Last weekend, the Vidzeme Tourism Cooperation Network successfully participated in the Baltics’ largest tourism trade fair, “Balttour 2026,” where it presented four new tourism products: Vidzeme Coastal Flavours, birdwatching offers, “Bānītis Land,” and Green Railways. Participation in the fair allowed a wide audience to discover Vidzeme’s diverse tourism offerings, highlight new routes, and strengthen the region’s recognition at both local and international levels.

The opening of the Vidzeme Tourism Cooperation Network stand was honored by the presence of the Minister of Economy, Viktors Valainis, the Chairman of the Gulbene Municipality Council, Normunds Mazūrs, and representatives of the Vidzeme Tourism Association board. Opening speeches were delivered by the project’s content manager Linda Medne, the long-standing chairman of the Vidzeme Tourism Association Raitis Sijāts, and board member Simona Sniķe, all emphasizing the importance of cooperation in the development of regional tourism.

During the fair, visitors could meet representatives from various municipalities, learn about new tourism routes, and experience the offers firsthand. The handcar from “Gulbenes–Alūksnes bānītis” Ltd. drew significant interest, sparking conversations about travel opportunities in Vidzeme and the importance of industrial heritage in tourism experiences. Meanwhile, representatives of the Latvian Greenways Association and entrepreneurs presented active recreation opportunities on greenways and sustainable travel routes.

Alongside the Vidzeme Tourism Cooperation Network stand, Vidzeme’s coastal municipalities showcased their authentic offerings, highlighting coastal gastronomy, culture, and active leisure. The Turaida Museum Reserve set a festive mood for visitors with Summer Solstice vibes, emphasizing Latvian cultural traditions and the approaching peak tourism season.

As part of the fair, a meeting of the Vidzeme Tourism Cooperation Network members took place, where project partners reviewed achievements to date and discussed future development directions and planned tasks.

Participation in the fair fostered the establishment of new cooperation contacts with industry professionals, tour operators, and partners, and provided valuable insights into current travel trends and visitor interests. Discussions with guests confirmed a high level of interest in authentic experiences, regional events, active recreation, and diverse travel routes in Vidzeme.

The Vidzeme Tourism Cooperation Network expresses its gratitude to the organizers and participants of the “Balttour” trade fair, the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA), and ALTA – the Association of Latvian Travel Agents and Operators – for the valuable networking opportunities and workshops with foreign tour operators, as well as to all visitors for their interest and engagement.

Participation in the “Balttour 2026” trade fair was implemented with co-financing from European Union funds within project No. 1.2.3.6/2/24/A/004 “Vidzeme Tourism Cooperation Network.”

Photo: Gita Memmēna