A panel titled “Gastronomy on the Map: Turning Food into Destination Strategy” will take place during the Green Destinations Global Conference 2026 in Kranj, Slovenia, on October 29, from 11:30 to 13:00.

The session will examine how gastronomy can become an integral part of destination planning. Discussions will explore its potential to connect visitors with local producers, strengthen destination identity, preserve culinary heritage and reduce environmental impacts. The panel will also consider how food tourism can encourage visitors to explore areas beyond established tourism hotspots.

Drawing on examples from Škofja Loka and Bled in Slovenia, Sweden, Spain and Germany, speakers will present different approaches to incorporating gastronomy into destination development and management.

Emma Magistri of the Green Destinations Foundation will moderate the discussion. Panellists include Erik Wolf of the World Food Travel Association; Anna Karle of Gastrofreude Consulting; Valerija Božič of the Municipality of Škofja Loka; Camilla Zedendahl of the Royal Djurgården Society; and Maja Pančur of the Bled Tourist Board.

Delegates can expect practical examples of how gastronomy can generate value for local communities, support destination identity, encourage a wider geographical distribution of tourism and contribute to climate action.

View the full conference programme.