The overall objective of the TOP_PLUSZ-6.1.4-23-BA2-2024-00002 project is to enhance the region’s appeal for active tourism. In addition to developing the network of tourist routes and related infrastructure, the goal—through cooperation between the towns of Siklós and Villány—is to build a planned observation deck, designate new recommended hiking trails, develop an educational trail, and create various experiential elements, to attract as many tourists as possible to the region, encourage them to stay longer, enhance the area’s reputation as a tourist destination, and expand the range of tourist offerings.
The main objective of the project is to showcase the area’s natural assets, thereby contributing to the sustainable growth and diversification of tourism in the region. Among the sub-objectives, the highest priority is given to making the most of the region’s unique natural features and introducing them to visitors, as well as creating attractions that appeal to nature lovers and active tourists. Through the networked development of the relevant Blue Trail hiking route, both the active tourism infrastructure and the appeal of the Pécs-Villány tourism destination—designated by the government as being of national significance—will be enhanced.
The planned developments will affect several stops located in the towns of Siklós and Villány, as well as in the surrounding areas. The Blue Trail hiking route affected by the development is located within the Pécs-Villány priority tourism destination, which is a programmable active tourism network of national significance.
What are they implementing, and where?
Target area: The towns of Siklós and Villány and their surrounding areas, particularly along the blue-marked hiking trail network.
Focus: developing active tourism and expanding hiking trails and tourism infrastructure.
Project completion date: April 30, 2028
Main activities:
- Development of the Blue Trail hiking network and improvement of related infrastructure.
- Construction of a new lookout tower in the Villány area (Fekete-hegyi Lookout Tower) and the designation of a new hiking trail.
- Development of the Csodabogyó Nature Trail and its partial expansion with digital content in Siklós.
- Development of rest areas (benches, tables, rain shelters, fire pits, restrooms).
- Design of a forest playground
- Installation of informational and educational signs; content development.
- Installation of traffic counting devices to measure visitor numbers.
- Developing hiking itineraries and strengthening regional cooperation.
- With regard to Siklós, the development of the Csodabogyó Nature Trail, converting it into a digital nature trail, showcasing and promoting natural values, renewing the current nature trail signs, and installing new nature trail signs in the eastern section of the trail.
- A new lookout tower in Villány – Construction of the Fekete-hegyi Lookout Tower. Designation of a new hiking trail leading to the lookout tower.
- Developing the hike around Black Mountain as a main route and a recommended hiking itinerary.
Who's doing it?
Beneficiary: Baranya County Government
Project partners:
- Municipality of Siklós
- Municipality of Villány
- Mecsekerdő, Inc.
- Baranya County Development Agency Nonprofit Ltd.
Expectations and adaptation:
As a result of these developments, the region’s tourism infrastructure will improve, visitor numbers will increase, and the region’s role in tourism will be strengthened. The project contributes to the expansion of active tourism and nature-based experiences, as well as to the sustainable use of natural resources.
The program aligns with the objectives of TOP Plus, particularly with regard to enhancing tourism appeal and strengthening regional cooperation.
Financial frameworks
Total eligible cost: 500,000,000 HUF
