• facilitate intergenerational interactions by organising group walks that foster connections between different age groups while promoting shared experiences that reinforce healthy lifestyle choices and help support social cohesion for thriving rural communities.
• engage different discussions (e.g. about community, art, or wellness) among participants during their walks to benefit from social support networks that enhance motivation for maintaining active lifestyles and civic participation in rural communities.
• test AR’s ability to improve the experience and accessibility of walking routes. By overlaying digital information onto the physical environment, AR provides users with engaging narratives that encourage individuals to explore their surroundings more deeply and foster a sense of connection for rural communities.

Activities

A timeline of project components involved:

• recruiting project partners and participants.
• drawing up a project plan and application.
• user research.
• development of AR system/platform.
• creating standard AR objects (3D, sound, animations).
• testing the AR system and platform.
• developing and testing instructional materials.
• organising artistic workshops.
• launching the project’s coordination platform.
• training the AR trainers.
• ongoing project assessment and communications.

• profiling the area for recreation and tourism possibilities from rural-urban opportunities.
• contributing to social bonding and stimulating local people to get outside and exercise.
• maintaining and creating vibrant communities.
• making the landscape more widely supported and attractive.

The facilitation of intergenerational relationships contributed to building robust social networks that are crucial for rural development initiatives. When young people establish strong connections with their elders, it cultivates a culture of mutual aid that enhances resilience within communities. Such networks facilitate knowledge transfer about local traditions and practices while encouraging innovation through collaborative efforts in addressing local issues.

Key lessons

When rural community members are actively involved together in creative projects, it promotes the well-being of the elderly and young people. It develops talent and strengthens self-esteem. In addition, it brings people into contact with others and strengthens rural community networks. This has many benefits for the sustainable development of rural Europe.

New guided walking routes can be enhanced through various artistic elements such as murals, sculptures, and interactive installations. These features not only beautify the environment but also stimulate curiosity and engagement among walkers. For instance, local artists can collaborate with community organisations to design informative signage that highlights the historical or ecological aspects of the area.

Leveraging community arts to develop guided walking routes presents an innovative strategy for encouraging healthier lifestyles among people of all ages. By merging creativity with physical activity, communities can cultivate environments that not only promote fitness but also enrich social bonds and cultural appreciation.

By overlaying digital information onto the physical environment, AR can provide users with engaging narratives about local art installations, historical landmarks, and cultural significance. This immersive experience encourages individuals to explore their surroundings more deeply and fosters a sense of connection to the community.