The next SCOM partner meeting of the IBC project was held in Apatin, Serbia, on November 19-20, 2025, focusing on the development of cross-border cycling tourism and the involvement of vulnerable groups. The event took place in the ceremonial hall of the town hall. The central theme was the adaptation of cross-border cycle routes to the needs of the older generation and disadvantaged young people, with pilot partners presenting their experiences of testing tourism packages developed in their own regions (HU-HR-SI, A-SK-HU, Hu-HR-SRB). During the day, the TICPM (Transnational Inclusive Cycle Product Model) guide and the challenges of social inclusion were discussed, and the “Social Inclusion Travel Challenge” activity was explained and discussed in joint group work for each pilot region. The first day ended with a review of financial progress, management, and planning for the next partner meeting.
The second day also continued in the ceremonial hall of the Apatin City Hall, where the partners gave further presentations on the pilot tests that had already been carried out. They shared their experiences on how vulnerable groups and local products can be integrated into cycling tourism and presented tested methods for maintaining cross-border cycle routes.
As part of the program, a CROST staff member gave a presentation on the process, expectations, and content of the Handbook. Afterwards, the partners took a short walk to see the city center of Apatin. The event concluded with a study trip to the city of Sombor, where they learned about local bicycle routes and tourism opportunities, and then admired the huge, famous fresco of the Battle of Zenta in the town hall.
The painting depicting the Battle of Senta, located in Sombor, is the work of Ferenc Eisenhut and can be viewed in the city’s County Hall building. Completed in 1896, this monumental oil painting is 7 meters wide and 4 meters high, making it the largest historical painting in the former Yugoslavia.