REPORT of Threet STUDY VISIT No. 1 08‐11 April 2019 GERMANY/Mittelhessen

Home , Dill (river), Driedorf, Giessen (district), Weilburg, Weil (river)

PGI05391 Thematic Trail Trigger Mod. 5B‐3T‐13 STUDY VISIT REPORT – SV 1

REPORT of ThreeT STUDY VISIT No. 1 08‐11 April 2019 GERMANY/Mittelhessen

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Table of Contents:

Overview of the Study Visit 3 Workshop Session in Day 3 8 Study Visit Feedback Forms 13 Recommendations for Tutoring Sessions and Policy Learning Platform 32 Recommendations about future Study Visit organisation 34

APPENDIX Agenda of the Study Visit List of participants with signatures (for each day of the SV) Logistic note of the Study Visit Photos and videos PPT presentations, other complementary materials to GP filled forms Statistical proceedings from 2.2 and 2.3 above Template of SV feedback form

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1) Overview of the Study Visit

From 08. April (arrival) to 11. April (departure) the first Study Visit of the Interreg Europe Project Threet took place in the region of Mittelhessen (Central Hesse). After the local stakeholder group compiled 10 good prac‐ tices for Thematic Trails in the region in December 2018, the German partner, the Regional Management Mittelhessen proposed five good practices via E‐Mail. The ThreeT partner chose three of them to visit in Germany: 1. Hydroelectric power plant chain „Rehbachtal“ and energy educational trail „Water, wind and sun“ 2. River Lahn Trails (Hiking, Cycling, Water hiking, connected by train) 3. Volcano bike trail + Vogelsberg volcano express bus

We chose Giessen as a home base for the study visit because of the accommodation offer and due to its cen‐ tral location. On the arrival day there was a voluntarily social diner in a restaurant with typical local speciali‐ ties. After the two days of visiting the three Good Practices a workshop took place, where the ThreeT part‐ ners and the local stakeholders evaluated the visit and the three trails.

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Day 1 – Good practice 1: Hydroelectric power plant chain „Rehbachtal“ and energy educa‐ tional trail „Water, wind and sun“

The trails begins at the Krombachtalsperre (artificial reservoir) where the river Rehbach starts, which the trail is following. The group partially walked and drove by bus and we visited the historic but active power plant Merkenbach which is the last one in the power plant chain. At the trail there are signposts with QR codes, which tell about the nature, the solar and the wind power and the water power. We were guided by the in‐ ventor of the trail, Bruno Weil. After arriving in the city of Herborn we had a lunch in the restaurant Gutshof, where we took a group photo and we were welcomed by the mayor of Driedorf and an employee of the Tourist‐Information of Herborn.

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Day 1 – Good Practice 2: River Lahn Trails (Hiking, Cycling, Water hiking, connected by train). Our guide, Michael Volkwein, came in the bus and first we had a stop at a local small mineral water company where we had a tasting. Our second stop was in the historic residence town of Weilburg, where the Lahn makes a loop around a huge rock. Tourist and Geopark representatives told us about the connected trails and we watched the unique collection of three tunnels through the rock: road, train and the shipping tunnel, where we could operate the lock ourselves.

The third and last stop was the visitor mine ‘Grube Fortuna’ where the group was split in two: One part visit‐ ed the mine in a guided tour and saw how the ore was was mined and the other part walked on the above ground miner's route. In the end we had a social dinner in the mine’s restaurant called Zechenhaus.

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Day 2 – Good Practice 3: Volcano bike trail + Vogelsberg volcano express bus On the second day we started with a bus tour on one of the highest mountain of Mittelhessen, the Hoherod‐ skopf for the third good practice, the Volcano bike trail and the Vogelsberg volcano express bus. This place is being marketed as ‘adventure mountain’ and has a joint information centre of the tourist information, the geopark and the nature park. We were welcomed by the local stakeholders and the mayor of the city of Hungen, Ms. Schaab:

The Vogelsberg mountain is the largest volcano in the central Europe and is a rural touristic region. After vis‐ iting the information centre we take a look on the infrastructure for this heavily visited tourist attraction, the trails of the Geopark and the outlooks in the Mittelhessen region. After walking a short track we met the Vol‐ cano Express, a bus with a trailer for the bikes which carries the tourists on the mountain tracks, for instance the Volcano bike trail. With this bus the group drove to the city centre of Hungen, where the new Science Centre ‘Vulkaneum’ informs about the the region and its particularities. It was very impressive how the dif‐ ferent institutions work together hand in hand in developing the region. We had a guided tour through the Vulkaneum by local stakeholders and a lunch break in a social café operated by handicapped persons. After that we visited several station of the Volcano bike trail which was implemented on a former railway line and is therefore not very steep. The tourism stakeholder showed us the signs and the business development stakeholder showed us examples where private investments in tourism took place by laying the foundation through public investment. We were welcomed and accompagnied by the county councillor of the Vo‐ gelsberg county, Dr. Mischak, who showed us a former train station which is now a beer garden called ‘cen‐ tral station’ for the tourists on the bike trail in Frischborn and the Eisenbach castle, where we had a coffee break. On the evening there was a social dinner at partner’s charge in the Restaurant with local craft brewery ‘Alt Giessen’.

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Day 3 – Workshop and departure: On the third day we met in the Conference room of the ‘Alt Giessen’ and worked through the impressions and results of the three days in a half‐day workshop. First the group was welcomed by the district president of the region, Dr. Christoph Ullrich and the representative of the Ministry, Dagmar Meinen, who's been with us all three days, thanked the stakeholders and the ThreeT partners for their interest.

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2) Workshop session in Day 3

2.1 Group activities

a. Working Group GP “Rehbachtal” Manuel informed the group about the Good Practice Hydroelectric power plant chain „Rehbachtal“ and en‐ ergy educational trail „Water, wind and sun“, which leads through the two towns of Driedorf and Herborn. The signposting was co‐funded by the EU LEADER program, and the trail is a GeoRoute of the Geopark West‐ erwald‐Lahn‐Taunus. The participants were enthusiastic about the trail, but also saw some opportunities for improvement: Learnings and transferabilitys:  The trail has a good infrastructure and is very good signposted  The trail has clean structure and good links  Trail is part of the Geopark and combines the energy from water, wind and sun  The topic of renewable energy and the increase in importance in history are very significant  The connection of the (historic) water power plants and the modern plant for wind and sun energy is very instructively  The autodidactic and educational trail concept is very good transferable  The use of QR codes is very good in order to convey information, but needs mobile internet  The ambition and story of Bruno Weile is a very good example how an individual can achieve a lot  You should try to conserve all the knowledge and the storys for future generations  Very good mobility: You have the “blue line” to return to the beginning or the end of the trail by bus  The connection between the both cities, the energy producing company and the Geopark is very fruitful.  The trail isn’t suitable for international visitors or tourists  The trail isn’t suitable for all kind of mobility – is the use for bikes desired or only one option?  Learn how to use an “old industry” to create touristic trademark  old machines get an Point of In‐ terest  way of conserving cultural heritage Improvements and recommendations:  More marketing for the trail in several languages  Promo Event for and on the trail, for instance on Earth Day or Geotope Day  Connectivity with other (related) trails is unclear  The trail misses infrastructure, especially ‐ toilets ‐ possibility to shop snacks ‐ bike repair and/or rental  (More) Shopping options, for instance in small markets with local products, also by farmers  One of these premises could work as an anchor or information point for the region and its offers  Connection with rural producers and their stores along the trail, also as stop points of the trail  Playful system to collect points or stamps – with many or all stamps you get a reward, for instance in the small market or in the farmers stores  The QR codes on the signs in german could lead to English online content, too  Additionally, to the QR codes you could use beacon and near field communication  You could produce an audio guide available on‐ and offline using the guided tour of Bruno Weiel and translate this in other languages, f.i. by students in a practical training  (Interactice) discussion about renewable energy

