In 2016 Pomurje also set up a wide network of local tourist guides as an attempt to make the visit even more interesting for tourists and to show the rich tourist offer of this region by the Mur(a) River.

The selection of tourist guides focused on those who have proper experience and knowledge of the region so that they can present it in an authentic way, explains Barbara Kolenc from the Pomurje Tourist Association for TV Slovenija.

Greater recognition of the region is also being built through new, innovative tourist offer such as the "Vulkanija" (Volcano Land) in Goričko, which has already welcomed 25,000 visitors this year. "The visitors get to know volcanoes, how they function, which types there are, and learn about the emergence of live on Earth and the beginning of the universe through 3D films," points out Danijela Krpič.

Perseverance is key
The Kelih Society, which organizes culinary workshops in Prlekija, emphasizes that perseverance is of key importance in the tourist sector. One of their main efforts is preserving the recipe for the so-called prleška gibanica, a traditional pie-like multi-layered pastry dish. "We've standardized the ingredients needed for this dish, and our next step is to determine the quantities of individual ingredients," stresses the society's president Tjaša Kos.

Lendava the recipient of tourism award
At this week's ceremony in Mala Nedelja, a special jury awarded the highest tourism achievement in Pomurje. The prize for the greatest and boldest step forward has been awarded to the municipality of Lendava.

Vinarium, the highest panoramic tower in Slovenia, has become the third most visited tourist attraction in Slovenia. "I didn't find this project bold at the time. We were simply being professional and we knew what we wanted," argues the mayor of Lendava Anton Balažek. Lendava's next challenge is the ambition to become the European Capital of Europe by year 2025.

P. B., Cirila Sever (TV Slovenija); translated by K. Z.