DETOUR, co-funded by the European Union under the Single Market Programme (SMP), empowers tourism SMEs along European walking routes by accelerating their green and digital transition and reinforcing their role in sustainable and resilient tourism. From 1 November 2024 to 31 October 2027, it is developing a replicable model to strengthen rural tourism ecosystems along long-distance trails: the Via Francigena in Italy, the Lycian Way in Türkiye, the Greek mountain trails of Olympus, Kissavos and Mavrovouni, and the Sultan's Trail & Thrace Tourism Region in Bulgaria.

DETOUR delivers long-term benefits for walkers and businesses by improving sustainability, extending seasonality beyond peak periods, and digitalising market access. It contributes directly to the Sustainable Development Goals, promoting decent work and inclusive growth, responsible production, climate action, nature protection, and partnerships.

The project delivers three integrated actions. First, a “Train the Trainers” programme equips key tourism stakeholders in Italy, Greece, Türkiye and Bulgaria with practical expertise in sustainability and digital tools, enabling local knowledge sharing. Second, tailored training for tourism SMEs strengthens innovation capacity and digital skills, helping enterprises become more efficient and competitive. Third, cascade funding supports innovative SME-led projects, enabling companies to implement concrete solutions that enhance competitiveness and resilience along the routes.

Coordinated by the Municipality of Fidenza, DETOUR is delivered by route managers and knowledge-transfer partners, including Associazione Europea delle Vie Francigene, Culture Routes Society, DMO Es.Co. Esquilino Comunità – La Porta di Roma, the Antalya Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism, Training 2000 Piccola SC, the Mediterranean Center for the Environment, and the Management Organization of the Thrace Tourist Region.