The “Via Dinarica Kosovo” initiative aims to enhance and promote Kosovo’s stage of the “Via Dinarica” trail, focusing on sustainability, community empowerment, and local economic development
Local institutions, tourism service providers, and communities along the trail directly benefit from this initiative. The project creates job opportunities and helps safeguard Kosovo’s landscapes for future generations.
Funded by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) and implemented by a consortium of Italian and Kosovar organizations, this initiative is part of the “NaturKosovo” project.
Running over 36 months, the project covers the “Via Dinarica” region of Kosovo, including Peja, Deçan, Junik, and the National Park of Bjeshkët e Nemuna.
The project rests on four key pillars:
- Improving natural and cultural itineraries to ensure a high-quality experience for visitors.
- Strengthening local coordination capacities in partnership with public and private institutions.
- Enhancing socio-economic conditions through grants and professional training to support sustainable development.
- Promoting the “Via Dinarica Kosovo” brand for regional and international integration through campaigns, fairs, events, and other activities.
A core focus of the promotion is raising awareness about biodiversity and natural heritage, with a particular emphasis on youth engagement. The project’s primary beneficiaries include local authorities, businesses, and communities, all playing a vital role in the initiative’s success and long-term sustainability.
Sustainability
The project is built on a long-term strategy of local ownership, with emphasis on capacity building, technical training and the promotion of eco-friendly tourism practices. Collaborating closely with local stakeholders ensures that economic benefits are directed toward the communities, ensuring sustained development and environmental conservation.
Contribution of Italian Expertise
The involvement of Italian expertise has proven essential in addressing the initiative’s complex objectives. Through a strategic partnership with the Italian Alpine Club (CAI), the National Alpine and Speleological Rescue Corps (CNSAS), and the Italian Association for Responsible Tourism (AITR), leading Italian organizations specializing in sustainable tourism management in mountainous and alpine regions, key challenges have been effectively addressed.
Tailored technical assistance and training programs were developed based on the specific needs of stakeholders and the distinct characteristics of the territories. This approach has equipped participants with the necessary technical knowledge and tools, while fostering a culture of knowledge-sharing, ensuring the initiative’s long-term sustainability. The prominent role of Italian expertise and the local partners of the consortium aims to significantly enhance the visibility of Via Dinarica Kosovo. This will position the region not only as a key destination within the regional tourism landscape, but also as an emerging international attraction, integrating it into established global tourism networks and drawing wider interest to the area.
Beneficiaries of the Project
The main beneficiaries of the initiative include local institutions, tourism service providers, and communities along Kosovar stretch of Via Dinarica.
The initiative targets the municipalities of Peja, Junik, and Deçan, as well as ministries, the park management agency, and cultural heritage sites. Local businesses, such as hospitality operators, gastronomy producers, and tourism guides, as well as civil society groups, students, researchers, and outdoor enthusiasts, who promote sustainable tourism and local development, also benefit from the project.
