Danube GeoTour Plus - Boosting opportunities for more inclusive, valuable and balanced Geopark Communities

Programme 2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-B Danube

Date of latest update: 2025-12-17

Description

Description (EN):

Danube GeoTour Plus builds on established collaboration of 9 geopark partners of diverse institutional background, 2 research and education partners and 18 ASPs. Results of the previous project indicate new trends that embrace the geoparks’ future and still untapped heritage potential. Depopulation of rural areas, marginalisation of certain resident groups, signs of increased tourism demand on hidden heritage gems, and on the other side, competence, management, product and visitor infrastructure gaps raise the key CHALLENGES in front of the Danube geoparks. Their rural territories encompass 416 municipalities in 9 countries over a surface of 14,601 km 2. During the last decade, geoparks have lost 6% of the population and increased visits by 77%, from 317 000 to 562 000. The project thus AIMS to capitalise and further exploit the recently developed common Danube GeoTour tourism product, its vast heritage potential and existing geopark territorial development model so as to enhance the sustainable tourism opportunities of remote rural communities and to become more inclusive and appreciated by residents and visitors, making their products more valuable and natural and cultural assets managed in a more balanced and sustainable manner. To achieve this, the UNESCO geopark territorial development APPROACH will be upgraded with inclusive, innovative and tailor-made solutions in product value design and visitor management, jointly tested and applied in participating geoparks. This shall result in the following: - ENGAGEMENT of vulnerable groups into geopark structures, products and services further to a common engagement strategy and 9 action plans, motivated by new opportunities offered by geoparks and cross-border peer exchanges; - VALUE GENERATION for local SMEs and raising employment opportunities for vulnerable groups by piloting 9 GeoExperiences as a new participative product development model and functional part of a top-end segment of the Danube GeoTour product and its future cooperation platform; - BALANCED VISITOR MANAGEMENT based on developed and verified common visitor monitoring solutions for routes, hot spots and larger territories, joint analytical tools and initial visitor redistribution measures. Intense transnational cooperation in these, for Danube geoparks and similar territories important change processes, will significantly improve competences of all 29 participating organisations coming from 8 member and 3 non-member states, in the field of inclusive integrated territorial development, product (experience) innovation management and smart visitor monitoring. Danube GeoTour Plus is thus not just another transnational tourism product but it is a path into a collaborative platform that will, after the project closure, assure future sustainability of the Danube GeoTour product and enable permanent networking of the Danube geoparks for common, more sustainable and inclusive territorial goals. Total budget: 2.288.015,00 EUR

Actual Achievements (EN):

