Sigüenza brings together rural culinary tourism leaders at Discovereat 2026

Over the course of three days, experts from the United States, Italy, Poland, Ecuador, Portugal, Scotland, and Spain will share experiences demonstrating how cuisine, local products, and food culture can transform territories, generate opportunities, and build more attractive and livable destinations.

The program will address some of the major trends shaping the evolution of culinary tourism on a global scale. From the role of gastronomy as a tourist attraction to the building of territory brands capable of competing internationally, the event will also explore emerging concepts such as regenerative tourism, "storyliving," and the creation of experiences linked to local identity.

Discovereat will also focus on the potential of small municipalities to become benchmark destinations through gastronomy. Success stories such as Sigüenza, Ulldecona, Napa Valley, Manabí, Alto Tâmega, and Calabria will show how local products, collaboration among regional stakeholders, and an authentic narrative can drive development and international recognition.

Another major pillar of the gathering will be the integration of gastronomy with other tourism resources to create more comprehensive and memorable experiences. The program will explore the connection between cuisine, historical heritage, landscape, wine, cheese, local culture, and astrotourism, demonstrating that the most innovative destinations are those capable of turning their territory into a holistic experience. Sustainability and positive impact on local communities will also take center stage.

The presentations will analyze how culinary tourism can contribute to improving residents' quality of life, preserving traditions, boosting local economies, and reinforcing a sense of belonging through more balanced and participatory development models.

Alongside the professional sessions, Discovereat will offer an immersive experiential program, allowing attendees to discover the historical heritage, landscapes, and cultural richness of Sigüenza and its surroundings. This initiative reinforces one of the forum's main conclusions: the future of culinary tourism relies on creating authentic experiences where gastronomy, territory, and community are all part of the same story.