NaturEUnite International Project Delegation Explores Entrepreneurship in the City of Cēsis and Gauja National Park

During the three-day visit, the specialists and tourism entrepreneurs met with a wide range of local businesses: manor estates, accommodations, caterers, rural craft and animal farms, craft museums, local guides, and many others. Discussions focused on the restrictions and opportunities entrepreneurs have encountered while establishing, developing, and running businesses within Gauja National Park.

Alongside these discussions, international experts and entrepreneurs discovered the cultural, natural, and historical values of Gauja National Park by visiting Cēsis Old Town, the Gauja National Park Nature Center, Sietiņiezis Rock, and the Sigulda Bobsleigh and Luge Track. The central cultural event of the visit was Fire Night in Vienkoči Park, where participants enjoyed a diverse program along magically illuminated trails.

Key insights from the discussions:

• It is easier to start and develop a business within the protected area of Gauja National Park compared to partner regions in other countries.

• The younger generation perceives the legal framework for entrepreneurship more positively and readily accepts restrictions when they are in place.

• The location within Gauja National Park provides significant advantages for entrepreneurs in attracting tourists and extending their stays.

The goal of the NaturEUnite project is to promote friendship among residents living in and around Europe’s protected natural areas, to foster pride in local cultural and historical heritage, and to encourage cooperation between communities and tourism entrepreneurs. The project’s main activities include experience exchange events organized in partner regions, introducing participants to local traditions, landscapes, and community life, while facilitating dialogue about shared challenges and opportunities.

Visit organizer: Gauja National Park Tourism Association.
The exchange visit took place within the framework of the international project Nature Unites European Citizens, co-financed by the European Union.

Main project partner: Gauja National Park Tourism Association.
Project partners: Albania Sustainable Development Organization; Association Bogastvo podeželja (Slovenia); Lahemaa Tourism Association (Estonia); Soomaa Tourism Association (Estonia); Directorate of Aukštaitija National Park and Labanoras Regional Park (Lithuania).