European tourism Gardens of Eden no 23: tourism revivals

Regenerated destinations: new life new tourism new tourists: Latvia: Sardinia: Ireland and Iceland

Ligatne Village (Latvia)

Ligatne Village The scenic village of Ligatne is situated in the north of the country, 75 km away from Riga. This part of the country is often called the heart of Latvia, with its countless legends, cities, castles. In many ways, it characterises Latvian identity. Located in one of the most beautiful spots in the famous Gauja National Park, Ligatne owes its picturesque scenery to the stunning sandstone cliffs on the banks of the Ligatne and Gauja rivers. Magical caves, clear waters and lush green trees paint an unforgettable picture.
Regeneration and revival

The decline in productivity at the mill in the 20th century had direct impact on the village and local economy. An overall regeneration initiative sought to preserve the mill and ensure it remained a working mill. Today, there are various tours and excursions at the mill, where people can learn about the different techniques of paper-making and recycling. You can also learn about the history of the factory, life in the village and the factory workers. Other initiatives include the creation of The Gauja National Park in 1975. The park provides a protected environment for endangered animals, trees and plants from across the country.

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Montevecchio, City of Guspini (Italy)

Montevecchio, City of Guspini Guspini is a beautiful Mediterranean town situated on the south-west coast of Sardinia. It is a fascinating town with an immaculate landscape, warm climate and ancient architecture. In its surroundings the Monte Linas, Mount Arcuentu and Mount Maiori mountains dominate the landscape. Dunes, woodlands and the Mediterranean Sea add to the beautiful scenery.

The coastline is impressive, stretching 46 km, with stunning sandy beaches. In the region there are waterfalls dotted around the town and several forests surrounding it, such as: Gentilis park and Perd'e Pibera park, the latter being the largest park in the area. There are also several interesting places worth visiting just outside Guspini, such as Montevecchio, a small village 10 km away from the city. It is one of the oldest mine sites in Italy, and galena was the main mineral. Today, there is an eco-museum in Montevecchio which exhibits the history of the region, its main activities and the everyday life of the locals. Exploring Guspini and its surrounding areas is truly rewarding.
Regeneration and revival

Soon after the mining industry collapsed, the town lost not only its main source of economy, but its charm. The upkeep of the town centre was no longer a priority and the effects of the economic decline were visible on the streets of Montevecchio. Through the regeneration programme which began last decade, Montevecchio is today a prosperous tourist destination. The mines have been converted into tourist attractions. The old buildings with vast architectural heritage have also been refurbished – and the Art nouveau style of the buildings has been restored to their former glory. For example, the Direzione, built in the 1870s and designed as a managerial house by Giovanni Antonio Sanna have been renovated and open to visitors. A special cultural tour has been designed to bring together different elements of the town: the mines, rural crafts, traditions and residential houses. This integrated approach to showcasing the town’s history has been a huge tourist attraction.

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The Great Western Greenway, Co Mayo (Ireland)

The Great Western Greenway, Co Mayo The Great Western Greenway cycle trail skirts the rugged Atlantic coast of Co. Mayo in Western Ireland. It offers stunning panoramic views over the vast seascape of Clew Bay, its archipelago of drowned drumlin islands, the vast Nephin mountain range and Bellacragher Bay. You can enjoy a wide range of activities when visiting Westport, Newport, Mulranny and Achill Island, such as: walking, golf, sea kayaking on the blue flag beaches, shore and sea angling, fine dining and excellent leisure facilities. The 42 km Great Western Greenway offers an exhilarating and safe cycling experience for all the family with gentle gradients, through some of the most spectacular landscapes and seascapes in Europe.
Regeneration and revival

A decade of community led regeneration was to undo a century of decline when the region’s decaying built railway heritage was sensitively renewed for future generations to enjoy. The former Mulranny railway hotel was reopened in 2005 inspiring a community led initiative to redevelop the Mulranny Causeway and the Victorian walking trails into a high amenity loop walk accessing three European designated Natura 2000 sites. Finally, 73 years after closure, the Great Western Railway Line re-emerged into the Great Western Greenway cycling trail, linking Mulranny and Newport to the Westport and Achill cycle hubs, creating a unique cycling friendly destination.

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Stykkishólmur Municipality (Iceland)

Stykkishólmur Municipality Stykkisholmur is small fishing village, with a population of over a thousand people. It is situated in the west of the island, to the north of the Snafellsnes peninsula. For many years, the village relied on fishing as its primary source of income. However, the decline in the number of scallops left the local economy devastated. To encourage growth, the council decided to nurture a new industry in the village, tourism. Today, after several years of extensive regeneration projects, the village has a new image and agenda. The old houses in the centre have been given a new lease of life, and the locals are thrilled to share their village with visitors.
Regeneration and revival

Throughout the regeneration process, the local council focused on four clear objectives, these were: to protect the local cultural heritage; to revive the historical prestige of the village; to offer a wide range of tourism attractions; and to increase the environmental awareness of locals and visitors. These objectives were met through several initiatives. Restoring the old village to its former glory was a crucial aspect of the process. Instead of replacing the old buildings, the municipality decided to renovate them. An extensive study was conducted about the history behind these houses. Based on this insight, the authorities decided on how best to utilise the buildings. For example, renovated residential houses were converted into guest houses, maintaining all original features.

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SEE ALSO:

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Valere Tjolle
Valere is editor of the Sustainable Tourism Report Suite 2011 Special Offers HERE