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 Preserve the lowest lake f.i. by crowdfunding  danger to loose the trail piece by piece

b. Working Group GP „River Lahn“ First of all, Kirsten gave some more detailed information about the Good Practice “River Lahn – Hiking, Cy‐ cling, Water hiking”. The valley of the river Lahn from source to estuary is touristical developed for people who are hiking, cycling or water hiking since the early 1990. It was a success of reusing the former federal waterway – river Lahn was formerly used as an important wa‐ terway for the mine industry. The ore was transported by ships along the river Lahn. As the mining industry was no longer operating, there was the question of how to use the infrastructure along the river (tunnels, floodgates, weirs) in order to maintain them. It is a combination of single touristic sites in order to make an active and interesting experience: Those single sites were linked through bicycle‐/walking‐/water‐trails in order to realise an interesting and variable experi‐ ence, combined with information and a lot of services (f. e. accessibility by trains). The river Lahn valley is for people searching "towns ‐ country ‐ river ‐ charm". There are three main activities – all of those projects were funded in different ways (read more: GP template): A) A) The Lahn Valley cycle route is largely car‐free and leads along mostly asphalted paths through the flat river landscape (opened in 1994, certified since 2003/04). B) The Lahn Hiking Path leads in 295 km over mountains and valleys, forests and meadows, towns and villages through the whole Lahn valley up to the Rhine (opened in 2012). C) Canoe‐River Lahn: Water hiking along River Lahn is possible from Marburg for 160 km until the Lahn flows into River Rhine (since 1982, funding of 40 entry‐/exit‐points as well as resting places along the river 1996‐1998). The river is continuously accompanied by railway lines, so that you can hop on and off the train and enjoy whatever activity you want to do. During the last years, people in charge are trying to expand the tourism in‐ to the side valleys and other areas of river Lahn by connecting sides of interest via bike or walking trails to the main trails. It was a great effort to connect and build up a cooperation of touristic institutions, groups of POIs etc. and municipalities along the river Lahn. There are three federal states involved (North Rhine‐Westphalia, Hessen and Rhineland‐Palatinate). Since the end of the 1980s, the Lahn has been used for sustainable tourism; the existing opportunities are coordinated and expanded by the public tourism organisations. At the district lev‐ el, tourism associations were initially formed, which merged in 2002 to form the touristic destination "Lahntal Tourismus Verband e. V." (Lahn Valley Tourism Association). Thus an overall organisation was formed and was from then on responsible for the internal and external marketing, the organisation of fund‐ ing and the representation in Hessen and worldwide. The structure of the association „Lahntal Tourismus Verband e. V. (LTV)“ consists of the following members:  6 administrative districts/counties (diversion “support of tourism and commerce”)  11 cities  6 sub regions (in total 51 villages and small cities)  3 supporting members (German canoe association, hotel and restaurant association Mittelhessen, Mittelhessen‐group of the chambers of commerce)

The actual challenges along river Lahn are the following:

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 find a solution for a coexistence of nature conservation, tourism, motor sports, sports, recreation, fishing solutions and for all the demands and different interests of those users along the river (EU life+‐Project "Living Lahn")  a steadily ongoing and development of infrastructure  enhancing the infrastructure, service, accessibility and connectivity also along the side valleys of river Lahn  qualification of service providers  internal market entry to inform the local population and attract their attention for recreation possi‐ bilities along the river Lahn  enhancing the quality in total (an overall concept is needed)  ecological valorisation in certain parts of the river

After the clarification of different questions – most of them were about the structure of the LTV and road safety and liability – the group talked about the three main questions: What can we learn from the GP “Lahn”?  Having one organisation is good and makes it easier in addressing and solving problems, running the management and marketing, in total organising such a long trail.  The “drivers” of those projects are the people who are involved – with their passion and dedication.  “Pit Fortuna” was an unique and top experience and very interesting point (real mine), also from the educational point of view.  The river Lahn is very well presented (maps, online, signposts, good places).  The combination of different activities and towns, nature, culture and events is a good example of how to do it. It combines local history and the culture/heritage of communities with modern aspects and activities.  It is a good idea of using the local experience of the people in a touristic sense.

What can we transfer from the GP “Lahn”?  The type of association is a good model/example.  Import is the overall information of aspects of the security (private and governance), for example who is in charge of the maintenance of roads and who is responsible in case of an accident (road safety and liability).  The combination of different activities and heritage (see above) and get the puzzle nicely together.  A selection of local sights with unique experience and with learning experience.

What can be improved by the GP “Lahn”?  Pit Fortuna should be promoted on a larger scale as it is very interesting.  Better communication of the safety aspects and more detailed instructions. It needs a better infor‐ mation of people before entering the mine in order to prepare them for the trip down (f. e. what to do in case of an accident or if water starts rising, how to behave on the train as there are no handles, risks for children should be mentioned).

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 You could not see if there are special events for target groups, like families and children. [The LTV has identified to main target groups: “active nature bon vivants/connoisseurs” and “urban bon vivants/connoisseurs”]  All of the signs and information are only in German.  Lack of charging E‐bikes – there should be more possibilities for charging your E‐bike.  Using more of the local handcraft experience along the trail, for example cooking lessons (as an addi‐ tional offer or create an offer under the topic “water” with tastings of different mineral water, visit‐ ing the buildings).  card for “reduction” along the way or in order to collect POIs

Open questions that arise along the discussion:  How is the road safety, insurance per law and liability organised in the different countries?  How do others cope with rubbish and trash at rest points or in the nature in general? How do you solve the problem of toilets in the middle of nowhere?  What safety regulations do exist at pit Fortuna and what kind of safety requirements/conditions has the management to implement?

c. Working Group GP „Vogelsberg – Volcano Bike Trail“

Learning / Transferability The group discussed several topics about what they learned and could transfer to their regions. It was clear for all that the visit was just a first step which revealed new questions. The group saw this as the start of learning process over all study visits. Main topics of the dicussion were:  How to improve governance capacity for their own region was one main topic among the participants. Governance was seen as a concept with multiple aspects. The group discussed how to set up a strategy for their good practices. For this the group agrees that the support of local key players in administration and policy are important. For this reason it is necessary to create an interest for the good practice among these groups and to involve them. That is why networks are essential to promote the own good practice. It is also important to get new sources for financing the own projects. Some participants mentioned that they are struggling to get fundings for their projects. Beside strategy and networks some participants mentioned a lack of passionate people for the operational part of the work. The group suggested to support local key player and operators which are already active and passionate. But there should be a transparent mechanism or process of support.

