Rudi Grula

Rudi Grula, director of the Međimurje County Tourist Board, has been shaping the identity of Međimurje region as a recognizable and sustainable tourist destination for more than two decades. His vision is based on connecting natural and cultural heritage with agriculture, viticulture and gastronomy, creating experiences that offer visitors an authentic touch with the local way of life.

Under his leadership, Međimurje has become the first Croatian Eco region and holder of a prestigious certificate Green Destination and also one of Top 100 Green Destinations in the world. It places special emphasis on the development of the enogastronomic routes, the affirmation of autochthonous varieties such as pušipel, the encouragement of biodynamic and ecological production and the integration of local ingredients into the restaurant offer. Rudi successfully connects producers, restaurateurs and cultural institutions in a unique tourist story. His mission is clear – to offer the guest not only food and wine, but also the story, the landscape and the people behind them.

At the conference Taste the Mediterranean he will share their experience and examples of good practice in the development of sustainable enogastronomy, emphasizing how local authenticity can become a powerful tool for destination branding on the international market.