Sector: Cultural heritage, sustainable tourism and rural development (LOT 3 and LOT 2)
Location: Prespa region, North Macedonia
Duration: 01.11.2025 – 31.10.2026
Donor: BOOST Grant Programme
Total budget: EUR 29,503
Requested grant: EUR 23,602.50
Main Project Objective
The project “Wheels of Heritage: Exploring the Roots and Routes of Prespa” aims to strengthen cultural heritage and support the sustainable development of the region by creating new tourism services based on active, cultural and nature-based tourism.
Through digital mapping, the development of cycling routes and support for local businesses, the project will increase the tourism visibility of Prespa, create new economic opportunities and motivate young people to actively contribute to the preservation and promotion of local heritage.
Specific Objectives
• To map at least 7 cultural, historical and gastronomic points of interest in Prespa and promote them through digital platforms.
• To develop and digitally map 2–3 cycling routes connecting the most important natural and cultural sites in the region.
• To support at least 7 local businesses, including cafés, restaurants, accommodation providers and bicycle rental services, in obtaining Bike Friendly Standard (BFS) certification.
• To organise a promotional event and B2B networking activities to strengthen local cooperation and increase the tourism visibility of the region.
Key Activities
• Participatory mapping with local stakeholders to identify cultural and gastronomic resources.
• Creation and testing of cycling routes with GPS tracks, descriptions and photos, available through online platforms.
• Training of at least 5 young people in heritage interpretation, digital marketing, storytelling and sustainable tourism.
• Support for local businesses in meeting BFS criteria and their promotion through BFS and Outdooractive.
• Organisation of a promotional event with a cultural programme, guided tours, media coverage and networking opportunities.
Expected Results
• A digital map with at least 7 cultural and historical sites, available to visitors and tourism operators.
• 2–3 developed and promoted cycling routes that connect cultural tradition with sustainable mobility.
• At least 5 young people trained and actively involved in promoting the cultural and eco-tourism heritage of Prespa.
• 7 businesses certified with the Bike Friendly Standard, with improved services for cycling tourists.
• Increased regional visibility through a promotional event and digital campaign, as well as strengthened cooperation among local tourism stakeholders.