 The group was interested if there is a monitoring of tourist flows. Monitoring could help to improve the tourist offers but also to implement the strategy. Most methods for monitoring are surveys on bike tracks and data from official statistics e. g. for hotel sector by the statistics office of the state Hessen.

 Operational aspects. Participants rated the facilities very good and in good condition. Main questions touched topics like responsibility for / ownership of facilities, staff for and logistics for maintenance, financial aspects. Revision Date Page 2 15.11.2019 11

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 Re‐use of infrstructure for new purposes was very interesting for some participant and possible to transfer in other regions.

Improvement: The participants mentioned several improvements:  In general Wi‐Fi quality was not sufficient. Participants see mobile phone as an important device for information and communication with visitors. For this reason it seems necessary to have a good Wi‐ Fi connection.

 The participants wish more information in English. They acknowledged that the space on signs is limited but QR‐Codes or apps could be used as an alternative. They also mentioned that this could be an easy and cost efficient approach to solve language barriers.

 Beside apps the implementation of a geographic information system (GIS) was suggested. For two reasons. First as a supportive tool for tourist management to get an overview about stakeholders, points of interest, facilities and visitor flows. Second as a tool for visitors to discover the region.

 The GIS for the tourist management could also help to build up an extended network for promoting the touristic offers. Participants suggested to involve private partner more in the process of marketing.

The quality of Hoherodskopf as point of interest was not good rated by the participants. A concept for the place was missing. Too many different tourist offers with partly bad quality, too much land consumption by parking spaces, too much commercials / advertisement with no rules regarding size and content. The partici‐ pants suggested to set up a master plan with all stakeholders for Hohenrodskopf to create a common con‐ cept for this place and to set up a site management which would implement the concept.

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2.2 Study Visit Feedback forms 2.3 Recommendations for Tutoring Sessions and Policy Learning Platform 2.4 Recommendations about future Study Visit organisation

2.2. Study Visit Feedback Form

The ThreeT Project Partners and the external experts visited three good practices (Rehbachtal, River Lahn, Vogelsberg – Volcano Bike Trail) on the study visit.

Each participant filled in a feedback questionnaire during the study visit. The template of the question‐ naire was prepared by the responsible project partner for the activity.

This form consists of three sections, first feedback about the visited good practice, second conclusions for recommendations and a final section suggestions for future study visits. The questions revealed:

 why participants believe that the given good practice is successful, and that it has got potential,  what could hinder its transfer, application and implementation in the respondent region,  how to take over and benefit from other projects, and the experiences in case of thematic paths and attractions,  how this good practice can be applied in any way, and how it can be implemented in the region concerned.

The participants could share which methods, researches, and developments have to be completed to implement the given good practice.

Finally, the respondents were requested to comment on the multi‐day study visit, what they had found positive or negative, and which good practice they would recommend for the tutoring session.

For each of the three good practices, the task was to fill in a separate questionnaire section, whose elaborated results can be read in the following subchapters. The completed questionnaire can be found among the enclosed documents.

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2.2.1 GP 1 Hydroelectric power plant «Rehbachtal» + energy educational trail «Water, wind and sun»

Success factors identified in this GP (n 38) Human capital Facilities 3% 5%

Transportation System Natural and cultural 8% assets 26%

Governance 16%

Communication / Touristic offer information (Attractions/Package) 16% 26%

Based on the questionnaires completed in connection with Rehbachtal, we can state that the partners consider natural and cultural assets (like landscape, woods, lakes) to be the most important success fac‐ tor. This is very related to the place.

But after that touristic offers follow as the second important success factor. The combination of nature with the topic of renewable energy, industrial heritage and activities like hiking convinced the partici‐ pants.

The group mentioned aspects of communication and governance as the third success factor (each with 16%). The answers contain aspects of well signing or strong involvement of private partners and citizens.

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Contraints to a possible replication (n 31) Other Human capital 3% Communication / 3% information 6%

Facilities 10% Natural and cultural assets 42%

Financial ressources 13%

Governance 23%

As shown in the figure above and in the answers, the most problematic aspect to transfer the GP of Rehbachtal is the lack of the natural and cultural assets which are very related to the regional context. This is out of the range of the action for the partner region and can be disregarded.

But the governance aspect is an important contraint for the partners. The implementation of a private‐ public partnerships and the involvement of the local community is difficult. In addition the lack of fianci‐ al resources to facilitate the point of interest are not available.

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Relevance of the GP for the Marco-Categories 12

0 Infrastructure Soft-mobility Information Trail management Very Relevant 9 9 11 10 Relevant 87410 Partly relevant 5560 Not relevant 0000

Very Relevant Relevant Partly relevant Not relevant

When examining the “Macro categories” of the questionnaire, it can be stated that the information and communication elements appear the most relevant for this good practice together with the Trail Man‐ agement.

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Transferability Potential of GP (n 29)

Other 3%

Transport System Creating touristic 21% offers 31%

Governance 21% Communication / information 24%

From the good practices presented can be adopted and used in the other projects how to create new touristic offers. This refers especially to the topic of renewable energy and the re‐use of old infrastruc‐ ture like buildings or energy plants.

The second most important opportunity for transfer is the topic communication / information. Signs along the route explain the story of the trail (combining education and tourism).

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Recommended steps to transfer GP (n 24)

Facility Research and analyse 4% data of the site 13%

Improve governance Other 42% 12%

Improve touristic offers 29%

In order to be able to apply this good practice in the country or region of the partners, it is necessary to improve the governance structure. This involves identifying stakeholders, convincing municipalities and empower the local community. After that touristic offers can be improved.

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Actions for Action Plan (n 24) Research and analyse data of the site Other 4% 4% Check legal and financial framework 8%

Improve governance Analyse and improve 25% touristic potential 59%

Most of the answer regarding possible measures for the action plan refer to analyse and improve the touristic potential. The participants see the topic of energy combining education and a nature experi‐ ence as a new touristic potential.

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2.2.2 GP 2 River Lahn Trails (Hiking, Cycling, Water hiking)

Success factors identified in this GP (n 45)

Human Capital 9% Touristic offer (Attractions/Package) Transportation System 27% 11%

Communication / information 11%

Governance Natural and cultural 22% assets 20%

Based on the questionnaires completed in connection with Lahn River we can state that the partners consider touristic offer to be the most important success factor. The visit and presentation of the mine as a point of interest was impressive. In combination with many other offers like canoeing, hiking, cy‐ cling and topics like education or experience of nature the GP has a lot to offer.

