In the picturesque Šumava Mountains region, a new initiative is taking root. FarmTourist project, launched under the PoliRuralPlus Outreach Call, aims to connect local producers, farmers, and tourism service providers. Its ambitious goal is to boost the regional economy, promote sustainable tourism, and showcase the best the area can offer, with a focus on cross-border collaboration with the Bavarian Forest.

From local products to sustainable tourism
The Šumava and the Bavarian Forest are areas of exceptional natural and cultural heritage. With their small settlements and absence of large resorts, much of this region lies within protected nature areas on both the Czech and Bavarian sides. Local farmers produce an array of goods, often organic or nearly organic, but their small-scale operations frequently lack the resources to effectively market their products or services.
Meanwhile, the Šumava’s most popular mountain destinations face the challenges of overtourism. This creates a paradox: while the region attracts many visitors, local producers often miss opportunities to connect with them due to limited marketing. FarmTourist seeks to bridge this gap by integrating local production with sustainable tourism. The project envisions a synergy that disperses seasonal tourism within broader area, benefiting both the local economy and the environment. Advanced information and communication (IC) technologies will play a central role in achieving such a vision.

Laying the foundation for connection
The project’s first milestone was the creation of an initial database of over 80 entities, including farmers, small and medium-sized enterprises, producers of regional specialties, accommodation providers, municipalities, tourism organizations, and other stakeholders. These partners were invited to join the project and learn about its goals. The database remains open to new participants interested in collaboration.
The task of creating and maintaining this database has been led by Úhlava, o.p.s., the regional leader in lifelong education for agriculture, food production, regional development, and environmental issues. With over 20 years of experience and participation in several successful international projects, Úhlava ensures a professional approach to this initiative.

Technology as a bridge between farmers and tourists
Looking ahead, FarmTourist plans to implement innovative technologies to facilitate connections between producers and tourists. A key outcome will be a digital platform featuring geoinformation, a catalog of regional products, and inspiring success stories from local producers. These tools aim to increase the visibility of local goods and offer tourists an attractive and sustainable experience.
Although some rural entrepreneurs remain skeptical about adopting such technologies, this approach is essential for competing with other regions. The project team plans to provide continuous training to help potential users integrate these tools effectively.
Benefits beyond regional borders
FarmTourist project offers a wide range of benefits. Targeted demand for local products and services will create new business opportunities, supporting the growth of a regional circular economy. By involving a diverse network of partners - from small businesses to local communities and public institutions - the project fosters collaboration and strengthens regional identity.
The project’s cross-border scope will attract visitors not only from the Czech Republic but also from neighbouring countries. Additionally, the integration with the larger PoliRuralPlus initiative serves as an inspirational model for local residents and stakeholders to develop their own activities.
Join us for inspiration at the workshop
On January 21, 2025, Úhlava, o.p.s. will host a workshop titled From Farm to Tourist at its headquarters in the historic former Dominican monastery in Klatovy. Participants will engage in discussions about the future of regional development, share experience, and explore best practices. The event will also highlight the potential of combining tradition with modern approaches to foster economic and sustainable development in the region.
The workshop promises to become the milestone in the realization of this initiative. Its rich program includes presentations from entrepreneurs who have won the Regional Product Contest and discussions on cross-border collaboration. Attendees will also enjoy tastings of local specialties.
Click here for the full programme and registration details. Participation is free, but registration is required Click here.
Join us on a journey to explore the unique synergy of farms, tourism, and sustainability in the Šumava region!
FarmTourist Workshop Invitation
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