Alpine tourism has been undergoing significant transformations due to climate change, particularly in winter, where snow can no longer be taken for granted. As part of the BeyondSnow project, RAGOR organized a workshop in Bohinj to explore concrete adaptation strategies. Unlike previous discussions, this session focused on turning research and analysis into actionable solutions, involving key local and national stakeholders to ensure their feasibility and impact.
The Bohinj Workshop: From Insights to Action
On January 28, 2025, RAGOR hosted the fourth BeyondSnow workshop in Bohinj. While past discussions have addressed the challenges of climate change, this workshop took a step further, outlining tangible measures that can be implemented to reshape tourism in Alpine regions.
With increasingly unpredictable winters, low- and mid-altitude destinations are forced to rethink their tourism models. This workshop highlighted innovative ways to build resilience, ensuring that tourism remains viable without relying solely on snow.
Key Strategies for a Resilient Tourism Model
The workshop discussions led to the definition of three key pillars for adapting Alpine tourism to climate change:
“Green Winters”: Developing tourism offerings for milder winters, autumn, and spring. This includes the creation of new niche products, transforming outdoor centers into year-round facilities, and fostering regional collaboration to enhance existing tourism assets.
“Relieve the Summer”: Addressing the increasing pressure on destinations during peak summer months by implementing better visitor management strategies. One key approach is the development of circular thematic trails to distribute visitor flows more effectively.
“Competence Center”: Investing in people to facilitate climate adaptation. This includes expanding the network of local guides and experience providers, as well as exchanging best practices among tourism professionals and destinations.
From Strategy to Implementation in Bohinj
Unlike previous discussions, this workshop directly contributed to shaping the Bohinj Tourism Adaptation Strategy to Climate Change. Developed in collaboration with national and local stakeholders, the strategy consolidates concrete actions that can be implemented in the region.
Key organizations involved in this process include the Directorate for Tourism of the Ministry of Economy, Tourism and Sports, the Slovenia Outdoor Association and the Slovenian Tourist Board.
As part of the strategy’s implementation, Bohinj is now focusing on improving cycling infrastructure and developing new tourism experiences that respect natural resources while balancing the needs of local communities and visitors.
As Matej Kandare, Director of the Slovenia Outdoor Association, stated: “We need to build sustainable tourism that offers meaningful experiences to visitors while ensuring the survival of local communities.”
With the BeyondSnow project set to conclude in October 2025, RAGOR and Tourism Bohinj are now committed to putting these strategies into practice, ensuring that the region moves towards a more resilient and sustainable future.
