Skopje, North Macedonia – September 4, 2024 – This day marked the official launch of the Trans Dinarica Cycle Route, a groundbreaking initiative that spans six Western Balkan countries and promises to revolutionize sustainable tourism in the region. This innovative 5,000 km cycling route not only highlights the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Western Balkans but also aims to drive significant economic and social benefits.
The event opened with welcome speeches from the Minister of Culture and Tourism of North Macedonia, Zoran Ljutkov, the Swedish Ambassador to North Macedonia, H.E. Ms. Ami Larsson-Jain, and the Program Manager of RECONOMY, Paulo Rodrigues, each underscoring the initiative’s transformative impact on the region.
“The Trans Dinarica Cycling Route offers 5,000 kilometers of cycling through the Western Balkans, including 605 kilometers through North Macedonia. This route allows visitors to experience the beautiful landscapes, diverse traditions, cuisine, and stories from this region,” said Minister Ljutkov. “Promoting the Western Balkans as a single tourism offering will contribute to sustainable tourism and regional cooperation, providing economic and social prosperity while also opening the door to additional strategic investments. The Ministry of Culture and Tourism recognizes in this project an excellent opportunity to promote recreational tourism, historical sites, natural beauty, and the diverse experiences of the places along the route, while also strengthening the local economy, creating employment opportunities, and fostering cultural exchange.”
Sweden’s Ambassador to North Macedonia, Ami Larsson-Jain, expressed her enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “This project represents a significant milestone in our collective efforts to foster sustainable rural development and enhance the tourism industry in this vibrant region. The Trans Dinarica route is not just about tourism; it is about empowerment and opportunity. By focusing on young individuals and women in rural areas, we contribute to stimulating tourism activities that will generate new employment opportunities and supplementary income. This initiative is a testament to the power of collaboration and the shared vision of a brighter future for the Western Balkans.”
“Trans Dinarica is more than a cycling route; it’s a journey that connects us with the heart and soul of the Western Balkans. It spans six countries, over 5000 kilometers, and countless stories that are ready to be discovered. This route is a bridge between the diverse cultures, the shared history, and the collective future. It symbolizes the possibilities that arise when communities, governments, international partners, and the private sector come together with a shared goal: to promote sustainable development, foster inclusion, and spur economic growth in rural areas,” said Paulo Rodrigues, Program Manager of RECONOMY.
Following the speeches, representatives from Goodplace, Jan Klavora and Matic Klanjšček, presented the Trans Dinarica Cycle Route and its accompanying digital navigation application. They highlighted how the route connects diverse cultures, traditions, and environments, providing cyclists with an unparalleled way to explore the region. Recognized by over 100 international media outlets, including Lonely Planet, CNN, and The Guardian, the Trans Dinarica has already been celebrated as one of the “Best in Travel” for 2024.
The event concluded with an interactive session where participants, including the Swedish ambassador and the local cyclists, had the opportunity to test the new digital application along segments of the route. This hands-on experience showcased the ease of navigation and the immersive potential of the application, which is expected to drive increased tourist engagement and satisfaction.
Trans Dinarica is projected to generate €15 million in direct economic impact within three years and create over 3,000 jobs, significantly boosting the local economies of rural areas along the route. By bringing together public and private sectors, local communities, and international partners, the project aims to position the Western Balkans as a leading green tourism destination.
For more information on the Trans Dinarica Cycle Route and to explore the possibilities it offers, please visit https://www.transdinarica.com/.