Within the DANUBE WOOD(s) ROUTE project, the RDA BKP team visited the Zlatibor Regional Development Agency in Serbia on October 23 and 24, 2025. The visit aimed to exchange experiences in leveraging cultural and natural heritage for sustainable rural tourism, following previous field activities in Montenegro’s national parks, Durmitor and Biogradska Gora.
Forest Ecosystems and Heritage Interpretation
During the stay in Serbia, partners visited Tara National Park and Mokra Gora Nature Park, including the Banjska Stena viewpoint, Drvengrad, Mećavnik, and the Šargan Eight museum complex. Tara National Park was highlighted as an area exceptionally rich in forest ecosystems, ideal for thematic trails and educational routes based on nature interpretation and the traditional use of wood.
At the “Old Village” Open-Air Museum in Sirogojno, participants explored an exceptional example of preserving traditional architecture and everyday life through authentic houses and craft workshops that depict the culture of the region.
The visit to Drvengrad demonstrated how tradition can be creatively portrayed in a modern cultural-tourism context, while the Šargan Eight railway served as a prime example of successful valuation of industrial and landscape heritage through unique travel experiences. In all locations, clear opportunities were observed for products connecting natural resources, wooden architecture, and traditional skills.
The establishment of a joint cultural route within this project represents a significant step in promoting local identity, preserving tradition, and strengthening sustainable rural tourism through interregional cooperation.
Improving Visitor Experience
The discussions particularly emphasized the need to improve site presentation, visitor management, and guiding programs. The goal remains to enhance the way intangible heritage is presented to guests, ensuring that local identity remains the foundation of authentic tourism products.
