On November 10, 2023, partners from Latvia and Estonia gathered in person at the Smiltene Technical School for a joint meeting on the ‘Garden Pearls’ project. In total, there are 17 partners involved in the project, including 12 from Latvia and 5 from Estonia. The project is a continuation of the previously implemented ‘Garden Pearls I’ project, with a focus on environmental accessibility solutions for people with disabilities.
During the meeting each of the partners introduced themselves along with their proposed activities. Vidzeme Tourism Association, serving as the managing partner, provided an overview of its identity and outlined collaborative project initiatives.
The initial joint venture involves an experience-sharing trip to Swedish Gardens scheduled for spring 2024. From October 2024 to September 2026, plans include FAM tours and participation in fairs. A comprehensive lineup of 20 events in gardens and parks is anticipated, each expecting an average of 50 participants.
Localized training sessions for garden owners and managers are in the pipeline—two in Latvia and two in Estonia—with an estimated 15-20 participants per session. Investments are earmarked for 10 parks, gardens, and nature trails, with particular focus on environmental accessibility solutions for individuals with disabilities. Brocenu Mezaparks in the Kurzeme region is one such area set to benefit.
The initiative further includes the establishment of ten pilots for social inclusion and accessibility, exemplified by Hill Sabiles wine, functioning as an information and education facility accessible to individuals with disabilities. The project’s implementation is slated for a four-month reporting period.
Estonian representatives contributed by presenting diverse tactile and accessibility solutions implemented in Estonia’s natural trails. Personal interactions among project partners and supervisors facilitated the exchange of contacts and valuable experiences.”
The project activities are carried out with the support of the Interreg Estonia-Latvia Program for the period 2021-2027.
Information prepared by Project Manager Vizma Ģēģere, mobile: 29129385, email: vizma.gegere@kurzemesregions.lv
