On 22-23 January 2025 the European Association of the Via Francigena ways took part in the biannual meeting of the DETOUR project (Development of Resilient Tourism Ecosystems along Mediterranean Walking Routes) alongside international partners from four European countries.
The project, funded by the European Union through the COSME program, aims to promote resilient and innovative tourism ecosystems by supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) located along Mediterranean hiking routes, such as the Via Francigena, the Lycian Way in Turkey, the Sultan’s Trail in Bulgaria, and the mountain trails near Mount Olympus, Kissavos, and Mavrovouni in Greece.
The meeting in Turkey was opened by the Governor of Antalya, Ersin Yazıcı, who warmly welcomed the participants and highlighted the crucial importance of sustainable tourism for preserving the region’s cultural and natural heritage while fostering economic growth. Filippo Botti, Head of Administrative Services for the Municipality of Fidenza and leader of the project, followed with a speech emphasizing DETOUR’s role in supporting local development and ecological transition, key elements for a more responsible and innovative tourism model.
The DETOUR project, set to run over three years with a budget of €2 million, includes training for 32 tourism stakeholders and over 80 SMEs, and provision of grants of up to €25,000 for 32 innovative projects along the walking routes including the Via Francigena designed to transform tourism offerings.
During the Antalya meeting, participants worked on preparing a questionnaire for SMEs located along the project routes to analyze their current practices, challenges, and needs. The results of this survey will guide the development of training modules to equip businesses and stakeholders with advanced skills in sustainability, digitalization, and innovative practices. Additionally, info days were planned to raise awareness and engage local businesses.
The event also provided participants with the opportunity to explore the region through a hike along a section of the Lycian Way, a stunning trail along the country’s southern coast that stretches approximately 540 km from Fethiye to Antalya.
The next DETOUR meeting will be hosted by the European Association of the Via Francigena ways in Italy in autumn 2025.
