Project Information

Project Overview

The general objective of this project is to enhance the competitiveness of the tourism sector through the economic valorization of cultural and natural heritage. By integrating local gastronomy into the regional tourism offer, the initiative preserves authentic culinary traditions and promotes the unique flavors of the cross-border area between Montenegro and Albania.

Main Objectives:

• Economic valorization of gastronomic heritage for sustainable tourism development.
• Standardizing and introducing traditional recipes into modern hospitality services.
• Establishing thematic gastro-routes as new, high-value tourism products.

Key Results

1. Revitalizing Traditional Cuisine
The project conducted extensive research into old, traditional recipes, which were then standardized for contemporary use. Capacity-building activities were implemented to help local restaurants and hotels successfully integrate these authentic dishes into their professional menus.

2. Development of Gastronomic Routes
Thematic gastro-routes were established, featuring designated tasting points within rural households. This result also included professional packaging and labeling of local products, as well as specialized training for rural families to ensure high standards of service.

3. Promotion and Market Placement
Local gastronomic offers were promoted through various materials and high-profile events, including a gastro fair in Montenegro. To ensure long-term visibility, the project organized study visits for gastro-journalists, travel agencies, and influential bloggers.

Partnership

The Regional Development Agency (RDA) for Bjelasica, Komovi and Prokletije served as the Lead Applicant, with the National Tourism Organization as the partner in Montenegro. Partners from Albania included Eco-Partners for Sustainable Development (Tirana) and the Municipality of Puka.