The Training of Trainers workshop for the DETOUR project in Greece was held in Ano Poroia (Serres) from 21 to 23 November 2025, hosted by the Mediterranean Center of the Environment (MCE), the project partner in Greece. The workshop brought together seven prospective DETOUR trainers, representing a broad range of scientific and professional backgrounds linked to tourism infrastructure and development, and closely aligned with the project’s implementation area.

The workshop blended introductions to the DETOUR project and key stakeholder roles led by the MCE team with contributions from invited experts. Sessions explored the role of long-distance and regional hiking routes in sustainable local development; digital mapping and tools to support tourism promotion and SMEs; regional and municipal planning connected to tourism development in the Greek implementation area. Alongside classroom sessions, participants visited local entrepreneurs and discussed case studies of small and medium-sized tourism enterprises, focusing on how the long-distance hiking trail linking the project’s mountain ranges can support sustainable tourism utilization and diversified visitor experiences.

The programme began on 20 November with an informal welcome dinner, allowing participants, speakers and the project team to connect. It then continued with introductory sessions presenting DETOUR’s objectives, actions and overall vision. Discussions explored methods and challenges for developing, managing and promoting long-distance hiking and cycling routes as drivers of sustainable local development. Special attention was given to how trail networks can extend the tourism season, attract diverse visitors and support new local business and employment opportunities. The workshop also examined opportunities and challenges in the Olympus–Kissavos–Mavrovouni mountain area, supported by survey results mapping tourism SMEs. Participants reviewed tools and approaches that help tourism SMEs advance their digital and green transition and improve competitiveness. Field activities included a guided walk in Ano Poroia and an exchange with a local hospitality business presented as a good practice example.

The workshop strengthened a shared vision and practical toolkit for supporting SMEs and developing sustainable, trail-based tourism in the project area. With the trainer team now aligned and prepared, DETOUR moves forward to the next phase of training and mentoring activities with local stakeholders and tourism enterprises.