Cross-Border Heritage Routes and Areas: An Important Element of Regional Sustainable Tourism

Throughout Europe, there is now a strongly developed network of routes mapped based on rich cultural and natural heritage. Some of them have an international, supra-regional dimension, and their importance and involvement in the formation of European identity have been recognized by many international organizations. Cross-border tourist routes (both natural and cultural) are the basis for building contemporary heritage tourism based on cooperation and sustainable development of the entire region. This is especially true for sites that are located in marginal areas, far from major tourist centers. Joint ventures and planned management of shared heritage spaces are a great challenge for modern tourism and are an important element for regional development. This chapter explores the significance of cross-border heritage routes and areas as key components of regional sustainable tourism. The study focuses on the South Baltic Sea area, with specific attention given to several prominent routes, such as the Griffins’ Route, European Route of Brick Gothic, and Klosterland Route. The main objectives of this research are to examine the impact of cross-border heritage routes and areas on regional sustainable tourism, analyze their potential for fostering cultural exchange and economic development, and propose strategies for enhancing their effectiveness.