In the scenic village of Kranjska Gora, key stakeholders gathered for the third Desirable Futures Workshop, part of the Living Labs series. This collaborative visioning event aimed to reimagine the future of tourism in Kranjska Gora with a focus on ski resort, climate change and sustainability. Guided by a methodology developed by the University of Applied Sciences of the Grisons, participants explored actionable strategies that balance economic growth with environmental, cultural, and community well-being.
Local leaders—including the Mayor of Municipality of Kranjska Gora, directors of the Kranjska Gora ski resort, Hit Alpinea hotel complex, and the Sport Institute of Slovenia, joined representatives from Triglav National Park, Slovenian Mountaineering Association, Institute for the protection of Cultural heritage of Slovenia, Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation, and local businesses.
Together, they assessed tourism practices and considered alternatives to the region’s ski-centric model, envisioning a future where the area remains vibrant even with less reliance on skiing. Breaking into thematic groups (economic, environmental, social, political), participants discussed
issues like warming winters, over-tourism, and cultural erosion. Each group identified essential collaborators, resources, and “quick wins” for immediate impact, along with specific action plans to guide future efforts.
Workshop Priorities:
To Retain:
• Diverse Tourism Activities: Develop year-round offerings beyond skiing to boost spring and autumn tourism.
• Natural and Quiet Zones: Preserve natural beauty and peaceful areas for a tranquil visitor experience.
• Traditional Agriculture: Encourage grazing and other farming practices that enhance biodiversity.
To Discontinue:
• Energy-Intensive Snowmaking: Transition to energy-efficient and renewable alternatives.
• Over-Commercialization: Maintain the traditional character of mountain huts and avoid overdevelopment like glamping that may not benefit locals.
The workshop fostered a shared commitment among participants to transform Kranjska Gora into a model of sustainable tourism that honors its unique natural and cultural assets. With the continued guidance of research-backed frameworks, this visioning initiative is paving the way for Kranjska Gora’s sustainable and resilient future.
