IBC Youth Weekend in Pomurje (12–14 September 2025)

Introduction

From 12 to 14 September 2025, the IBC Youth Weekend took place in Pomurje – a three-day event organised by KKZ, RCMS and Iskriva as part of the Inclusive Border Cycling project, co-financed by the Interreg Danube Program. The event was designed as a pilot test of an inclusive youth tour, aimed at fostering social inclusion, intergenerational cooperation, and cultural exchange through an active tourism programme.

The weekend brought together children, young people, and their educators from the Center for Providing Services in the Community Svitanje – Koprivnica (Croatia) and the Strokovni Center Kranj (Slovenia).

Objectives of the Event

• To test a model of inclusive tourism programmes for children and young people from vulnerable groups.

• To encourage mutual cooperation and bonding among participants.

• To enable the active exploration of the cultural and natural heritage of Pomurje.

• To support local service providers and present the region as a good practice example of inclusive tourism.

Programme by Day

·        Friday, 12 September 2025 – Arrival and Chocolate Workshop

The participants first gathered at Passero Estate in Tešanovci, where hosts introduced them to the family tradition of chocolate-making. The children tried their hand at a chocolate-making workshop, followed by a tasting and informal socialising in a welcoming atmosphere.

The group then continued to Hotel Lovenjakov dvor (Hotel Štrk) in Polana near Murska Sobota, where they were accommodated. The evening concluded with a joint dinner, a daily evaluation, and the first social activities that connected the children with their mentors.

·        Saturday, 13 September 2025 – Experiences by the Mura River and Interactive Pomurje

The morning was dedicated to discovering the Mura River:

• Rafting trip down the Mura,

• Arrival at the Island of Love (Otok ljubezni) in Ižakovci,

• Visit to a permanent exhibition on büjraštvo (traditional riverbank protection),

• Demonstration of a floating mill in operation,

• Crossing the river on a traditional wooden ferry,

• Tasting of a traditional snack – fire-baked bread with homemade lard and garlic.

In the afternoon, the group visited the Expano Pavilion in Murska Sobota, where children explored the natural and cultural features of Pomurje through interactive exhibits.

The day ended with free time, which the children happily used for swimming in the hotel pool, followed by dinner, social games, and a daily evaluation.

·        Sunday, 14 September 2025 – Water Adventures in Terme 3000

The final day was devoted to relaxation and active socialising in Terme 3000 in Moravske Toplice. Participants enjoyed pools, water attractions, and slides, while some also experienced the healing properties of the region’s black thermal mineral water.

The event concluded with a group lunch, a short evaluation, and an official farewell.

Participants

The event included:

• Children, young people, and their educators from Svitanje Center – Koprivnica (Croatia)

• Children, young people, and their educators from the Strokovni Center Kranj (Slovenia)

• Organisers and facilitators from Zavod Iskriva

Conclusion

The three-day IBC Youth Weekend in Pomurje demonstrated that inclusive tourism programmes hold great potential for creating positive experiences for vulnerable groups of young people.