, last year 450 thousand cruise ship passengers arrived in the city of La Spezia, closest to the park, and 750 thousand guests are expected next summer, which will double the number of excursions in the Cinque Terre park.
The park's director, Patrizio Scarpellini, points out that the 120 kilometres of Cinque Terre hiking trails are not for "carefree strolls overlooking the gulf" but are trekking routes, and as with mountain trails, hikers must follow certain rules: wear the right footwear (hiking boots or sneakers) and remember to bring drinking water.
Fines for careless park visitors will range from 50 to 2,500 euros. The park is launching an information campaign to prevent accidents.
The Cinque Terre National Park has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997.
Source: travel.ru