The Danube GeoTour Plus project is a transnational effort to promote sustainable tourism and inclusivity across geoparks in the Danube region. Through close cooperation between 9 geoparks, research institutions, and local partners, the project addresses key challenges such as community engagement, unique geopark experiences and a balanced visitor management. The collaboration enhances the local economy, fosters inclusion, and contributes to sustainable development goals. Key Achievements and Partner Contributions 1. Engaging Vulnerable Groups A significant milestone was the completion of the Joint Strategy for Engaging Vulnerable Groups in June 2024. This strategy, developed by Hateg Geopark (Romania) with support from Idrija Geopark (Slovenia) and Geopark Karawanken (Austria/Slovenia), ensures that disadvantaged communities such as ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, and youth at risk are actively involved in geopark activities. CTMK (Bosnia and Herzegovina) contributed expertise on engaging vulnerable groups by sharing research findings and a published paper. Their input helped refine the approach to inclusion, ensuring that strategies were evidence-based and effective. University of Bucharest (Romania) organized workshops to build capacity around vulnerable group engagement, while Papuk Geopark (Croatia) facilitated rural women’s involvement through cultural heritage projects. Djerdap Geopark (Serbia) and Swabian Alb Geopark (Germany) led initiatives to include youth and people with disabilities in decision-making processes. 2. Developing the GeoExperience Model The GeoExperience Model, currently in draft form, is designed to create unique and sustainable visitor experiences, integrating cultural and natural heritage with modern digital tools. Technical University of Košice (TUKE, Slovakia) provided critical expertise in developing visitor management systems, including digital visitor counting solutions. Styrian Eisenwurzen (Austria) contributed by sharing best practices from previous geopark projects, while Vodní Zdroje Chrudim (Czech Republic) offered insights on designing new geo-tourism products tailored to local communities. The development of this model was a joint effort, with each partner contributing knowledge and current practices from their regions. Through surveys, meetings, and workshops, the geoparks collaborated to gather insights that would ensure the model’s success in enhancing visitor experiences and preserving natural resources. 3. Visitor Management and Monitoring Solutions The survey reports conducted by each geopark provided valuable feedback from visitors, locals, and stakeholders, helping to shape better visitor management strategies. Though some partners faced challenges reaching the survey targets, the data collected informed the development of sustainable visitor flows and engagement strategies. Swabian Alb Geopark and Geopark Karawanken played leading roles in testing and implementing sustainable visitor management tools, while TUKE developed a structured digital solution for monitoring visitor numbers, which is being piloted in several geoparks. GIM (Czech Republic) played a key role in ensuring that these solutions met the qualitative aspects of the project, aligning with the broader goals of sustainability and inclusion. 4. Communication Strategy and Project Coordination A comprehensive communication strategy was developed, ensuring that all project partners were actively engaged and informed throughout the process. NGSE (Austria) led the development of this strategy, with input from all partners, to ensure that each geopark could effectively communicate its progress and share updates on a project level. NGSE also coordinated the participation of all partners, ensuring that the project met its goals and timelines, while facilitating knowledge sharing through regular updates and joint meetings. The collaborative nature of this project has been key, with each Strategic Objective (SO) developed collectively. Best practices, knowledge, and ongoing efforts were gathered through surveys, workshops, and monthly online meetings. NGSE ensured every partner was actively participating, and the shared drive and Notion platform helped streamline communication and project management. The communication strategy, which serves as the foundation for inclusive outreach and engagement across all geoparks. The success of the Danube GeoTour Plus project lies in the strong cooperation between all partners. This collaboration has allowed for the sharing of best practices, innovative tools, and regional knowledge, enabling the development of sustainable tourism solutions that not only benefit local communities but also contribute to long-term economic and social growth across the Danube region. One of the most significant accomplishments has been the development of a Joint Strategy for Engaging Vulnerable Groups, completed in June 2024. This strategy was led by Hateg Geopark (Romania), in collaboration with all 9 geoparks and 2 universities who shared their experties and outlines how ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, rural women, low income people and youth at risk can be more actively involved in geopark activities. The strategy was informed by research conducted by CTMK (Bosnia and Herzegovina), who provided a scientific paper and field data on effective inclusion practices. To ensure partners could apply the strategy, the University of Bucharest (Romania) organized hands-on workshops across the region. Papuk Geopark (Croatia) involved rural women in cultural heritage initiatives, while Djerdap (Serbia) and Swabian Alb (Germany) implemented participatory programs to include youth and people with disabilities in local decision-making. Building on this strategic work, each of the nine geoparks developed tailored Action Plans during Period 2. These were designed through a collaborative process with local stakeholders—NGOs, schools, and local authorities—and guided by a common methodology. Each plan includes specific actions, timelines, responsible actors, and measurable outcomes. The plans focus on needs assessments, accessibility improvements, social cohesion initiatives, and opportunities for economic participation through geotourism. The process was supported by a logical framework and a set of monitoring tools, and was coordinated by the University of Bucharest (PP4) to ensure consistency and alignment with the Joint Strategy. A key milestone in this phase was a transnational meeting in Kladovo, Serbia, which brought together all partners to share progress, challenges, and good practices. In parallel, partners have worked on the GeoExperience Model, a tool to help geoparks design unique and meaningful visitor experiences that integrate natural heritage, cultural identity, and digital technologies. The model is based on local knowledge and practices, enriched through a collaborative development process involving surveys, expert input, and joint workshops. TUKE (Slovakia) played a key role in developing digital visitor flow and monitoring tools to support the model. Styrian Eisenwurzen (Austria) contributed experience from earlier tourism innovation projects, while Vodní Zdroje Chrudim (Czech Republic) led the design of new geo-tourism products adapted to local communities. A major creativity workshop took place in Djerdap (Serbia) in November 2024, helping finalize the draft model. Although final alignment with the European Geoparks Network (EGN) is still ongoing, the model is expected to be completed in the next reporting period. The process has also inspired the idea of holding dedicated workshops for each Strategic Objective (SO), ensuring deep partner engagement. Another core area of progress is visitor management and monitoring, which is crucial for sustainable tourism. All geoparks conducted surveys to gather feedback from visitors, residents, and stakeholders. These insights informed local visitor strategies, although some partners faced challenges reaching survey targets. TUKE developed a structured digital system to track visitor numbers, peak times, and accessibility, which is now being piloted in several geoparks. Swabian Alb and Karawanken geoparks tested practical tools to manage visitor flows, such as seasonal routing and information systems. GIM (Czech Republic) helped ensure the tools reflect both qualitative and inclusion-focused goals. Additionally, two project partners are engaged in a parallel EU visitor monitoring project and will share insights during an upcoming exchange meeting with the lead partner. Strong coordination and communication have underpinned all achievements. NGSE (Austria) led the development of a comprehensive communication strategy, ensuring that all partners were informed, aligned, and able to contribute meaningfully throughout the project. The use of a shared Notion platform, coordinated monthly meetings, and collaborative documents streamlined project management and transparency. Regular updates, shared templates, and structured reporting helped partners stay on track. NGSE also coordinated the participation of all partners in strategic decision-making and facilitated the sharing of good practices through online and in-person events. Finally, the project also made an important contribution to the wider European Geopark community. During the EGN event in Keflavik, Iceland (October 2024), the Danube GeoTour Plus team led a workshop on community involvement, visitor monitoring, and geopark experience development. This session led to the formation of a new Community Involvement Working Group within the EGN, extending the impact of the project beyond its core partnership. Across the first three periods (2023–mid 2025), the project has advanced steadily from strategy development to practical implementation. Period 1: Strategic Foundations The project began by establishing its core frameworks and tools. Each geopark conducted stakeholder consultations and baseline surveys to assess local needs, challenges, and opportunities related to vulnerable groups, geotourism development, and visitor pressures. One of the most important outputs was the Joint Strategy for Engaging Vulnerable Groups, finalized in June 2024. Led by Hațeg Geopark (RO), with contributions from Idrija (SI), Karawanken (AT/SI), and CTMK (BiH), this strategy outlined how groups such as ethnic minorities, rural women, youth at risk, and people with disabilities could be more actively included in geopark activities. The strategy was evidence-based, supported by CTMK’s field research and policy recommendations. The University of Bucharest coordinated capacity-building workshops across the region to help partners implement the approach. In parallel, development began on the GeoExperience Model, a shared framework for creating unique, sustainable visitor offers. A major workshop in Djerdap (RS) in November 2024, supported by TUKE (SK) and other partners, focused on integrating cultural identity, digital tools, and local narratives into the model. Visitor monitoring strategies were also initiated in this period, with TUKE beginning work on a digital monitoring concept tailored to different geopark settings. Period 2: Action Planning and Peer Exchange In Period 2, each geopark translated the joint strategies into localised Engagement Action Plans, developed with NGOs, schools, and local stakeholders. These plans defined concrete actions to reach vulnerable groups and integrate them into local geotourism and heritage initiatives. The partnership also delivered two transnational thematic and capitalisation events: one on ENGAGEMENT and one on GeoExperience Development. These gatherings allowed all partners to share knowledge, test new approaches, and refine their methods. Meanwhile, the GeoExperience Model progressed through shared surveys, testing criteria, and co-creation workshops. Partners aligned the model with quality, inclusion, and sustainability goals, while TUKE and GIM (CZ) began designing supporting tools and templates. Visitor monitoring efforts advanced through conceptual work and the selection of pilot cases for three different territorial types: open routes, heritage hot spots, and open-access landscapes. Procurement and testing began in selected geoparks. Period 3: Practical Implementation and Piloting By early 2025, the project shifted to hands-on delivery. Engagement campaigns were launched (A1.4) across all geoparks, tailored to local contexts. These included storytelling sessions, intergenerational walks, exhibitions, creative workshops, and informal heritage events, focusing on rural women, seniors, youth, and others. First partner exchanges between vulnerable groups (A1.5) were initiated—e.g., Karawanke visiting Papuk in May 2025. The First Year Review Meeting (March 2025, Austria) marked a project turning point. It featured three dedicated workshops for SO1–SO3, joint planning sessions, and a shared calendar for key deliverables and meetings. GeoExperience pilot actions (A2.3) were launched and monitored during the February 2025 in-person meeting in Styrian Eisenwurzen. Partners tested and shared new experience formats involving local providers and community actors. Simultaneously, capacity-building events (A2.4) enabled vulnerable residents to take part in product development and delivery, including walks, co-design sessions, and training workshops. The joint Danube GeoExperience Story (A2.5) was drafted and refined with partner contributions, laying the groundwork for a future cross-geopark marketing campaign. Discussions began with external experts to support final positioning. Visitor monitoring pilots entered active implementation (A3.3). Karawanke completed sensor installation along open routes. Iron Mountains launched three functioning counters for open territories. BÜKK prepared for implementation in autumn 2025. Other geoparks (Hațeg, Eisenwurzen, Swabian Alb, Idrija) progressed in procurement or early deployment. TUKE continued development of the Common Analytical Tool (A3.5), integrating real data needs and feedback from pilot sites. A transnational event on visitor management (A3.4) was postponed to October 2025 to better align with pilot readiness.