The governance aspect was also mentioned as a success factor. A lot of stakeholders are involved, and a good management is necessary to create strong cooperation.

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Contraints to a possible replication (26)

Other Human Capital 4% 4% Financial ressources 4%

Facilities Governance 15% 38%

Natural and cultural assets 35%

Most concerns refer to governance aspects. There are constraints identified regarding how to create a strong partnership and cooperation culture. Also the cooperation in an area with many municipalities could be a constraint.

The lack of the natural and cultural assets is another important contraint for the partners. This is very re‐ lated to the regional context and out of the range of the action for the partner region. It was mentioned that the landscape is different does not allow the same activities. Also the wide scale of the GP River Lahn seems to be a contraint for some partner.

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Relevance of the GP for the Marco-Categories 16

0 Infrastructure Soft-mobility Information Trail management Very Relevant 15 14 10 10 Relevant 55811 Partly relevant 1230 Not relevant 0000

Very Relevant Relevant Partly relevant Not relevant

By reviewing the macro categories, the relevance of GP Lahn is focused on the infrastructure and soft mobility means aspects. The reason for is the offer of many different transport modes.

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Transferability Potential of GP (n 34) Other 3% Communication / information Creating touristic 12% offers 26%

Facilities 18%

Governance 20% Transport System 21%

Partners evaluated that the touristic offers have the highest potential of transferability. The GP has a ho‐ listic approach which combines many attractions and different kind of activities. Especially historic equipment of mining was an unique experience for some participants.

The offer of different soft transport modes (walking, cycling, canoeing) was also an important aspect.

Governance especially the organisation of the destination with an association has a lot of potential to transfer. The association model is seen as an instrument to cultivate the cooperation between stake‐ holders like municipalities or local community.

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Recommended steps to transfer (20)

Improve touristic offers Improve facilities 5% 5%

Improve transportation system Improve governance 10% 35%

Improve communication and information 10%

Research and analyse data of the site 15% Other 20%

The focus for recommended steps to transfer is to improve the governance. Creating an organisation like the LTV association was an interesting aspect for the participants. This organisation allows to man‐ age the network of municipalities, touristic operator and service providers.

More recommended steps refer to analyse the site in order to identify points of interest and solutions to implement GP in existing plannings.

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Actions for Action Plan (n 25)

increase financial ressources Other 4% 8% Analyse and improve transportation system/infrastructure 8%

Analyse and improve Research and analyse touristic potential data of the site 48% 12%

Improve governance 20%

Most of the answers regarding possible measures for the action plan refer to analyse and improve the touristic potential. The partners want to evaluate the natural assets regarding their touristic potential and push the marketing for special target groups. For example, identify the touristic potential of special natural sites and check if it is possible to combine with hiking and/or canoeing.

Second most answer is to improve the governance. Most participants mentioned that it is important to work closer with stakeholders and involve them into the projects.

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2.2.3 GP 3 Volcano Bike Trail + Vogelsberg

Success factors identified in this GP (n 49) Other Communication / 6% information 8% Touristic offer (Attractions/Package) 31%

Facilities 10%

Natural and cultural assets 12%

Governance 17% Transportation System 16%

Based on the questionnaires completed in connection with Volcano Bike Trail we can state that the re‐ spondents consider touristic offer to be the most important success factor. The presented GP was a complex touristic package with various experiences. One of the highlights was the Vulkaneum in Schot‐ ten as a good example for an anchor point for different trails.

The governance of the GP also is an important factor for success. There is a cooperation of public and private sector and commitment of different organisations (county of Vogelsberg, Geopark, RMV, city of Schotten) for promoting tourism. For example, creating one job position for marketing.

The transport system was mentioned as third most important success factor. The bus transport system was highlighted, especially the offer to transport bikes in a wagon.

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Contraints for a possible replication (n 29)

Communication / Human Capital information 3% 4% Financial ressources 7% Natural and cultural assets Facilities 35% 10%

Transportation system 17%

Governance 24%

The most important topics for constraints for a possible replication refer to the Natural and cultural as‐ sets and Governance. Natural and cultural assets are constraints because in other region is a lack of touristic hotspots and facilities which could be used to build up a trail like Volcano bike trail. Governance constraints refer to a missing cooperation between local organisations and between private and public sector.

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Relevance of the GP for the macro categories 20

0 Infrastructure Soft-mobility Information Trail management Very Relevant 18 16 14 15 Relevant 4546 Partly relevant 0130 Not relevant 0000

Very Relevant Relevant Partly relevant Not relevant

When examining the “Macro categories” of the questionnaire, it can be stated that the infrastructure appears the most relevant for this good practice together with soft‐mobility. But the categories trail management and information follow very close. That underlines the holistic approach of the GP.

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PGI05391 Thematic Trail Trigger Mod. 5B‐3T‐13 STUDY VISIT REPORT – SV 1

Transferibility of GP (41)

Facilities Other Communication / 2% information 5% 5%

Governance Transport System 15% 39%

Creating touristic offers 34%

The transport system is the major aspect which could be transferred to other regions. The system con‐ siders all different modes like bus transfer as well as cycling and hiking path.

Creating touristic offers refers especially to the anchor point of Vulkaneum. The modern facilities and in‐ teractive museum approach satisfied the participants.

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PGI05391 Thematic Trail Trigger Mod. 5B‐3T‐13 STUDY VISIT REPORT – SV 1

Recommended steps to transfer (n 26)

Improve touristic offers Facility 4% Other 4% 8% Research and analyse data of the site 31% Improve communication and information 11%

Improve transportation system 15% Improve governance 27%

Participants recommend research and analyse data of their site as the first step to transfer. Identify the existing demand for people who use bikes and combine it with public transport, and the area in which they concentrate. The visitor flows can be visualized on maps to emphasise the demand and infrastruc‐ ture. Then implement a similar system like in Vogelsberg with bus transport in those areas and check the results.

Governance aspect refer mostly on creating networks to improve the cooperation between stakehold‐ ers. Private sector with service providers is an important group among the stakeholders which should be more involved in the governance process.

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PGI05391 Thematic Trail Trigger Mod. 5B‐3T‐13 STUDY VISIT REPORT – SV 1

Actions for Action Plan (n 22)

Check legal and Other financial framework 5% 4%

Research and analyse data of the site 14%

Analyse and improve touristic potential Improve governance 59% 18%

Most important measure for the action plan is to analyse and improve the touristic potential. It starts with identifying sites with touristic potential for a special theme. Then start initial local projects to cre‐ ate new value / points of interest. After that find connection modes to create a touristic package.

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PGI05391 Thematic Trail Trigger Mod. 5B‐3T‐13 STUDY VISIT REPORT – SV 1

2.3. Conclusion

At the end of the questionnaire, it was possible to vote which good practices could be recommended for both Tutoring Sessions and their uploading into the Interreg Europe Policy Learning Platform. Respond‐ ents were able to select two good practices in both cases.

