Culinary Heritage Routes as a Part of Regional Identity and Original Tourist Product
Purpose: This paper seeks to explore the role of culinary heritage routes as an integral part of regional tourism development. Specifically, it examines how these routes contribute to the regional identity and serve as a tool for economic diversification. Design/Methodology/Approach: By reviewing case studies and existing literature, this study aims to illustrate the potential of culinary routes to enhance regional attractiveness and foster sustainable development, ultimately positioning them as a valuable asset within the broader context of cultural tourism. Findings: Through strategic branding, experiential offerings, and active community involvement, culinary routes have established themselves as valuable tourism products that contribute to regional economic resilience, cultural preservation, and sustainable tourism practices. Practical Implications: Research has a very strong translation into practical application. With such indications, further interpretive activities can be planned, especially in places that need additional attention, are less well known and face the problem of undertourism. Originality/Value: The article presents the results of own desk research. The issue presented has not previously been addressed in discussions published internationally.