In Montenegro, smallholder farmers rely heavily on traditional agricultural practices for their livelihoods. However, this reliance comes with significant risks—a poor blueberry harvest or honey season can have devastating impacts on rural households.

To address this, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) have rolled out a project that links rural farming households with agritourism. The project aims to diversify the incomes of farmers in small villages across the region, while promoting Montenegrin cuisine and preserving traditional food production practices.

Diversification as a Key to Survival

By linking farming with tourism, households are no longer solely dependent on crop yields. Tourists visiting the Montenegrin mountains seek authenticity—they want to taste food right where it is produced and experience the spirit of tradition. This project enables farmers to market their products directly at their doorstep, adding value through tourism services.

Positive Impact on Young People

One of the most significant aspects of the project is its impact on young people in rural areas. By providing new economic opportunities, agritourism motivates the younger generation to stay on their ancestral lands, combining modern promotional approaches with the skills inherited from their forefathers. In this way, Montenegrin villages are becoming hubs of innovation rather than forgotten landscapes.

This model not only preserves our gastronomic heritage but also ensures that Montenegro’s mountains remain vibrant, sustainable, and attractive to visitors from all over the world.