In February 2026, two important networking meetings were successfully organised within the framework of the CULTIVINE project. The events took place on 13 February in Lovászi (South Zala, Hungary) and on 18 February in Ljutomer (Pomurje, Slovenia), bringing together key stakeholders from both sides of the border.

The first meeting, held at Kantin Gasztrokocsma in Lovászi, gathered public stakeholders active in wine and cultural tourism, winemakers and grape growers, representatives of cultural organisations, tourism service providers, members of civil society organisations, experts, researchers, as well as digital and communication specialists. The response was very positive, with almost all participants expressing openness to future cooperation.

The second meeting, organised at the Enoteka Ljutomer wine hub, focused on establishing a cross-border network for wine and cultural tourism. A significant number of stakeholders involved in viticulture, culture, tourism and related sectors attended, confirming strong interest in joint development and long-term cooperation.

During both events, the objectives and key activities of the CULTIVINE project were presented. Particular emphasis was placed on building a sustainable cross-border stakeholder network, developing innovative tourism products, reducing seasonality, and helping to create a common thematic route and events connecting the wine and cultural heritage of the neighbouring Pomurje (Slovenia) and Zala (Hungary).

The meetings confirmed that numerous organisations, businesses and individuals in the region are committed to strengthening Hungarian–Slovenian cross-border cooperation in wine and cultural tourism and are ready to actively contribute to this shared vision. Based on the positive feedback and established contacts, the implementation of the CULTIVINE project will continue with activities aimed at long-term cooperation and regional development.

Photos by CULTIVINE