Project outputs: Common Strategy for engagement of vulnerable and disadvantaged groups in Danube geoparks
(EN)
Action plans for engagement of vulnerable and disadvantaged groups in Danube geoparks(EN)
GeoExperience pilot actions jointly developed and implemented(EN)
Geopark Experience model developed(EN)
Danube GeoTour future cooperation platform(EN)
Visitor monitoring systems with initial sustainable visitor management measures for routes, hot spots and larger territories jointly developed and implemented in participating geoparks(EN)
Sound, efficient, inclusive and sustainable visitor monitoring SOLUTION for routes, single hot spots and larger territories with free access jointly developed(EN)

Thematic information

Cultural heritage and arts Tourism Social inclusion and equal opportunities

Priority: (VI-B_D_3) Priority 3 - A more social Danube Region

Priority specific objective: RSO4.6. Enhancing the role of culture and sustainable tourism in economic development, social inclusion and social innovation

Priority policy objective (Interreg specific objective): PO4 A more social and inclusive Europe implementing the European Pillar of Social Rights

Type of intervention: 154 Measures to improve access of marginalised groups such as the Roma to education, employment and to promote their social inclusion

Partners (11)

Lead Partner: Natur- und Geopark Steirische Eisenwurzen GmbH

Partner’s ID if not PIC: ATU74095819

Address: Markt, 8933 St. Gallen, Austria

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Other

Website: https://www.eisenwurzen.com/

Total budget: EUR 398 500.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 318 800.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 79 700.00

Contractors:

Name: WEGES
VAT registration or tax identification number: UID ATU71682413
Name: Günther Pichler GmbH
VAT registration or tax identification number: UID ATU 413 25703
Name: Schreibeis
VAT registration or tax identification number: UID ATU820 51501
Name: MostMedia
VAT registration or tax identification number: UID ATU69965326
Name: Tramberger
VAT registration or tax identification number: UID ATU 66887336
Name: Steiner
VAT registration or tax identification number: UID ATEOS1000001616
Name: Buchhaltungsagentur des Bundes
VAT registration or tax identification number: UID ATU57953646
Name: Gunilla Plank
VAT registration or tax identification number: no VAT
Name: suske consulting
VAT registration or tax identification number: ATU 61265712

