Building resilient tourism across Mediterranean routes
DETOUR is a EU-funded project under SMP COSME Programme, dedicated to developing sustainable and resilient tourism ecosystems along rural and historical routes in the Mediterranean. With a €2 million budget over three years (1 November 2024 – 31 October 2027), DETOUR brings together eight international partners to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the tourism sector in growing, innovating, and remaining competitive — by leveraging funding opportunities, digital tools, and a shared commitment to slow and responsible travel.
📍Call for SMEs Training from 8 September to 30 November 2025.
ℹ️Find all the information on the Training page.
Purpose and Impact of DETOUR
Capacity Building
Targeted training for tourism professionals through the “Train the Trainers” programme.
SMEs Training and Mentoring
Training and mentoring to help tourism SMEs innovate, grow sustainably, and adopt slow, responsible travel practices.
Acceleration Programme
The Acceleration Programme aims to fast-track innovation by providing resources and mentorship to support project growth and scalability.
Latest News and Events
DETOUR Matchmaking Day in Greece
On 6 February 2026, DETOUR partner, the Mediterranean Centre of Environment (MCE), conducted national DETOUR Matchmaking Day in Larisa, Thessaly. The event brought together 25 SMEs and DETOUR trainers, marking the launch of the Greek training and mentoring programme.
DETOUR Info activities along the Lycian Way
With the support of ATM (Antalya Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism), Cultural Routes Society - Kultur Rotalari Dernegi (CRS) conducted an outreach and capacity-building activities for SMEs connected to the Lycian Way in Türkiye. These activities are part of the wider DETOUR effort to help SMEs operating along Mediterranean walking routes access funding opportunities and develop innovative, sustainable, and collaborative tourism projects.
Benefits of walking for SMEs and tourists
Long-distance walking and cycling routes revitalize inland economies by creating a "multiplier effect" of direct and indirect jobs while attracting new residents and entrepreneurs to rural areas. Driven by a surge in diverse, international demand, these routes bolster economic resilience, public health, and cultural preservation through strategic development projects.
Our Partners
