The Metropolitan City of Bologna, partner of the European project AMIGOS, organized together with Foundation Silvia Parente, two training days dedicated to hiking accessibility to people with visual disabilities.

On 6 November, the 37 participants, including experts, tourism operators and local organizations, met online to discuss languages, tools and good practices to improve hospitality. After the presentation of the AMIGOS project (https://amigos-project.eu/) the professionals explored the topic through direct testimonies, highlighting how empathy, sensory storytelling, and the promotion of autonomy are essential elements for creating truly inclusive experiences. Through concrete examples drawn from participatory workshops and field activities, such as the inclusive excursions, they showed how active listening and the involvement of people with visual disabilities help rethink practices, language, and tools. The result is a wealth of practical insights that encourage overcoming stereotypes and ableism, fostering full and meaningful participation.

On November 9, an excursion took place in the surroundings of San Lazzaro di Savena — a practical moment of exchange in which participants, guides, and associations experimented with shared strategies to make trails and outdoor activities more inclusive, also valuing touch, among other senses, as a key way to explore the environment.

The initiative confirms the commitment of the AMIGOS project in promoting a more aware, attentive and welcoming form of tourism for every hiker.