Čergov is one of those areas that has a lot to offer – beautiful natural surroundings, a rich history, vibrant local initiatives and the potential for new tourism products. However, for this potential to be developed systematically and sustainably, cooperation is key. This was the main theme of the opening conference The development of tourism in the Čergov sub-destination, which took place on Thursday 14 May 2026 v Torysa Hotel in Sabinov.
Čergov: an area with great potential
The collaborative project to develop the Čergov sub-destination was launched under the leadership of The Šariš Region Regional Tourism Organisation a Prešov Regional Organisation.
The aim of the conference was to present the concept of a tourism project, to promote cooperation between local stakeholders and to highlight opportunities for developing sustainable products. These could, in future, enhance Čergov’s appeal to both domestic and international visitors.
As he emphasised Ing. Peter Halaj, Executive Director of OOCR Šariš Region:
„Čergov is an area with significant natural, cultural and historical potential. If we are to develop this potential systematically, we need cooperation between local authorities, tourism organisations, experts and local initiatives. This conference is intended to be a forum where these links can be strengthened.“
Specialist topics and practical experience
The conference programme featured a number of specialist presentations focusing on tourism in Upper Zemplín and Šariš, destination management, activities in the Prešov Region, the development of the town of Sabinov, climate change, and examples of good practice directly from the Čergov mountain range.
The opening session focused on the broader context of tourism development in Upper Zemplín and Šariš. After welcoming the participants, the Vice-Chair of the Prešov Self-Governing Region took the floor PhDr. Jozef Kanuščák, MBA. This was followed by presentations on the activities KOCR Prešov Region, activities OOCR Šariš Region and practical experience of destination management, as presented by OOCR Horný Zemplín.
The second session focused more on the Čergov sub-destination itself. Discussions centred on the development of tourism in the context of the planned Strategy for Sustainable Tourism in the Prešov Region for 2028–2030, on the potential for developing tourism in the town of Sabinov, but also on how climate change might affect the region’s future direction.
Good practice straight from the field
The afternoon session of the conference was devoted to specific examples of good practice. Participants were introduced to the activities of the civic association Lipany Fortified Settlement, initiatives Čergov Micro-region, the potential of the villages in the Čergov Mountains, the opportunities for utilising geoparks in the development of tourism, and the vision for regeneration Hanigov Castle.
It is precisely these examples that have shown that the development of tourism does not have to rely solely on large-scale projects. Local initiatives, active communities, the stories of the area and the ability to link existing attractions into a coherent and high-quality offering for visitors also play a significant role.
A common basis for further cooperation
The conference in Sabinov was the first step towards establishing a common basis for further cooperation in the Čergov sub-destination. It is expected to identify opportunities for the area’s development, support specific activities and seek solutions that will contribute to increased visitor numbers, improved service provision and the sustainable development of tourism.
Čergov has the potential to become a stronger and more prominent sub-destination. The key to this will be cooperation, a shared vision and the ability to develop the region in a way that makes it attractive to visitors whilst also benefiting local residents.
The project is being carried out with financial support from the Ministry of Tourism and Sport of the Slovak Republic.
Source: the Regional Tourism Organisation Región Šariš
Photo source: the Regional Tourism Organisation Región Šariš
