SLOWDOWN: First workshop on slow tourism in Esztergom

From 18 to 20 June 2024, the SLOWDOWN project held its first Interregional Thematic Workshop and study visit in Esztergom and Nagybörzsöny (Hungary), as well as in Štúrovo, Kravany nad Dunajom, and Búč (Slovakia). Ister-Granum EGTC hosted the event, bringing together representatives from all project partners and key stakeholders in slow tourism.

Participants explored various topics on developing slow tourism in their regions, sharing international best practices and discussing the importance of fostering high-quality, sustainable experiences that respect local cultures and environments. They examined case studies from the Alps, Madeira, and Procida, focusing on strategic planning and sustainable development.

The programme included study visits to local slow tourism projects, such as small-scale developments along the Danube in Kravany nad Dunajom and the transformation of Karkó Ranch in Búcs, which now promotes sustainable tourism activities.

On the second day, participants met for the first Interregional Steering Group session, where they outlined guidelines for assessing slow tourism in the partner regions and introduced a joint methodology for status reports. They also discussed the project’s communication plan, highlighting the creation of dedicated podcast episodes and the use of social media to boost visibility.

The event concluded with a workshop on engaging local stakeholders in sustainable tourism policy development. In the coming months, project partners will organise regional meetings to promote dialogue and collaboration between local communities and policymakers.

This workshop marks the start of a collaborative process that will continue with future interregional meetings, aimed at implementing sustainable solutions and improving tourism policies across participating regions.