Historically, for the first time in Slovakia – in the village of Podkylava in the region of Myjavské kopanice – the General Assembly of the European Federation of Rural Tourism – Rural Tour took place. The President of the Rural Tour, Agnė
23 May 2025
Tourism | Ministry | Press releases
Historically, for the first time in Slovakia – in the village of Podkylava in the region of Myjavské kopanice – the General Assembly of the European Federation of Rural Tourism – Rural Tour took place. The President of the Rural Tour, Agnė Vaitkuvienė, and the Secretary General, Klaus Ehrlich, as well as representatives of the member countries of the federation and Slovak actors operating in the field of rural tourism, were personally welcomed by the State Secretary for Tourism, Martin Krnáč. He emphasized the historical importance of the event not only for Slovakia as the host country, but also for the professional community, as for the first time a representative of the Slovak Republic was elected Vice-President of this important European organization. It was the chairwoman of the Slovak Association of Rural Tourism and Agrotourism, Ivana Juráčková.
"One of the main priorities of our ministry in the field of tourism is the development of rural tourism. Slovakia can be attractive for both domestic and foreign visitors, especially for its distinctive agritourism, which offers authentic experiences, a traditional way of life and the beauty of our nature. It is this segment that has a huge potential to support the development of economically more backward regions and contribute to their prosperity," said the State Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Sport.
The gala evening also included the handing over of commemorative letters from the Minister of Tourism and Sports Rudolf Huliak to the President and Secretary General of the Rural Tour as an expression of gratitude and appreciation for their long-term support of Slovakia in the development of rural tourism.
"It was an honor and a pleasure to welcome you to Slovakia, in the heart of Europe, on the occasion of the General Assembly of the Rural Tour 2025. I especially appreciate the presence of all those who measured the journey from abroad to meet here – in the picturesque Podkylava –discussed, discussed and sought a common direction for the future of rural tourism," added Martin Krnáč, who represented the minister.
The main points of the General Assembly of the Rural Tour 2025 focused on key topics related to the future of rural tourism in Europe. Delegates discussed strategies for sustainable development that take into account the need to protect the natural and cultural heritage of the countryside. Particular attention was paid to the sharing of good practices and innovations among member countries, which can serve as examples for development in other regions.
The discussions also addressed current challenges such as insufficient infrastructure, the need for effective marketing and the growing importance of digitalisation in rural tourism. An important part of the program was also a discussion on the possibilities of financing and political support at the national and European level, which are necessary for the long-term and stable development of this segment.
The event was held in the spirit of cooperation, exchange of experience and strengthening the position of the Slovak countryside in the European tourist area.
Ministry of Tourism and Sport of the Slovak Republic
media@mincrs.sk