Visoka škola za turizam i menadžment Konjic

Name: Visoka škola za turizam i menadžment Konjic

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 4227769160000

Address: Varda, 88400 Konjic, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Legal status: private

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: https://vstim-konjic.ba

Total budget: EUR 80 400.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 64 320.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 16 080.00

Technická univerzita v Košiciach

Name: Technická univerzita v Košiciach

Department: Faculty of Economics in cooperation with Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Informatics

Partner’s ID if not PIC: SK2020486710

Address: Letna, 04200 Košice, Slovakia

Department address: Letna, 04200 Košice, Slovakia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: http://www.tuke.sk

Total budget: EUR 149 200.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 119 360.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 29 840.00

Bükki Nemzeti Park Igazgatóság

Name: Bükki Nemzeti Park Igazgatóság

Partner’s ID if not PIC: HU15323864

Address: Sánc u. , 3304 Eger, Hungary

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Other

Website: https://www.bnpi.hu

Total budget: EUR 146 820.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 117 456.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 29 364.00

Jovno preduzeće Nacionalni park Đerdap

Name: Jovno preduzeće Nacionalni park Đerdap

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 100624453

Address: Kralja Petra I, 19220 Donji Milanovac, Serbia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Other

Website: https://npdjerdap.rs/

Total budget: EUR 139 230.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 111 384.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 27 846.00

Contractors:

Name: TOC
VAT registration or tax identification number: 104345581
Name: HTP "Plaza" doo Beograd
VAT registration or tax identification number: 104736763
Name: Association Manifesto
VAT registration or tax identification number: 23456

Geopark Schwäbische Alb e.V.

Name: Geopark Schwäbische Alb e.V.

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 58087/10335

Address: Marktstraße, 89601 Schelklingen, Germany

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Other

Website: http://www.geopark-alb.de/

Total budget: EUR 161 000.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 128 800.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 32 200.00

Javna ustanova Park prirode Papuk

Name: Javna ustanova Park prirode Papuk

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 9100391705

Address: Trg Gospe Voćinske , 33522 Voćin, Croatia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Other

Website: https://www.pp-papuk.hr/

Total budget: EUR 179 900.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 143 920.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 35 980.00

Vodní zdroje Chrudim, spol. s r. o.

Name: Vodní zdroje Chrudim, spol. s r. o.

Partner’s ID if not PIC: +420607756371

Address: U Vodárny, 53701 Chrudim, Czech Republic

Legal status: private

Organisation type: SME

Website: https://www.geoparkzh.cz/en/

Total budget: EUR 170 550.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 136 440.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 34 110.00

Contractors:

Name: Jantárová cesta, s.r.o.
VAT registration or tax identification number: SK2121310939

Universitatea din București

Name: Universitatea din București

Department: 1. Hațeg Country UNESCO Global Geopark Administration Unit , 2. Faculty of Administration and Business

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 4505502

Address: Șoseaua Panduri, 050663 Bucharest, Romania

Department address: Libertatii , 335500 Hateg, Romania

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: https://unibuc.ro/

Total budget: EUR 238 300.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 190 640.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 47 660.00

Contractors:

Name: Angelina Voiaj SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: 24300960
Name: Nosce Group SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: 33945108

EVTZ Geopark Karawanken m.b.H.

Name: EVTZ Geopark Karawanken m.b.H.

Partner’s ID if not PIC: ATU75506409

Address: Hauptplatz , 9135 Bad Eisenkappel, Austria

Legal status: public

Organisation type: EGTC

Website: https://www.geopark-karawanken.at/

Total budget: EUR 315 590.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 252 472.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 63 118.00

Contractors:

Name: A & P Chambers Ltd
VAT registration or tax identification number: 456 3237 45
Name: Vasold GmbH
VAT registration or tax identification number: ATU75887747

Zavod za turizem Idrija

Name: Zavod za turizem Idrija

Partner’s ID if not PIC: SI51208296

Address: Mestni trg , 5280 Idrija, Slovenia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Other

Website: https://www.geopark-idrija.si/en/home/

Total budget: EUR 308 525.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 246 820.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 61 705.00

Contractors:

Name: Escapebox d.o.o.
VAT registration or tax identification number: SI 13693263
Name: Elizabeta Bonča s.p.
VAT registration or tax identification number: SI60550392

Partners map

Partners and Projects info

College for Tourism and Management Konjic

Danube GeoTour Plus - Boosting opportunities for more inclusive, valuable and balanced Geopark Communities

Partners and Projects info

Technická univerzita v Košiciach

Danube GeoTour Plus - Boosting opportunities for more inclusive, valuable and balanced Geopark Communities

Partners and Projects info

Bükk National Park Directorate

Danube GeoTour Plus - Boosting opportunities for more inclusive, valuable and balanced Geopark Communities

Partners and Projects info

Public Enterprise National Park Djerdap

Danube GeoTour Plus - Boosting opportunities for more inclusive, valuable and balanced Geopark Communities

Partners and Projects info

Geopark Swabian Alb

Danube GeoTour Plus - Boosting opportunities for more inclusive, valuable and balanced Geopark Communities

Partners and Projects info

Public Institution “Nature Park Papuk”

Danube GeoTour Plus - Boosting opportunities for more inclusive, valuable and balanced Geopark Communities

Partners and Projects info

Vodní zdroje Chrudim Ltd.

