Rural Tourism Destination: The Ligurian Farmers’ Perspective

Rural tourism is considered a high potential form of tourism, enhanced by the demand for more sustainable and nature-based solutions, able to contribute territory resilience. A rural area not necessarily tourist destination, but it might become one, if agricultural enterprises are willing diversify their economic activities investing in local actors provide active support co-participation. This research focuses on development hinterland, mountainous, hilly areas province Savona Liguria (North-West Italy) order gather farmers’ perspectives about destination development. known above all as seaside destination. In recent years, policy makers have initiated debate with relaunch Ligurian trying develop alternative forms such tourism. sample 32 farmers already proposing agritourism were involved mixed methodological approach aimed at validating interest toward collecting information designing future policies. At first, questionnaire set up panel experts was carried out, followed one-to-one semi-structured interviews, finally Nominal Group Technique (NGT) used identify priorities, strategies, tools. The results highlight willingness invest sector, presence heterogeneous interests, complexity management relationship among various stakeholders. Findings partially explained early stage analyzed area, phase which starting constructive dialogue objective project ideas stakeholders seems be crucial priority taking part study.