The first in-person event among DIANA’s partners was hosted by ABAT BALKANIA in Skopje, North Macedonia, on June 24th and 25th, 2024.

The main objective was to analyze the state of the art of the first intellectual output’s development: a compendium of best practices in Accessibility and Inclusive Tourism in protected natural areas. This unique document aims to collect the most relevant good practices and examples of accessible solutions applied in nature areas around the world. To achieve this, project partners have utilized various research methods, including surveys, roundtables, and desk research.

To ensure the proper performance of this deliverable and to carry out effective project management, partners organized this first transnational meeting.

The meeting started on Sunday, June 23rd, with a day trip to Matka Canyon, a major natural attraction near Skopje. This provided an opportunity for relaxation, confidence-building, and discovery of the natural environment and local gastronomy.

This informal gathering was followed by a formal agenda over the next two days, during which partners discussed project activities, dissemination actions, reporting, quality management, and future steps towards more accessible and inclusive tourism in Europe’s natural parks, starting with Italy and Macedonia.

Upon returning home, the project partners are eager to continue working on the project activities, specifically the compendium of best practices, which will be available soon.

Before its publication, you can still participate in its development through a questionnaire designed for both users and public authorities of natural parks. This questionnaire will help partners map real needs, expectations, and problems collaboratively.

You can click here to contribute your insights towards universal accessibility and inclusiveness in nature.