Recommendation for Tutoring Session 16 15

12 12

4 3

0 GP 1 Rehbachtal GP 2 River Lahn GP 3 Volcano bike trail

The partners recommend Volcano bike trail as first Good Practice for a tutoring session and River Lahn as second Good Practice.

Among the explanations given, crucial was the completeness of the Good Practices showing a holistic approach with good touristic themes, packages and facilities as well as good governance. The Volcano bike trail was judged a bit more outstanding than River Lahn. Especially the anchor point Vulkaneum and the excellent cycling and hiking facilities with access to a public transportation mode were highlighted. The partners also emphasised governance of the Volcano bike trail as very well organised.

At River Lahn the canoeing theme as soft mobility mode was interesting for some partners and the an‐ chor point of the mine Grube Fortuna. But for some partner the canoeing theme is not so relevant be‐ cause of their own natural conditions.

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PGI05391 Thematic Trail Trigger Mod. 5B‐3T‐13 STUDY VISIT REPORT – SV 1

Recommendation for Interreg Europe Platform 16

0 GP 1 Rehbachtal GP 2 River Lahn GP 3 Volcano bike trail

The partners recommend Volcano bike trail as first Good Practice for Interreg Europe platform and River Lahn as second Good Practice.

The reasons are similar as mentioned regarding the tutoring sessions. Among the explanations given, crucial was the completeness of the Good Practices showing a holistic approach with good touristic themes, packages and facilities as well as good governance. The Volcano bike trail was judged better than the River Lahn.

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PGI05391 Thematic Trail Trigger Mod. 5B‐3T‐13 STUDY VISIT REPORT – SV 1

2.4 Recommendations about future Study Visit organisation

Notes in order to improve study visits:

 It helps logistically and saves time to accommodate all partners and stakeholders in the same hotel.  It helps logistically and saves time to have a suitable room in that hotel for the first get together and the final workshop. Make an introduction of all participants. There will be stakeholder who don’t know the project team.  If you do not have a central room, it is good to start the fieldtrip indoor at one of the good practices in order welcome everybody and get to know each other.  Introduction of each other at the beginning and name badges with name and institution, county (there will be always new stakeholders)  It is recommended that the partners should read the TCA of the country which will be visited and al‐ so the templates of the GP (send that information also to the stakeholders, who join the visit).  Maybe you can find a way to get the feedback forms in a digital version. That will save you a lot of work.  It is nice to serve “drinks” at the bus and, if the time in between breaks is long, provide some snacks as muesli bars/sweets.

APPENDIX A.1. Agenda of the Study Visit A.2. List of participants with signatures (for each day of the SV) A.3. Logistic note of the Study Visit A.4. Photos and videos A.5. PPT presentations, other complementary materials to GP filled forms A.6. Statistical proceedings from 2.2 and 2.3 above A.7. Template of SV feedback form

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PGI05391 Thematic Trail Trigger Mod. 3C‐3T‐SV1 MITTELHESSEN EVENT ‐ AGENDA

STUDY VISIT n. 1 08‐11 April 2019 FINAL Agenda

Location: Mittelhessen Region / Germany Language: English / German (translated) 08 April 2019 – arrival in Giessen (see logistic note) 09 April 2019 – 09.00 to 21.00 (partner and stakeholder) Study Visit day one: Good practice 1 and 2 (bring walking shoes + appropriate clothes) HOURS CONTENT PURPOSE 09.00‐10.00 Departure at Hotel Alt On the bus: Welcome and information about the Giessen and transfer by study visit and the Industry Culture in (meeting at 8:50) bus to the energy Mittelhessen educational trail (Krombach dam) 10.00‐13.00 Hydroelectric power Visit of Good Practice 1 with local guide and visit plant chain of power plant Merkenbach (Herborn) (guided Including transfer „Rehbachtal“ + energy tour) educational trail „Water, wind and sun“ Optional: 40 min.‐walk along the energy educational trail 13.00‐14.00 Restaurant “Gutshof lunch break Herborn” 14.00‐17.30 On the way: visit curative spring + sample Lahn Valley 1: Visit of Good Practice 2 with local guides: City of Weilburg intersection of the cycle path, hiking trail and transfer water tourism including shipping tunnel

17.30‐19:00 Lahn Valley 2: Visit of Good Practice 2 with local guides including visitor mine “Grube drive in to the mine tunnel (voluntarily) or hiking Fortuna” on the “miners trail”

19.00‐21.00 Restaurant “Gaststätte Obligatory Social Dinner (at partner’s charge) zum Zechenhaus” 21.00‐21.30 Transfer to Hotel

Rev. 4 05.04.2019

PGI05391 Thematic Trail Trigger Mod. 3C‐3T‐SV1 MITTELHESSEN EVENT ‐ AGENDA

10 April 2019 – 09.00 to 18.30 (partner and stakeholder) Study Visit day two: Good practice 3 (bring walking shoes + appropriate clothes HOURS CONTENT PURPOSE 09.00‐10.00 Departure at Hotel Alt On the bus: information about the day Giessen and transfer by (meeting at 8:50) bus to the Volcano bike trail 10.00‐12:00 Top of the Volcano Visit of new information centre and adventure Vogelsberg world (geopark, nature park) transfer “Hoherodskopf” 20 min.‐walk within the nature park Vogelsberg

12.00‐13.00 Science Center Visit of Good Practice 3 with local guide and “Vulkaneum” information about the Volcano Vogelsberg (option to buy local produced souvenirs)

13.00‐14.00 Café CaRe (initiative of the social services in lunch break Schotten) 14.00‐17.30 Visit of Good Practice 3 with local guides: bus Volcano bike trail + station, train station, quarry (part of Geopark),

Vogelsberg volcano Café (LEADER project) transfer express (bus) included: stop for tea time break 17.30‐18.30 Transfer to Hotel

18:30 hrs End of DAY 2 / 19.00 ‐ Social dinner (at partner’s charge) in Restaurant Alt Giessen with micro‐brewery

Rev. 4 05.04.2019

PGI05391 Thematic Trail Trigger Mod. 3C‐3T‐SV1 MITTELHESSEN EVENT ‐ AGENDA

11 April 2019 – 09.00 to 14.00 (partner and stakeholder) Study Visit day three / final workshop HOURS CONTENT PURPOSE 09.00 Meeting at Hotel Alt Workshop with representatives of the good Giessen practices and local stakeholders 09.00 – 09.30 Welcome address by district president Dr. Opening & introduction Christoph Ullrich, Regierungspräsidium Giessen to the participants Introduction to local stakeholders and Project Partner 09:30 – 11.00 Group work – 1x group for each GPs ‐ Q&A regarding visits of GPs with stakeholders / experience holders ‐ Feedback by project partner regarding: Review of GPs visits RELEVANCE MACRO‐CATEGORIES IMPROVEMENTS OF GPs TRANSFERABILY POTENTIAL and exchange of experience 11.00 – 11.10 Break 11.10 – 12.00 Presentation of group work Presentation Q&A with groups and stakeholders / local experience holders 12.00 – 13.00 Evaluation of study visit Evaluation & Discussion Discussion Other questions 13.00 – 14.00 Lunch Break Lunch at restaurant Alt Giessen End 14.00 Transfer to airport by shuttle or train (at partner’s charge)