Danube GeoTour Plus - Boosting opportunities for more inclusive, valuable and balanced Geopark Communities

Partners and Projects info

University of Bucharest

Danube GeoTour Plus - Boosting opportunities for more inclusive, valuable and balanced Geopark Communities

Partners and Projects info

EGTC Geopark Karawanken - Karavanke

Danube GeoTour Plus - Boosting opportunities for more inclusive, valuable and balanced Geopark Communities

Partners and Projects info

Idrija Tourism Board

Danube GeoTour Plus - Boosting opportunities for more inclusive, valuable and balanced Geopark Communities

Partners and Projects info

Nature and Geopark Styrian Eisenwurzen

Danube GeoTour Plus - Boosting opportunities for more inclusive, valuable and balanced Geopark Communities

Lead partner

Project partner

Summary

Project name (EN): Danube GeoTour Plus - Boosting opportunities for more inclusive, valuable and balanced Geopark Communities

Project acronym: Danube GeoTour Plus

Project ID: DRP0200085

Project start date: 2024-01-01

Project end date: 2026-06-30

Project status: ongoing

Relevant linked projects:

Project title: Danube GeoTour
Funding Programme: Interreg Danube 2014-2020
LP: Idrija Tourist Board
PP: Styrian Eisenwurzen, PU Nature park Papuk, ARGE Geopark Karavanks, IRSNC, Balkony & Balaton Regional Tourism Nonprofit Ltd, University of Bucharest, Univeristy of Presov, Balaton National Park Directorate, Vodni Zdroje Chrudim, PE NP Djerdap
Year of implementation: 2017-2019
(EN) | Key synergies with this Project:
The Danube GeoTour was a basis for the Danube GeoTour Plus project.
- During the previous project, we researched the influence of tourism in geopark territories, identified the key pressures in individual geopark and set the common strategy for managing tourism pressures in geoparks. The strategy indicated the need to introduce preventive measures, of which the introduction of visitor monitoring was highly prioritised. Its implementation through a common approach tailored to geoparks is proposed by this Project. => Each geopark will address the tourism activities and areas identified in the strategy. New PPs with geoparks have followed the original approach and proposed their territories at risk of over-tourism.
- Danube GeoTour set common standards and successfully launched geoProducts and geoInterpretaion as key elements integrated into the joint product Danube geoTour. The approach was introduced in all participating geoparks and adopted as an innovative method by UNESCO Global Geopark Network. However, the developments over the last years have shown that segmentation is needed within the geopark products scheme. => This Project intends to build upon the existing Guideline for developing innovative geoproducts and 2 years of practical implementation of the Danube GeoTour product model by filling the gap and trend in the segment of top-end high-value products. A similar but more demanding approach with standards and pilots in geoExperiences is foreseen by this follow-up project.
(EN), Project title: LENA- Local Economy and Nature Conservation in the Danube Region
Funding Programme: Interreg Danube 2014-2020
LP: WWF Danube-Carpathian Programme Bulgaria
PP: Belene Municipality, Ivanovo Municipality, Vukova.Srijem County, WWFHungary, Donaubüro gemeinnützige GmbH, City of Tuttlingen, Romsilva National Forest Administration - Comana Nature Park Administration, Giurgiu County Council – GCC, WWF - World Wide Fund for Nature, Danube-Carpathian Programme Romania, BSC Kranj, West Pannon Regional and Economic Development Public Nonprofit Ltd., GMO FREE-Danube Soya
Year of implementation: 2017-2019
(EN) | Key synergies with this Project:
The Danube GeoTour is observing the approaches and results of the LENA project as some of their findings Strategies for managing natural resources. Thus this Project will consider some of the ideas on nature-based jobs presented and explained in the strategy that can be transferred and applied as elements of geoExperiecnes, in particular wild plants (in the case of the pilot in geoparks Idrija, Karawanks, Eisenwurzen), fishing-based livelihoods (in case of the pilot in geopark Djerdap), added value to sustainable agriculture (in all geoparks) as well as the results of know-how in e-mobility.
(EN), Project title: Humanita- Human-Nature Interactions and Impacts of Tourist Activities on Protected Areas
Funding Programme: Interreg Central Europe
LP: University of Žilina, Slovakia
PP: Eurac research, University of Parma, NOTITIA, Carinthia UAS, EGTC Geopark Karawanken-Karavanke, Administration of National Park Malá Fatra, CEEweb for Biodiversity, Public Institution Kamenjak, Bükk National Park Directorate
Year of implementation: Ongoing
(EN) | Key synergies with this Project:
Through the PP EGTC Geopark Karawanken-Karavanke and BDNP, we will ensure synergies between HUMANITA and Danube GeoTour Plus project in the SO3. The project partners will transfer approaches applied in HUMANITA that can use to geoparks concerning:
- Tourism impact assessment through the joint development of new, complementary tools and methods to properly assess environmental conditions to avoid damage caused by tourists
- Methods for involving tourists and local communities in participatory monitoring to bring awareness-raising and trust-building,
- testing new innovative monitoring methods that can apply to our three different territories
(EN), Project title: NaKult
Funding programme: INTERREG SI-AT
LP: ARGE Geopark Karawanken-Karavanke, Slovenia/Austria
PP: Municipality Črna na Koroškem, Municipality Prevalje, Municipality Ravne na Koroškem, Municipality Dravograd, RRA Koroška d.o.o., Regional Development Agency for Koroška, Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation/OE Maribor; Association Kulturni dom Pliberk/Bleiburg
Year of implementation: 2021
(EN) | Key synergies with our Project: The INTERREG NaKult project focused on raising heritage awareness through the joint development of a geotourism product - a long-distance hiking trail named Karawanken-Karavanke Trail around the geopark. Programmes for different target groups and a trail guidance system have been developed to communicate geodiversity and other natural and cultural features along the trail by geopark guides, who have been trained as geo-interpreters as part of the geopark training courses. The designed product captures an internal programme implementation plan in the Geopark area with a created logistic support, including the provider network, functional information and the guiding system, and the maintenance of the experience points and trails. => The long-distance hiking trail will serve as one of the pilot areas for studying visitor monitoring approaches for hiking trails in all geoparks, while geoguide training and service will be studied as an opportunity for attracting and upskilling vulnerable groups. (EN), Project title: Competence upgrading and development of the tourist offer in the leading tourist destination of Škofja Loka and Idrija in 2020 and 2021
