The Vidzeme Planning Region (VPR), in cooperation with NGO Apeirons, has successfully completed accessibility inspections at various tourist sites in the municipalities of Cēsis, Limbaži, and Valmiera. These activities are part of the Interreg Estonia–Latvia Programme’s “Access Routes” project, which aims to promote inclusive tourism for people with disabilities, seniors, families with children, and others who benefit from accessible environments.
From June to September, experts and representatives from NGO Apeirons conducted on-site visits to nature trails, cultural heritage landmarks, cafés, accommodations, and other popular destinations. Of the 40 evaluated locations, 11 were found fully accessible, 25 partially accessible, and 3 not accessible.
The inspections focused on the following accessibility criteria:
- Designated parking spaces and barrier-free pathways;
- Step-free entrances, ramps, elevators, and wide doorways;
- Adapted restrooms for wheelchair users;
- Visual contrast elements helpful to individuals with visual impairments.
During the inspections, the expert team was joined by local tourism professionals, visitor centre staff, and site managers. Practical recommendations were provided to improve accessibility, many of which can be implemented with minimal resources.
Ivars Balodis, Director of NGO Apeirons, emphasized:
“The environment should be enabling, not limiting. Accessibility benefits not only people with disabilities but also seniors, parents with strollers, and others. These groups together represent up to 85% of society. In Vidzeme, we’re seeing genuine interest and growing commitment from businesses to improve accessibility.”
Looking ahead, the Access Routes project continues until March 30, 2026, with several key objectives:
- Broaden accessibility assessments to additional sites across Vidzeme;
- Develop and publish 1–3 day long accessible tourist routes on www.mapeirons.lv;
- Create themed itineraries in both Latvia and Estonia, focusing on nature, culture, and well-being tourism that is inclusive for all travelers.
Ilze Liepa, Project Manager at Vidzeme Planning Region, noted:
“This work has transformed how I view everyday environments. Reliable accessibility information empowers people to make their own travel choices. The routes we are developing will encourage more people to explore, including those who may have hesitated due to past negative experiences.”
This initiative reflects a broader commitment to ensuring equal access to tourism experiences and improving the quality of life for all residents and visitors to the region.
