The project “Enhancement of sustainable water tourism in Lithuania-Latvia cross-border region, involving local entrepreneurs and communities” (WaterTour) is approaching its completion, having made a significant contribution to the development of sustainable water tourism in the Latvia – Lithuania border region. The project has improved tourism infrastructure, strengthened regional visibility, and supported local economic activity.
Responding to the growing demand for nature-based tourism, project partners developed a comprehensive water tourism route that integrates infrastructure, natural and cultural attractions, tourism services, and accessible visitor information. Within the project, 12 water tourism sites were improved through the construction and renovation of docks, rest areas, mobile piers, and the installation of informational signage. These improvements were implemented at key water bodies in the Zemgale and Aukštaitija regions, including the Daugava, Nemunėlis, Suseja, Šventoji rivers, Lake Aisetas, as well as in the Labanoras, Gražutė and Anykščiai Regional Parks and the Biržai district, ensuring a safe and high-quality experience for both local residents and international visitors.
One of the key project outcomes is the creation of a joint Zemgale–Northern Lithuania water tourism map, covering 24 rivers and 84 routes. The map provides easily accessible and well-structured information on navigable rivers, route difficulty levels, boat rental services, and safety recommendations. This comprehensive overview significantly simplifies trip planning for experienced paddlers, families, and beginners.
WaterTour project has also strengthened cooperation among municipalities, tourism service providers, entrepreneurs, and local communities. Activities such as partner meetings, an international conference, seminars, training sessions, and a study visit abroad contributed to improved service quality and the development of joint tourism products. As a result, cooperation among businesses has increased, enabling better services for a growing number of visitors.
Particularly significant benefits were achieved in the Jēkabpils and Aizkraukle municipalities, where water tourism infrastructure accessibility was improved and targeted groundwork was carried out for future sector development. In Jēkabpils, a water and waterfront tourism strategy was developed, viewing the Daugava River as a complex ecosystem and encouraging closer inter-municipal cooperation. In Aizkraukle, improved infrastructure has already led to the establishment of new businesses, including catering services located near the riverbanks, expanding the local tourism offer.
A wide-ranging communication campaign helped raise public awareness of the project’s results, including a media trip, publications in digital and print media, social media videos, and cooperation with influencers. These activities highlighted Zemgale region’s rivers as a valuable “blue gold” resource for tourism and the economy, while also demonstrating that water tourism is possible beyond the summer season.
According to Anna Builo-Hoļme, Project Manager at the Zemgale Planning Region, WaterTour has acted as a key driver for regional development, proving that sustainable water tourism requires strategic planning and long-term cooperation. The project has laid a strong foundation for making the rivers of Zemgale and Selonia increasingly attractive water tourism destinations in the years to come.
More information in the original publication: https://www.zemgale.lv/lv/jaunums/ilgtspejigs-udens-turisms-klust-par-jaunu-izaugsmes-dzinejspeku-regiona