Funding programme: National, Ministry of the Economy, Tourism and Sport (national and ERDF funds)
LP: ITB
PP: RAS
Year of implementation: 2021
(EN) | Key synergies with our project: The project focused on creating digital solutions for preserving and interpreting cultural heritage in Idrija destination. Part of the project also addressed the development of competencies necessary to identify and generate unique experiences linked to heritage and local stories and supported by digital technologies. First, purely digital experiences were created in the form of 3D models and animations, as well as VR and AR solutions presenting the functioning of the technical heritage (mercury processing rotary kiln and kamšt - water pump of a former mine). => This is for ITB as SO2 leader, an important lesson learnt for developing a more holistic and systematic concept of geopark Experiences that extends beyond digitisation. (EN), Project title: EUfutuR- Future Europe - Identity, Internationalization and Institutionalization - Geopark Karawanken
Funding programme: INTERREG SI-AT
LP: ARGE Geopark Karawanken-Karavanke, Slovenia/Austria
PP: RRA Koroška d.o.o., Regional Development Agency for Koroška, Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation/OE Maribor; Association Kulturni dom Pliberk/Bleiburg
Year of implementation: 2019
(EN) | Key synergies with our project: Involvement of local communities at different cross-border events (strengthening of the bilateral identity) and improvement of the international positioning of the Geopark area. The EUfutuR project has strengthened cooperation between local communities, schools and kindergartens, the local population as a general target group and institutions involved in regional development activities based on the development of joint management bodies, educational strategies and awareness-raising events to strengthen the common linguistic, cultural and natural identity of the area. => Valuable practical participatory methods and skills gained that will be shared with PP in SO1. (EN), Project title Reducing the negative impacts of tourism on ecosystems through an intelligent Software guide
Funding programme: TL02000267 TAČR - 2. veřejná soutěž ÉTA (Czech Republic Technological Agency)
LP: Hradec Králové University
PP: Vodné zdroje Chrudim, Ltd.
Year of implementation: 2019-2022
(EN) | Key synergies with our project:
The PP GIM as pp in the project will transfer the findings and approaches studied in this research project in respect of SO3:
- Tourist management
- Managing of over-tourism
(EN), Project title: Monumentalised Early Iron Age Landscapes in the Danube River Basin
Funding Programme: Interreg Danube Transnational Programme 2014-2020
LP: (АТ) Muzej Joanneum / Universalmuseum Joanneum
PP: University of Graz, Institute of Archaeology, University of Vienna, Institute of Prehistoric and HistoricalArchaeology, University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Arts, Department of Archaeology, Institute for the Protection of Cultural Heritage of Slovenia, Centre for Preventive Archaeology, University of Maribor, Faculty for Agriculture and Life Sciences, Institute of Archaeology, Archaeological Museum in Zagreb, Matrica Museum and Archaeological Park, Faculty of Humanities Institute of Archaeological Sciences, Archaeolingua Foundation, Hungarian National Museum
Year of implementation: 1. 1. 2017. - 30. 9. 2019.
(EN) | Key synergies with our project: The project Monumentalize Early Iron Age Landscapes in the Danube River Basin created an educational trail, "Warriors' Paths – Iron Age in the Golden Valley". The aforementioned educational trail is located in the Papuk Geopark. =>With the current Project, PP GP will capitalise on the results by including the trail and its tumuli in the foreseen new Experience of Papuk geopark and apply an adequate visitor monitoring system for open-air heritage hot spots (SO2, SO 3). (EN), Project name:
Konzeption einer SDG-Geocaching-Tour im Geopark Schwäbische Alb (Conception of an SDG geocaching tour in the Swabian Alb Geopark)
Funding programme: Project funding 2020 for German UNESCO Geoparks under the funding line of the German UNESCO Commission
LP: Geopark Swabian Alb
PP: District of Reutlingen
Year of implementation: 2021
Key synergies with our project: Experiences in the playful approach to education for sustainable development
(EN) | Key synergies with our project: Experiences in the playful approach to education for sustainable development (EN), Project title: Slovak-Hungarian GeoTouristic Partnership - GEOTOP
Funding Programme: Interreg V-A Slovakia-Hungary
LP: Bükk National Park Directorate
PP: Mesto Filakovo (SK)
Year of implementation: 2020-2022
(EN) | Key synergies with our project: By developing and introducing new geotourism services, enhancing experiential tourism, expanding the existing geotourism network, strengthening links with tourism service providers and providing professionally trained guides, geotourism can strengthen the mutual understanding of values and the economy of the region. => Valuable practical participatory methods and skills gained that will be shared with PP in SO1. And SO2. (EN), Project title: "ECO KARST – Ecosystem services of karst areas – driving force of local sustainable development"
Funding programme: Danube Interreg 2014-2020
LP: Slovenian Forest Service
PP: 12 (4 IPA partners)
Year of implementation: 2017-2019
(EN) | Key synergies with our project: Five karst-protected areas in 8 countries were participating. The selected areas share similar characteristics and problems. The project aimed to contribute to the protection and sustainable development of karst areas in the candidate countries along the Danube. => Experience in identifying ecosystem services is valuable for assessing the potential and opportunities for geopark Experiences (SO2). (EN)

