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23. October 2023.

Slunj – Best Tourism Village 2023 by UNWTO

Photo credit: Vedran Božićević

Photo credit: Vedran Božićević

The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) included Slunj on the list of the best tourist villages in the world as an outstanding rural tourist destination with recognized cultural and natural assets, a commitment to preserving community-based values and a clear commitment to innovation and sustainability in economic, social and ecological dimensions.

Slunj

 

UNWTO declared the best tourist villages in the world on October 19th, 2023., at the General Assembly in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. They were selected through an invitation-based competition that saw nearly 260 rural destinations from around the world apply. Among them, 54, including Slunj, were declared the best, while an additional 20 were included in the upgrade program.

These are villages (or smaller towns in rural areas) that, according to UNWTO criteria, excel in nurturing rural areas, preserving landscapes, cultural diversity, local values, and culinary traditions.

Slunj

Commenting on these awards, UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili emphasized that tourism can be a powerful force for inclusivity and empowering local communities everywhere. He pointed out that the recognized villages have used tourism as a catalyst for their development and well-being.

 

A global network of local communities

UNWTO launched the initiative for the best tourist villages in 2021 as part of the “Tourism for Rural Development” program, which promotes tourism development in rural areas, fights depopulation, and encourages innovation and value chain integration through sustainable tourism practices.

The villages were assessed in several key areas this year, including the preservation of cultural and natural resources, economic, social and environmental sustainability, tourism development and value chain integration, tourism management, infrastructure and connectivity, as well as health and safety.

BTV Slunj

The initiative comprises three pillars:

Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO: Recognizes outstanding rural tourism destinations with accredited cultural and natural assets, a commitment to preserving community-based values, and a clear commitment to innovation and sustainability across economic, social, and environmental dimensions.

Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO Upgrade Programme: Supports villages on their journey to meet recognition criteria, helping in areas identified as gaps during evaluation.

The Best Tourism Villages Network: a space for exchanging experiences and good practices, learning, and opportunities among its members, and it is open to contributions of experts and public and private sector partners engaged in the promotion of tourism as a driver for rural development.

The Network enlarges every year and aims at becoming the largest global rural network: with the announcement today of these 74 new members, 190 villages are now part of this unique Network.

Slunj

 

Why Slunj

Slunj, situated on the serene banks of the Slunjčica and Korana rivers, is strategically leveraging tourism as a catalyst for rural development while prioritizing the preservation of its rich natural and cultural heritage. The town recognizes the need to mitigate potential negative impacts of tourism by implementing sustainable practices, safeguarding protected landscapes, and investing in both physical and digital infrastructure.  

The Water Secrets of Slunj project stands out as a testament to this commitment, focusing on the responsible management of the Slunjčica and Rastoke landscapes. Through innovative initiatives like interpretive paths and improved infrastructure, the project aims to enhance visitor experiences while ensuring the sustainable utilization of the region’s natural treasures. 

In addition to its emphasis on tourism, Slunj places a high value on preserving its cultural heritage. Traditional practices, including local songs, dances, and liturgical rituals, are actively promoted, contributing to the town’s unique identity. Restoration projects for historical buildings and events showcasing traditional skills further underscore Slunj’s dedication to cultural preservation. 

Events like Mill Days and historical walking tours celebrate local intangible heritage, fostering community engagement and a sense of pride. 

Slunj, with its Natura 2000-protected landscapes and various green projects, aligns with the global call for environmental responsibility. The city’s forward-thinking Waste Management Plan and smart city development strategy position it as a model for holistic, sustainable growth. As a member of the European Federation of Napoleonic Cities, Slunj not only cherishes its history but also embraces modern connectivity, ensuring it remains an attractive destination for both locals and global travellers. 

Slunj

Cultural Resilience and Heritage Preservation

Slunj stands as a custodian of cultural heritage, ensuring the continuity of traditions like local songs, traditional dances, and liturgical rituals. Through events, restoration projects, and initiatives like Mill Days, the town not only keeps these traditions alive but actively involves the community. By celebrating local intangible heritage, Slunj fosters a sense of identity and belonging, creating a vibrant cultural tapestry.

Slunj

 

Sustainable Tourism and Environmental Stewardship

The town’s approach to tourism goes beyond economic gains; it prioritizes environmental sustainability. Projects like “Drop the plastic, make a difference” highlight the town’s commitment to reducing plastic use and encouraging sustainable practices.

 The Waste Management Plan, smart city initiatives, and Natura 2000 protection further underscore Slunj’s dedication to minimizing its ecological footprint and preserving its natural beauty.

 

Economic Empowerment and Innovation

Slunj’s economic strategy goes hand in hand with community empowerment. Through grants, subsidies, and programs like Zaželi, the town actively supports entrepreneurship, especially for women and ethnic minorities. 

By promoting local products, integrating the value chain, and investing in green innovation, Slunj is not only securing economic benefits but also fostering a resilient and diverse local economy.

Slunj

 

Best Tourism Villages 2023

List of Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO 2023 is as follows (by alphabetic order):

  • Al Sela, Jordan
  • Barrancas, Chile
  • Biei, Japan
  • Caleta Tortel, Chile
  • Cantavieja, Spain
  • Chacas, Peru
  • Chavín de Huantar, Peru
  • Dahshour, Egypt
  • Dhordo, India
  • Dongbaek, Republic of Korea
  • Douma, Lebanon
  • Ericeira, Portugal
  • Filandia, Colombia
  • Hakuba, Japan
  • Higueras, Mexico
  • Huangling, China
  • Jalpa de Cánovas, Mexico
  • Kandovan, Iran
  • La Carolina, Argentina
  • Lephis Village, Ethiopia
  • Lerici, Italy
  • Manteigas, Portugal
  • Morcote, Switzerland
  • Mosan, Republic of Korea
  • Oku-Matsushima, Japan
  • Omitlán de Juárez, Mexico
  • Oñati, Spain
  • Ordino, Andorra
  • Oyacachi, Ecuador
  • Paucartambo, Peru
  • Penglipuran, Indonesia
  • Pisco Elqui, Chile
  • Pozuzo, Peru
  • Saint-Ursanne, Switzerland
  • Saty, Kazakhstan
  • Schladming, Austria
  • Sehwa, Republic of Korea
  • Sentob, Uzbekistan
  • Shirakawa, Japan
  • Sigüenza, Spain
  • Şirince, Türkiye
  • Siwa, Egypt
  • Slunj, Croatia
  • Sortelha, Portugal
  • St. Anton am Arlberg, Austria
  • Tân Hoá, Viet Nam
  • Taquile, Peru
  • Tokaj, Hungary
  • Văleni, Moldova
  • Vila da Madalena, Portugal
  • Xiajiang, China
  • Zapatoca, Colombia
  • Zhagana, China
  • Zhujiawan, China

More info:

https://www.unwto.org/news/unwto-names-its-best-tourism-villages-2023

https://www.unwto.org/tourism-villages/en/villages/slunji-rastoke/

Slunj

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