Case studies on cultural heritage, natural heritage and sustainability

Two teams of students with 4 participants each have been formed at each of the two institutions (FH Burgenland and the University “St. Kliment Ohridski” – Bitola). The teams of students consist of: Bucakli Ece, Iqbal Aqip, Trukesitz Sabine and Xu Lu (FH Burgenland) and Sofija Treneska, Marija Gjoreska, Petar Gjokov and Vlatko Spasevski (University “St. Kliment Ohridski” – Bitola). Through the use of COIL (Collaborative Online International Learning) the teams of students are preparing 2 case studies related to sustainable tourism development around Lake Ohrid (North Macedonia) and Lake Neusiedl (Austria).

The aim is to strengthen the awareness and skills of students with regard to the proactive implementation of sustainable tourism practices in the two regions. Beforehand, the students were provided with a questionnaire that they had to answer in order to determine their awareness of the extent to which sustainability is embedded in their curricula. For the preparation of the case studies the students were provided with the results of the comparative desk research at the two institutions as well as the results of the conducted interviews with the regional tourism developers in the two regions. The process of preparing the case studies involves developing 2 tourism programmes for selected target markets: Cultural heritage and sustainability (case study 1) and nature heritage and sustainability (case study 2).

The first online meeting was held on March 19 where the participants introduced themselves and got familiar with their project activities, roles and work assignments. On April 23 the interim project meeting was held where the participants presented their progress within the case studies, exchanged knowledge and gained experience. Questions were asked on both sides about the difficulties and specifics of research activities for the case studies. The results will be presented and discussed in a joint online teaching unit. In the end the students will be evaluated to determine the extent to which the participants’ skills and competencies in the field of sustainable tourism have been deepened.

Case Study: Sustainable Cultural Heritage Tour – Lake Ohrid, North Macedonia

Aim:
The case study developed by students from the University “St. Kliment Ohridski” – Bitola focuses on designing a five-day cultural heritage tour around Lake Ohrid that integrates principles of sustainability. The goal is to offer immersive, low-impact experiences that promote ecological awareness, support local economies, and preserve the UNESCO-protected heritage of the region.

Key Elements:

  • Target Group: Adults aged 45–65 interested in culture, heritage, and sustainable travel.

  • Sustainability Practices: Use of hybrid transport, locally-owned eco-accommodation, and meals made with regional products.

  • Cultural Immersion: Includes artisan workshops (mosaic-making, pearl crafting, paper-making), cooking classes, and performances by local artists.

  • Cross-Border Component: Day trips to Albanian cities (Pogradec, Lin) reinforce shared heritage and ecological responsibility across borders.

  • Eco-Activities: E-bike rides, kayaking on the lake, nature walks to Vevčani Springs, and sustainable horseback riding.

  • Educational Focus: Reflection sessions and heritage talks raise awareness about conservation and cultural identity.

This tour blends environmental stewardship with deep cultural engagement, promoting responsible travel and meaningful connections with local traditions and landscapes.

Case Study: Modular Sustainable Tourism Programmes – Lake Neusiedl, Austria

Aim:
Prepared by students at FH Burgenland, this case study proposes four modular, five-day travel programmes tailored to distinct sustainable travel personas around the Lake Neusiedl region. The focus is on integrating sustainable accommodation, mobility, culinary offerings, and community-based activities, with a strong emphasis on ecological, social, and economic sustainability.

Key Elements:

  • Target Groups: Individual eco-conscious travellers, best agers, young urban couples, and families interested in sustainability.

  • Sustainable Accommodation: Highlighted options include hotels with EU Ecolabels and renewable energy use, such as VILA VITA Pannonia and Boutique-Hotel Nils am See.

  • Eco-Mobility Solutions: Car-free travel is encouraged through use of public transport, e-bikes, on-demand electric taxis, and even solar-powered boats.

  • Local Gastronomy: Focuses on seasonal, organic, and regionally sourced food. Partner restaurants carry certifications like the Green Michelin Star and Austrian Eco-Label.

  • Nature-Based Activities: Cycling, birdwatching, and guided lake tours emphasize the conservation of Lake Neusiedl’s unique ecosystems.

  • Community Integration: Collaboration with local producers, craftsmen, and cultural institutions promotes cultural continuity and community benefit.

The programmes serve as flexible and replicable models to promote sustainability in regional tourism planning while offering tailored experiences to different traveler profiles.