Total budget/expenditure: EUR 2 288 015.00

Total EU funding (amount): EUR 1 830 412.00

Total EU funding (co-financing rate): 80.00%

Co-financing sources:

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

(bullets are inserted automatically and may be incorrectly placed)

Deliverables:

Strategy for engagement of vulnerable and disadvantaged groups in the Danube geoparks
Action plans for engagement of vulnerable and disadvantaged groups in the participating geoparks
Transnational innovation thematic and capitalisation event: ENGAGEMENT
Engagement campaigns
Transnational peer-to-peer exchanges between involved target groups of the geopark communities
GeoExperience model with common criteria
Transnational thematic and capitalisation event: geoEXPERIENCE
Pilot Actions: Validation of the experimental development and implementation of geoExperiences
Pilot Action 1: Long distance geoExperiences hiking trail in Styrian Eisenwurzen Nature and Geopark
Pilot Action 2: ‘Escape room’ outdoor geoExperience in Geopark Idrija
Pilot Action 3: GeoExperiencing countryside by personal and virtual reality in the Karawanks
Pilot Action 4: GeoExperience of paleohistroy of Dinosaurs nests in geopark Hațeg
Pilot Action 5: 'A journey into Earth History’ GeoExperience in Schwabian Alb
Pilot Action 6: GeoExperience of unknown geological history of Bükk
Pilot Action 7: Celts Mining GeoExperience in Iron Mountain
Pilot Action 8: GeoExperiencing life and death rituals in Early Iron Age at Kaptol, geopark Papuk
Pilot Action 9: GeoExperiencing traditional fishing on the Danube river in Djerdap geopark
GeoExperience Capacity Building
Joint "responsible" communication campaign
Danube GeoTour Plus VISION paper
Danube GeoTour Plus VISION forum
Visitor monitoring model for routes, heritage hot spots and large territories in geoparks
Residents, visitor and stakeholder survey report
Pilot Actions: testing visitor monitoring and management approaches in geoparks
Pilot visitor monitoring case study for ROUTES in geopark Karawanks
Pilot visitor monitoring up-take of ROUTES model solutions in geopark in Styrian Eisenwurzen
Pilot visitor monitoring up-take of ROUTES model solutions in geopark Schwabian Albs
Pilot visitor monitoring case study for HOT SPOTS in Bükki Nemzeti Park
Pilot visitor monitoring up-take of HOT SPOTS model solution in Idrija geopark
Pilot visitor monitoring up-take of HOT SPOTS model solution in geopark Papuk (CRO).
Pilot visitor monitoring case study for LARGE TERRITORIES in Iron Mountain geopark
Pilot visitor monitoring up-take of LARGE TERRITORIES model solution in Hateg geopark
Pilot visitor monitoring up-take of LARGE TERRITORIES model solution in Djerdap geopark
Transnational thematic and capitalisation event: BALANCED VISITOR MANAGEMENT
Digital analytical tool for supporting decision-making on geopark visitor management

Contribution to wider strategies and policies:

