Within the framework of the HOUSES to go project, the workshop entitled “From value to experience – guest management in a country house environment” was successfully implemented on May 26, 2026 in Ptujska Gora, Slovenia.

The central topic of the workshop was the experiential presentation of rural cultural heritage and the possibilities for active visitor involvement. The participants jointly examined how local values, stories, tangible relics and traditions can be shaped into a complex experience that will make country houses and cultural sites attractive to visitors in the long term. During the professional program, mag. Ivan Božičko, representative of the Tržec Ethnographic Association, and Jernej Golc and Urška Franc, PRJ Halo employees, gave lectures and practical demonstrations. The speakers explained the importance of cultural heritage interpretation and presented methods and good practices that can be used to consciously plan and develop the visitor experience. An important part of the workshop program was a visit to the Starotrška estate and a practical demonstration of living heritage interpretation, which was implemented in cooperation with the Ptujska Gora Tourist Association. During the on-site program, participants could experience through practical examples how personal storytelling, the local environment, and direct contact with visitors can contribute to the creation of an authentic cultural experience. The program was complemented by a tasting of local products, which provided an opportunity to present the gastronomic heritage and local values ​​of the region. At the end of the workshop, participants developed their own interpretation ideas and program concepts in the framework of joint practical work, and discussed how visitors can be made active participants in experience-based programs.

The event contributed to strengthening professional relations between project partners, facilitated the exchange of experiences, and presented new approaches and development opportunities for country houses and cultural venues. The organizers provided Hungarian-Slovenian interpretation throughout the entire program, supporting cross-border professional cooperation and active dialogue between participants.

Photos by HOUSES to go