Abstract
Recreational walking is one of the most popular outdoor activities internationally with studies highlighting the benefits of the outdoors and natural spaces on physical and mental wellbeing. Research also emphasises the increasing social importance of outdoor tourism since the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, a rising demand for walking holidays, and an increase in long-distance trails worldwide. However, this increased demand brings significant challenges with regards to the conservation of these walking trails. It also raises questions over who should bear the costs for the ongoing maintenance and repair. While walkers are considered beneficiaries and user fees are well-established in some contexts, this research focuses on the West Highland Way trail in Scotland where “right to roam” legislation grants free public access to most land in the countryside. This working paper therefore draws on interviews with supply-side beneficiaries, exploring their perceptions on the management and marketing of the trail and their perceived value in paying towards its upkeep. The findings contribute to literature on perceived value and sustainable tourism management in natural landscapes. This study also seeks to provide further insights into the managerial implications for the sustainability of long-distance trails.
Presenters
Jane Hamilton JohnstoneLecturer, Marketing, University of Strathclyde, United Kingdom Samantha Murdy
Senior Lecturer, Peter Faber Business School, Australian Catholic University, Australia
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Critical Issues in Tourism and Leisure Studies
KEYWORDS
Tourist Routes, Conservation, Sustainability, Nature, Interviews, Supply
