Apple Trail of Sandomierz

By project SYSTOUR

Published on 14 August 2024

Poland

Świętokrzyskie

Obrazów

About this good practice

The "Sandomierski Apple Trail" is an example of a marketing and promotional project that combines the cooperation of many partners, mutually creating and searching for new solutions enabling the development of entrepreneurship in the countryside and promoting the Sandomierska Region. Entities were gathered around a common initiative to create a comprehensive tourist product. Cooperation, exchange of services provided, joint promotion and action plan allow all stakeholders to develop their business on a larger scale, increase profits and manage the product through the association. A very important element is the fact that the association operates as a tour operator that both creates a tourist offer and sells it as ready-made tours
Entrepreneurs make the trail more attractive with innovative recreation proposals. The trail leads through a land of extraordinary orchards full of delicious fruit, picturesque landscapes, as well as rich history and interesting artists. The trail includes 4 thematic routes that can be traveled not only by car, but also on foot or by bike. These are the following routes: agritourism, appetizing, artistic and wine.
It is also possible to take part in interesting workshops, field games, shows, tastings of regional dishes and various activities, e.g. cycling, kayaking, boat cruises on the Vistula, horse riding. The routes also include objects presenting the wonderful cultural and historical heritage of this region.

Resources needed

Sources of financing: membership fees, national and EU projects, business activity as a tour operator. The main groups of people involved in are: fruit growers and farmers, tourist guides, local creators and educators, service sector employees, marketing experts, management board and members.

Evidence of success

The Association operates: 10 local governments, 16 agritourism farms, 8 orchard farms, 5 vineyards, 2 foundations, 10 local entrepreneurs and 5 active tourism entities. It is constantly developing.
The trail received first place in the competition for the most interesting rural tourism package at the 8th International Fair of Rural Tourism and Agrotourism "AGROTRAVEL" in Kielce in 2016. The trail was nominated for the Title of Ambassador of Eastern Poland in the field of Tourism/2023.

Potential for learning or transfer

The Sandomierski Apple Trail is an excellent example of an integrated tourism initiative that promotes local agriculture and culture, stimulating the economic development of the region. The activity focuses on the promotion of high-quality local products, such as apples, wines and cheeses, which are recognizable and appreciated both at home and abroad. The authenticity of these products, combining tradition with modern cultivation and production methods, is crucial to attract tourists and interest other regions. The integration of agricultural, tourist and cultural activities is the foundation of the trail's success. Creating partnerships between local producers, tourism entrepreneurs, artists and local authorities allows for the creation of a coherent offer that attracts diverse visitors. The trail promotes sustainable and ecological practices, which not only protects the environment, but also responds to the growing demand of tourists for responsible and ethical forms of recreation.