On 9 October, the European Association of the Via Francigena (AEVF) took part in TTG Travel Experience, one of the leading international tourism exhibitions, presenting the DETOUR project at the stand of Confartigianato, the Italian organization supporting artisans, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and professionals in the tourism sector.
The collaboration between AEVF and Confartigianato — renewed in July 2025 — is based on a shared commitment to promote sustainable tourism and enhance local economies. Their partnership includes joint visibility for common initiatives, regular updates on national and European projects, and participation in training and awareness-raising activities focused on slow tourism and the Via Francigena.

During the meeting, Simona Spinola, AEVF Communication Expert, introduced the DETOUR project, underlying its support to tourism-related SMEs through digitalisation, innovation, cooperation, and the enhancement of cultural and natural heritage, while fostering the economic growth of local communities. The project seeks to develop a replicable model that strengthens the resilience of local tourism systems along selected rural trails in South-Eastern Europe, ensuring lasting benefits for both hikers and small businesses.

The panel, introduced and moderated by Roberta Corbò, Head of Territorial Heritage, Local Communities and Tourism for Confartigianato, featured the participation of numerous stakeholders who presented projects focused on enhancing the food, wine, and cultural heritage linked to the Via Francigena. Among them, Antonella Simone from Confartigianato La Spezia showcased the commitment of the Via Francigena in the Liguria Region — an exemplary case of how slow and walking tourism can serve as a powerful economic driver for local areas. Her presentation highlighted the municipality of Luni and the Visit Spezia network (visitspezia.it), which promotes a territory rich in sea, mountains, culture, art, history, and local excellence. In this context, DETOUR fits perfectly — a concrete opportunity for local growth through innovation, training, and support to small and medium-sized enterprises operating along the cultural routes.