Rev. 4 05.04.2019

Sharing solutions for better regional policies European Union | European Regional Development Fund

UIP ThreeT - Thematic Trail Trigger Giessen / Mittelhessen - GER

LOGISTIC NOTE – UPDATE (25.3.2019)

Study Visit No.1 08-09-10-11 April 2019, Giessen, Germany

Contents 1. Welcome to Mittelhessen ...... 2

2. Registration and Location ...... 2

3. Accommodation - suggestions ...... 3

4. Getting to Giessen ...... 6

4.1. From Frankfurt - Frankfurt Airport (FRA) ...... 6

4.2. From Cologne – Cologne/Bonn Airport (CGN) ...... 7

4.3 Rent a car (from any airport) ...... 7

4.5. Recommendation for payment: ...... 7

6. Visa Requirements ...... 7

8. Useful Information ...... 8

Regionalmanagement Mittelhessen GmbH Georg-Schlosser-Strasse 1 35390 Giessen Phone: +49(0)641/948889-11

[email protected]

1. Welcome to Mittelhessen

We are glad to welcome all of the participants to the Study Visit no. 1 in the center of the State of Hessen in Mittelhessen. This logistic note should help you to have a pleasant journey.

Mittelhessen is the leading industrial region in the federal state of Hessen, with tradition-rich universities and a thriving craftmanship. This is the expression of the region’s excellent business and science structures. It comprises innovative mid tier companies, applied research at universities and external research institutions, and existing cooperation structures within industry clusters.

Besides the innovative business structure, the quality of life is also very high in Mittelhessen. The versatile cultural, sport and leisure offers make Mittelhessen a region with favourable living standards and a high quality of life. Whether a canoe trip on the Rivers Lahn or Dill, a cycling tour from one historic old town to the next, or a hike in the Vogelsberg or Taunus low mountain range to the north – the region has a great deal to offer.

We hope that you are going to have a great time in Mittelhessen !

2. Registration and Location

Further information regarding the registration desk and the location where the meetings are going to take place will be announced as soon as all participants confirmed their attendency. It depends on the number of participants.

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3. Accommodation - suggestions

We have made you a Google MyMap, so you can comortably browse around the locations and get directions. You can book rooms via Google Maps if you want, too. http://t1p.de/threetstudyvisitmittelhessen We will add more information to this map, for instance the places to visit.

Map of Central Giessen

Accommodations (suggestions) and important locations 1 Hotel Altes Eishaus 6 Hotel Tandreas 2 Residenz Hotel Giessen 7 Hotel Adler Giessen 3 Hotel Alt Giessen (with contingent of rooms) 8 Hotel Heyligenstaedt 4 Hotel am Ludwigsplatz 9 Central Train Station / Flixbus Station 5 Best Western Plus Hotel Steinsgarten 10 Regionalmanagement Mittelhessen GmbH

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Participants are invited to book their accommodation via the websites. Unfortunately, the hotels cannot offer special rates.

1. Hotel Altes Eishaus Single Room: 52 - 75 Euro Double Room: 79 - 90 Euro

Hotel Restaurant Altes Eishaus Wißmarer Weg 45 35396 Giessen

Phone: +49 (0)641 / 389080 - https://www.hotel-giessen.de/ / http://www.hoteliers.com/wlpEngine.php?ID=3245&lang=en

2. Residenz Hotel Giessen Single Room: 80 Euro Double Room: 95 Euro

Residenz Hotel Giessen Wiesecker Weg 12 35396 Giessen Phone: +49 (0)641 / 399 80 - https://www.residenz-hotel-giessen.de/

3. Hotel Alt Giessen – recommended with a 30 room contigent as follows:

Quantity Type of room Category Price 1 Single room (single bed) standard I (atrium) 69€ 6 Single room (double room for Comfort (queen size bed streetside) 73€ single use) 10 Single room (double room for comfort I (queen size bed, streetside or quieter 78€ single use) location) 3 Single room (double room for Superior (king size bed, quieter location) 83€ single use) 5 Single room (double room for Superior I (queen size bed/king size bed, quieter 88€ single use) location) 1 Single room (3-bed room for Superior I (queen size bed/king size bed, quieter 90€ single use) location) 4 Single room (double room for Superior I (queen size bed/king size bed, quieter 90€ single use) location)

Please book with the keyword „AK-ThreeT“ until 01. April 2019 using https://www.hotel-alt- giessen.de/en/booking-request.html - after first come, first serve priciple

Hotel Alt Giessen GmbH Westanlage 30-32 35390 Giessen (Walking distance to Giessen train station: 9 minutes!)

Phone: +49 (0)641 / 39978200

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4. Hotel am Ludwigsplatz Single Room: 85 – 99 Euro Double Room: 113 – 124 Euro Suite: 149 Euro

Hotel am Ludwigsplatz Ludwigsplatz 8 35390 Giessen

Phone: +49 (0)641 / 931130 - http://hotel-am-ludwigsplatz.de/en/

5. Best Western Plus Hotel Steinsgarten (fully booked) Best Western Plus Hotel Steinsgarten, Giessen Hein-Heckroth-Str. 20 35390 Giessen Phone: +49 (0)641/ 3899 – 0 - https://www.hotel-steinsgarten.de/en/index.html

6. Tandreas Hotel Restaurant Weinlounge Single Room from 89 € Double Room Standard from 117 €

TANDREAS Hotel Restaurant Weinlounge Licher Straße 55 35394 Giessen

Phone: +49 (0)641- 94070 - https://www.tandreas.de/en/hotel

7. Hotel Adler Giessen Single Room: 60 Euro Double Room: 90 Euro

Hotel Adler Bahnhofstraße 99 35390 Giessen

Phone: +49 (0)641 / 984470 - https://hotel-adler-giessen.de/zimmer/

8. Hotel Heyligenstaedt Single Room: 80 - 100 Euro / Double Room: 95 - 120 Euro / Suite: 105 - 140 Euro

Hotel Alt Giessen GmbH Westanlage 30-32 35390 Giessen

Phone: +49 (0)641 / 39978200 - https://www.restaurant-heyligenstaedt.de/en/hotel0.html

Means of payment: Payments can be made in cash, by credit card (Master, Maestro, Visa), or via bank transfer

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4. Getting to Giessen

4.1. From Frankfurt - Frankfurt Airport (FRA)

4.1.1. By train: Recommended (ca 1 hour)!

Cost : 16 Eur/pers.

