Launched on November 1, 2024, DETOUR (Developing Resilient Tourism Ecosystems along Mediterranean Routes) is a three-year initiative co-funded by the European Union under the Single Market Programme (SMP), with a total budget of €2 million. The project is designed to promote sustainable and resilient tourism development by empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating along historic and rural routes. By emphasizing innovation and digital transformation, DETOUR aims to strengthen the financial, managerial, and technological capacities of these businesses, enabling them to offer high-quality, engaging tourism services.

DETOUR focuses on four iconic Mediterranean routes as pilot areas: the Via Francigena in Italy, particularly the stretch from Pavia to Rome; the Lycian Way in Türkiye; the Sultan’s Trail in Bulgaria; and the network of Mountain routes in Greece.

The project offers comprehensive support to SMEs by facilitating access to financing aimed at improving infrastructure, enhancing services, and promoting sustainable practices along these cultural routes. To further build their capacities, DETOUR provides tailored training and capacity-building sessions that focus on strengthening digital skills, enhancing business resilience, and encouraging innovation with a sustainability mindset. Moreover, SMEs receive guidance on digital transformation, including the adoption of advanced technologies such as augmented reality, online platforms, and digital marketing strategies, all designed to increase their competitiveness and boost visitor engagement.

This ambitious project is implemented through a transnational partnership comprising eight international organizations, led by the Municipality of Fidenza. Other partners include the Culture Routes Society (Türkiye), DMO Es.Co. Esquilino Comunità – La Porta di Roma, the Antalya Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism, Training 2000, the Mediterranean Center for the Environment (Greece), the Organization for the Management of the Thracian Tourist Region (Bulgaria), and the European Association of Vie Francigene (AEVF).