The GeoNet project promotes training programmes for guides and operators in the participating areas, to ensure that visitors are guided safely and competently around cross-border geosites. The courses are rolled out progressively throughout the project, in line with the needs of the various sites and areas.

The first course to be launched is the ‘Mining Tourism Operator’ course, dedicated to the Kreas Mining Park and the Gula Mines in Valsesia. The course equips participants with the skills needed to safely guide visitors around mining sites, combining theoretical training, health and safety at work, and knowledge of geology and local history.

The course, which is free of charge and funded by the Interreg Italy-Switzerland project, comprises a total of 76 hours of distance learning, classroom-based lessons in Alagna Valsesia and fieldwork at the mining sites, with the current intake running from May to July 2026.

GeoNet supports initiatives aimed at the maintenance, protection and enhancement of geological sites, many of which currently lack structured management or adequate signage. The aim is to make these sites safer, more recognisable and more accessible, including through the adoption of shared standards.

A collection of 100 monographic fact sheets dedicated to the geological sites in the cross-border area, designed as a tool for learning and public outreach. The monographs will soon be updated and made available.

GeoNet brings Alpine geodiversity directly to students and local communities through field trips that allow participants to experience a blend of science, nature and the exploration of the local area. The first excursions already have 1,350 children signed up, who will visit sites in Valsesia and Val d’Ossola: Alagna-Kreas, Crodo-Uriezzo and the Geolab in the Val Grande National Park, in Vogogna.

Alongside the school trips, there will also be an outing dedicated to older people, to broaden awareness of the geological heritage amongst different groups. This is just the first series of activities: the project envisages a gradual expansion of the programme, with new itineraries and new participants joining in the coming months.

An integrated promotional strategy that brings together geological sites, accommodation providers, guides and local food and wine, with joint packages linking Italy and Switzerland. The aim is to spread tourism more evenly throughout the year and strengthen collaboration between operators in the regions involved.

To build this network, a dedicated page will be set up where interested accommodation providers and operators can apply by submitting their details [→ registration form link]. Cross-promotion between partners will also take place online, through shared posts on social media, cross-referenced QR codes and reciprocal links on their respective websites.

Multilingual materials, plain language and digital tools designed to make the geological heritage accessible to everyone, including people with mobility or sensory impairments. Among the planned initiatives is a multisensory immersive room that allows visitors to relive the experience of visiting the geological sites through augmented reality. Further information will be available shortly.