The airport's station for short distances is located in the ground floor of the airport below terminal 1. All announcements are bilingual in German and English. If you arrive at terminal 2 there is a free skyline train and free shuttle. Just follow the english signs to terminal 1 and Train stations. In terminal 1 you can reach the station from the arrivals area. Therefore, you follow the sings towards regional trains.

• Step 1: Frankfurt Airport Regional Station to Frankfurt Main Station by urban railway (S-Bahn) S8/S9 direction Hanau or the Regional Express (RE) with the numbers 59, and 75 • Step 2: Frankfurt Main Station to Giessen Main Station by Regional Express (RE) direction Kassel, Siegen, Marburg or Treysa

Note: you have to buy the tickets at the bilingual ticket machine before the train journey. Specify "Giessen" as destination. If you come with more than 2 passengers a „Hessenticket“ is recommended. • Cost - 36,00 Euro • Up to 5 Passengers for 1 day • Free travel by public transport through the whole area of Hessen including Step 1&2 • Excluded: Intercity (IC) and Intercity-Express (ICE) trains

Check online at https://www.rmv.de/c/en/start/

4.1.3. By Shuttle

Cost - approx. 120 Euro per trip (can be devided by the number of passengers)

This service will take you from the aiport to your location (the address of your hotel or another address as indicated by you)

• https://shuttle-service-marburg.de/en/airport-transfer/airport-transfers (payment via Cash, fixed price as above) • https://flughafentransfer-frankfurt.net/airport-shuttle-frankfurt/ (price online) • https://www.shuttlepool.com/?lang=en (price online)

We can try to arrange the shuttle for you – please tell us your flight number, number of persons and arrival time after flight booking !

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4.1.2. By Direct Bus (FLIXbus):

Cost : starting at five euros, only two connections at 08. April 2019 :

• 15:25 h Frankfurt Airport 17:00 h Giessen Mathematikum (near Train station and most of the hotels) • 22:00 h Frankfurt Airport 23:20 h Giessen Mathematikum (near Train station and most of the hotels)

Booking via https://global.flixbus.com/bus/frankfurt

4.2. From Cologne – Cologne/Bonn Airport (CGN)

4.2.1. By train: Recommended (2-4 hours, depending on the connection)!

Cost – approx. 50-80 Eur/pers. (depending when you are booking)

Booking: • online : https://www.bahn.com/en/view/index.shtml route details : From «Köln/Bonn Flughafen» to «Giessen»

4.3.1. By shuttle

Cost - approx. 270 Euro per trip (can be devided by the number of passengers)

This service will take you from the aiport to your location (the address of your hotel or another address as indicated by you)

• https://www.bettertaxi.com/airport-transfer/cologne-bonn/ • https://www.shuttlepool.com/?lang=en

4.3 Rent a car (from any airport)

4.3.1. Booking from FRA : https://www.autoeurope.eu/booking/index.cfm?aff=fraportageu

4.3.2. Booking from CGN : https://www.cologne-bonn-airport.com/en/parking-arrival/rental-cars.html

Car distances: Frankfurt Airport– Giessen: 75 km Cologne/Bonn Airport – Giessen: 154 km

4.5. Recommendation for payment:

Since 2002 the official currency in Germany is the Euro, which is available both in banknotes, and coins. If Euro is not your local currency you can change in one of the Exchange Offices at the Airport. A minimum amount is required especially for public transport and other out-of-pocket expenses during your stay.

6. Visa Requirements

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Citizens of the European Union can travel to Germany with valid identity card or passport without any special restrictions.

8. Useful Information

Single European emergency number: 112 Water: Tap water in Mittelhessen meets quality standards and is perfectly suitable for human consumption. Electricity: Voltage: 220 V (European standard) / Frequency: 50 Hz / Plug: F type Local Transport: Local public transportation – 2,20 EUR/ticket (multiple routes within Giessen) Taxi/Minicar Giessen : Cost – 1,75-2,00 Euro/km (+49(0) 641 33337)

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For any further information, please contact the ThreeT Team from Regionalmanagement Mittelhessen GmbH:

 [email protected] Regionalmanagement Mittelhessen GmbH Georg-Schlosser-Straße 1 35390 Giessen Phone: +49(0)641/948889-11 Fax: +49(0)641/948889-20

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Study Visit Region Mittelhessen – Learing from Good Practices –

(09.–11. April 2019) 1. day of study visit Mittelhessen (9. April 2019) – Good Practice „Energy educational trail water, wind and sun“ –

(municipality of Driedorf and town of Herborn, Leader‐Region Lahn‐ Dill‐Wetzlar and Geopark Westerwald‐Lahn‐Taunus) Map of the „Energy educational trail water, wind and sun“ in the valley of Rehbach Introduction „Energy educational trail water, wind and sun“ at the Krombach dam with initiator Bruno Weyel

Walking along the trail to the „Wasserschloss Merkenbach“ (watercastle) Waterpower plant Merkenbach Guided tour at the Waterpower plant Merkenbach with H. Henrich and H. Reuker (EnergieNetz Mitte GmbH) Walking along the „Energy educational trail water, wind and sun“ Lunchbreak at Herborn and welcoming by Carsten Braun, mayor of Driedorf 1. day of study visit Mittelhessen (9. April 2019) – Good Practice „Lahn valley and Geopark“ –

(4 Leader‐Regions and Geopark Westerwald‐Lahn‐Taunus) Biskirchener healing and mineral source (industrial monument at the Lahn cycling path and Geopoint, guided tour by Sabine Schmidt) Introduction Geopark Westerwald‐Lahn‐Taunus by managing director Philip Borchardt Shiptunnel Weilburg, explanations by Michael Volkwein (Lahntal Tourismus Verband e. V.) Pit Fortuna (industrial monument and Geopoint) – guided tours „underground and above ground “ „Above ground“ with guide Tim Schönwetter (Geowelt Fortuna e. V.) 2. day of study visit Mittelhessen (10. April 2019) – Good Practice „Volcano cycling path and Volcano express and more points of interest“ –

(Leader‐Region Vogelsberg, Naturpark Vogelsberg and Geopark Vogelsberg) Welcoming by mayor Susanne Schab (Schotten) at the information centre Nature park Vogelsberg (Hoherodskopf) Walk and guided tour through the Nature conservation project and the Nature park Vogelsberg with Hartmut Greb and Christina Plass Ride with the Volccano express and explanations by Kirsten Schmidt (VGO Verkehrsgesellschaft Oberhessen mbH) Visit of the interactive exhibition at the Vulkaneum (Schotten) X Stop at the Volcano cycling path and infomation by Petra Schwing‐Döring (Region Vogelsberg Touristik GmbH)

Meeting up with Dr. Jens Mischak (1. councillor county Vogelsberg) at „Altes Bahnwärterhäuschen – Zentralstation Frischborn“ (café and bar) Visit of the castle Eisenbach and its chappel 3. day of study visit Mittelhessen (11. April 2019) – Interreg workshop with ThreeT‐Partners – Welcoming by the president of the district Mittelhessen, Dr. Christoph Ullrich Presentation of the results of the three GP‐work groups Summarising the study visit by managing director Jens Ihle (Regionalmanagement Mittelhessen GmbH)

PGI05391 Thematic Trail Trigger Mod. 3H‐3T‐2 STUDY VISIT N. 1 ‐ FEEDBACK FORM

This form includes 3 sections (1 for each Good Practice visited) plus a final section (“Conclusions”) for recommendations and suggestions. Kindly fill in the Form during the Study Visit, finalise the “Conclusions” during 11 April Workshop, then hand over it to the organising partner P9 before you leave. Thank you.