EUStrategyDanubeRegion Danube GeoTour Plus contributes to the objectives of Pillar 1 Connecting the Danube, PA 3 Culture & Tourism and supports the following Cultural Heritage (CH) and Tourism (T) Actions of the Action plan:
- Action »To build on cultural diversity as a strength of the Danube Region« (CH, pg. 26), Action »To promote sustainable tourism« (T, pg. 29 ) and Action »To support the improvement of the quality of tourism products« (T, pg. 29) as it unveils the social and economic potentials of diverse geopark's heritage and communities by inclusive, market-driven, high-value GeoExperiences and visitor management system that assure appropriate balance between visitors, residents and heritage/nature.
- Action »To enhance cooperation and contacts between people of different origins, to encourage creativity, and provide a driving force for cultural innovation and economic development, based on heritage, traditions and tourism« (CH, pg. 27) as the Project beside extensive network of stakeholders (11 PPs, 18 ASPs) encourages the active role of vulnerable groups (e.g. rural women, Roma isolated youth) in all stages, from strategy/concept designs to testing and upscaling, which shall link traditional skills of elderly with contemporary approaches of youth, add to creativity and applicability of the geoExperiences and more acceptable visitor management measures.
- Action »To establish the Danube Region as an important European tourist destination«. With follow-up, Project PPs are strengthening the initial transnational Danube GeoTour product and building a set of segmented niche products (with set high green standards) services and multilayer partnerships around it that will all together form a base for future Danube GeoTour partnership platform, envisaged to be set up by the end of the Project and that shall become one of the vital cornerstones so of the Danube tourism.
Collaboration with PA 3 PAC is envisaged in A2.6. under SO2 and through 3 project thematic transnational events.
EuropeanGreenDeal Danube GeoTour Plus contributes to the European Green Deal by translating its key missions to the Project actions on the ground, within the territories of participating geoparks, as follows:
- NO NET EMISSIONS of greenhouse gases by 2050: all Project solutions will consider climate-neutral effects.
- SUPPLY CLEAN, AFFORDABLE AND SECURE ENERGY: solar powered appliances for the field visitor monitoring systems devices will be preferred.
- MOBILISING INDUSTRY FOR A CLEAN AND CIRCULAR ECONOMY: Geopark Experiences will follow the principles of a closed material circle and promote circularity among local provides, meaning local natural or recycled materials will be preferred.
- BUILDING AND RENOVATING IN AN ENERGY AND RESOURCE EFFICIENT WAY: No building is envisaged; the single investment is renovating the archaeological site as part of the geoExperience.
- A ZERO POLLUTION AMBITION: Reducing the risk of over-tourism and eliminating car access to key nature and heritage values of geoparks is one of the purposes of SO3.
- PRESERVING AND RESTORING ECOSYSTEMS AND BIODIVERSITY of geoparks, together with cultural heritage, is the final goal embraced in the overall project objective and implemented in the Project activities.
- FROM FARM TO FROK principle, a friendly food system will be encouraged within the geoExperience concept, where authentic local food plays an important experience element.
- ACCELERATE THE SHIFT TO SUSTAINABLE AND SMART MOBILITY: Sustainable and smart mobility will be promoted in visitor mobility to and within the destination of geoparks as part of geoExperiences and visitor management measures; public transport, car-sharing and other sustainable modes of transportation will also be encouraged for project travelling.
- LEAVE NO ONE BEHIND: Involving disadvantaged groups is embedded as a horizontal principle in the Project to launch a just and inclusive transition within the Danube geoparks.
TerritorialAgenda2030 Danube GeoTour Plus derives from the geopark territorial development model that complies with the priorities of the territorial priorities for Europe as set in the Territorial Agenda 2030. Within the Project, the following main elements of the Territorial Agenda 2030 can be observed:
- A JUST EUROPE that offers a future perspective for all places and people
o BALANCED EUROPE: Balanced territorial development of geoparks where residents, visitors and space (heritage, geo and biodiversity) would co-habit without endangering each other is set in the centre of the Danube GeoTour. The diversity of targeted stakeholders, many in the role of ASP, proves this ambition.
o FUNCTIONAL REGIONS: The Project approach considers the involvement of stakeholders from different levels as geoparks are functional territories; thus, they reach over several municipalities.
o INTEGRATION BEYOND BORDERS is evidently demonstrated in the Danube GeoTour Plus as it provides a vivid platform for transnational collaboration of Danube geoparks with high potential for its long-lasting operation after the Project.
- A GREEN EUROPE THAT PROTECTS COMMON LIVELIHOODS AND SHAPES SOCIETAL TRANSITION
o HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT: Danube GeoTour Plus seeks to increase the attractiveness of living in rural territories by empowering residents with the potential and opportunities the geopark heritage and its brand and management services offer.
- CIRCULAR ECONOMY: GeoExperiences will emphasise circular principles in its design and performance.

Deliverable (other than infrastructural investment) areas:

Slovenia, Kaptol, NA - cadastral parcels 2316, 2323,95 ko. Kaptol, NA, 34334

Programme Common Output Indicator:

RCO 116 - Jointly developed solutions, Measurement unit:
RCO 084 - Pilot actions developed jointly and implemented in projects, Measurement unit:
RCO 083 - Strategies and action plans jointly developed, Measurement unit:
RCO 087 - Organisations cooperating across borders, Measurement unit:

Delivered output indicator(s):

(RCO83) Strategies and action plans jointly developed: 10.0

Programme Common Result Indicator:

RCR 104 - Solutions taken up or up-scaled by organisations, Measurement unit:
RCR 079 - Joint strategies and action plans taken up by organisations, Measurement unit:

Programme Result Indicator:

ISI - Organisations with increased institutional capacity due to their participation in cooperation activities across the borders, Measurement unit: No. of organisations

Delivered result indicator(s):

(RCR79) Joint strategies and action plans taken up by organisations: 1.0

Project part of European Union Macro-Regional or Sea Basin Strategy: EUSDR

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

Financing programme

2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-B Danube

Last month that data in keep.eu was retrieved from the Programme's website or received from the Programme

2025-12-17

No. of projects in keep.eu / Total no. of projects (% of projects in keep.eu)

138 / 138 (100%)

No. of project partnerships in keep.eu / Total no. of project partnerships (% of project partnerships in keep.eu)

1 413 / 1 413 (100%)

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Danube GeoTour Plus - Boosting opportunities for more inclusive, valuable and balanced Geopark Communities

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Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

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