The program will begin with a welcome in Sigulda, followed by lunch at Krimulda Manor with an informational workshop on “How Nature Can Help or Interfere with Entrepreneurship?”. Participants will also enjoy Sigulda sightseeing and a visit to the Gauja National Park Nature Center, ending the day with a traditional Latvian dinner at Bucefāls.
Day two will feature workshops on “Restrictions of Nature Along with Activities”, exploring how protected area regulations influence entrepreneurship, events, and local life. The group will then travel to Mini Zoo Mežiņi in Valmiera district, have lunch at Valmiermuiža Brewery, and take part in a walking discussion in Cēsis Old Town about entrepreneurship in the heart of the National Park. Dinner will be served at the historic Āraiši Windmill before the highlight of the event—the Night of Fire in Vienkoču Park. This evening program will combine cultural and entrepreneurial experiences, featuring music performances, folklore groups, fire rituals, workshops (torch-making, archery, ancient crafts, woodcarving, herbal traditions), horseback riding, and food prepared in nature.
On the final day, participants will engage in a workshop on “Challenges for Tourism Entrepreneurs in Protected Nature Areas: Examples and Solutions”, followed by a walking visit through Līgatne village, known for its historic paper mill, 19th-century workers’ settlement, and cultural attractions.
The NaturEUnite project aims to connect citizens living in and around Europe’s protected natural areas, foster pride in local heritage, and encourage collaboration among communities and tourism entrepreneurs. The project’s core activities are experience exchange events hosted across partner regions, immersing participants in local traditions, landscapes, and community life while promoting dialogue on shared challenges and opportunities.
Project Partners:
Gauja National Park Tourism Association (Latvia)
Lahemaa Tourism Association | Lahemaa Turismiühing (Estonia)
Soomaa Tourism Association | Soomaa Turism MTÜ (Estonia)
Association Bogastvo podeželja | Društvo “Bogastvo podeželja” (Slovenia)
Directorate of Aukštaitija National Park and Labanoras Regional Park | Aukštaitijos Nacionalinio Parko ir Labanoro Regioninio Parko Direkcija (Lithuania)
Albania Sustainable Development Organization (Albania)
Activities in the NaturEUnite project are co-funded by the European Union under the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV) Town Twinning program.
Press Contact:
Kristīne Luca
Marketing and Communication Specialist
Gauja National Park Tourism Association
E-mail: info@entergauja.com
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