STUDY VISIT N. 1 COUNTRY ‐ Germany

GOOD PRACTICE 1 Date of the Visit: 9/4/2019

Partner organizing the Study Visit Regionalmanagement Mittelhessen GmbH (P9)

Hydroelectric power plant chain „Rehbachtal“ + energy Name of the Good Practice educational trail „Water, wind and sun“ Organisation in charge of the Municipal of Driedorf and Good Practice City of Herborn

Key issues of the Good Practice visited

Please describe the success factors identified in this GP visit

Please describe the constraints to a possible

replication, as you may have identified them during the GP visit

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PGI05391 Thematic Trail Trigger Mod. 3H‐3T‐2 STUDY VISIT N. 1 ‐ FEEDBACK FORM

RELEVANCE RELEVANCE OF THIS GOOD PRACTICE FOR Very Partly Not THE FOLLOWING MACRO‐CATEGORIES OF Relevant relevant relevant relevant THREET PROJECT : 1. Infrastructure and service to/along the trail (inter‐modality exchange, accessibility and connectivity)

2. Soft‐mobility transport means

3. Information and communication support to trail visibility

4. Trail management and governance 5. Other (pls specify/Key Words) :

......

Please justify:

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PGI05391 Thematic Trail Trigger Mod. 3H‐3T‐2 STUDY VISIT N. 1 ‐ FEEDBACK FORM

TRANSFERABILY POTENTIAL OF THE GOOD PRACTICE Transferable features / components of this Good Practice

(ex. Transport intermodal facilities)

Recommended steps to transfer the Good Practice to your Region

(ex. Verify presence of intermodal existing or potential connections)

Specific actions regarding the Good Practice, recommended to be implemented when drafting your Action Plan (ex. Check sustainability in the medium term; verify potential cooperation among intermdal operators; etc.)

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PGI05391 Thematic Trail Trigger Mod. 3H‐3T‐2 STUDY VISIT N. 1 ‐ FEEDBACK FORM

Date of the Visit: 9/4/2019 GOOD PRACTICE 2 (afternoon)

Partner organizing the Study Visit Regionalmanagement Mittelhessen GmbH (P9)

Name of the Good Practice River Lahn Trails (Hiking, Cycling, Water hiking)

Organisation in charge of the Lahntal Tourismus Verband Good Practice e. V. (LTV)

Key issues of the Good Practice visited

Please describe the success factors identified in this Good Practice visit

Please describe the constraints to a possible

replication, as you may have identified them during the GP visit

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PGI05391 Thematic Trail Trigger Mod. 3H‐3T‐2 STUDY VISIT N. 1 ‐ FEEDBACK FORM

2. Soft‐mobility transport means

3. Information and communication support to trail visibility

4. Trail management and governance 5. Other (pls specify(Key Words) :

......

Please justify:

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PGI05391 Thematic Trail Trigger Mod. 3H‐3T‐2 STUDY VISIT N. 1 ‐ FEEDBACK FORM

TRANSFERABILY POTENTIAL OF THE GOOD PRACTICE Transferable features / components of this Good Practice

(ex. Transport intermodal facilities)

Recommended steps to transfer the Good Practice to your Region

(ex. Verify presence of intermodal existing or potential connections)

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PGI05391 Thematic Trail Trigger Mod. 3H‐3T‐2 STUDY VISIT N. 1 ‐ FEEDBACK FORM

GOOD PRACTICE 3 Date of the Visit: 10/4/2019 (whole day)

Partner organizing the Study Visit Regionalmanagement Mittelhessen GmbH (P9)

Name of the Good Practice Volcano bike trail + Vogelsberg volcano express (bus)

Organisation in charge of the Region Vogelsberg Touristik Good Practice GmbH

Key issues of the Good Practice visited

Please describe the success factors identified in this GP visit

Please describe the constraints to a possible

replication, as you may have identified them during the GP visit

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PGI05391 Thematic Trail Trigger Mod. 3H‐3T‐2 STUDY VISIT N. 1 ‐ FEEDBACK FORM

2. Soft‐mobility transport means

3. Information and communication support to trail visibility

4. Trail management and governance 5. Other (pls specify/Key Words) :

......

Please justify:

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PGI05391 Thematic Trail Trigger Mod. 3H‐3T‐2 STUDY VISIT N. 1 ‐ FEEDBACK FORM

TRANSFERABILY POTENTIAL OF THE GOOD PRACTICE Transferable features / components of this Good Practice

(ex. Transport intermodal facilities)

Recommended steps to transfer the Good Practice to your Region

(ex. Verify presence of intermodal existing or potential connections)

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PGI05391 Thematic Trail Trigger Mod. 3H‐3T‐2 STUDY VISIT N. 1 ‐ FEEDBACK FORM

CONCLUSIONS

1. RECOMMENDATIONS REGARDING THE GOOD PRACTICES VISITED

Good Practice 1 Good Practice 2 Good Practice 3 Hydroelectric power Volcano bike trail + YOUR RECOMMENDATION plant chain + energy River Lahn Vogelsberg volcano educational trail express Which Good Practice would you select for the Tutoring Session? (indicate 1‐2 GP maximum by crossing the box ‐>) Please, explain why:

Which Good Practice would you Good Practice 1 Good Practice 2 Good Practice 3 propose to be uploaded in the IE Policy Learning Platform? (indicate 1‐2 GP maximum by crossing the box ‐>) Please, explain why:

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PGI05391 Thematic Trail Trigger Mod. 3H‐3T‐2 STUDY VISIT N. 1 ‐ FEEDBACK FORM

RECOMMENDATIONS ABOUT STUDY VISIT ORGANISATION

1. How would you suggest to improve the organization of the next Study Visits? (check all boxes that apply)

Provide better information before the start of a Study Visit (SV) Clarify better the objectives and relevance for the stakeholders being invited to attend the SV Reduce the duration of presenting an individual good practice Increase the duration of presenting an individual good practice Present in more details the operational methods for implementing a good practice Present also any initial difficulties encountered and solutions provided Promote the exchange of information/comments/queries between stakeholders during the Visit Provide more comprehensive information about good practices in general

Other (specify): ......

......

2. Please provide additional suggestions on how to possibly improve the organization of the next Study Visits. The SV hosting partners will be grateful!

Your opinion and advice are important to us; thank you for sharing them!

No name needed. Just indicate: Country: ______

Partner Stakeholder

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