Professional paper
Natural heritage of the island of Mljet – the basis of the development of the medical tourism
Marija Nodilo
orcid.org/0009-0002-0394-5264
; Goveđari
Abstract
The island of Mljet is well known for its natural heritage: two salt lakes, forests of Holm oak and Aleppo pine, blatina (brachish water), cliff coasts, sandy coves, caves, richness of underwater life, natural harbours, springs of drinkable water, endemic and medical plants. As a result of awareness of need to protect this amazing natural environment, forests and vegetation are preserved: The one third of the island Mljet was pronounced a national park in the year 1960 to make conditions for systematic nature protection.There are many reasons to encourage health tourism on Mljet: mild Mediterranean climate with green vegetation and possibility for hiking, recreation and sightseeing throughtout the year. Environmental pollution is non existing and for that reason as well, the conditions for rehabilitation in this natural ambience is perfect. To make a progress for inhabitants and guests with this kind of tourism, there should be also infrastructure beside these favourable natural conditions.
Until now has been no official medical tourism on Mljet, although long walks and enjoying in natural beauty of Mljet have always been known for their positive impact on health. Mljet is an island so rich with natural beauty is best place there is for health tourism. It can be explored through leisure mountaineering across the hilltops, walks around the lakes, swimming in sea during summertime as well as looking at intact nature from a boat. As well as great natural heritage, one also has to mention cultural heritage: ruin of an old roman palace (4th or 5th century AD), Benedictine monastery (12th century AD) as well as monastery from the time of Republic of Dubrovnik.
Above all, Mljet is one of rare places on Earth where pollution is non-existent as there is not one factory anywhere nearby. For all of these reasons, Mljet can be visited during any season of the year.
Keywords
island Mljet; natural heritage; health tourism
Hrčak ID:
86974
URI
Publication date:
31.8.2012.
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