Portugal

the solution

The potential for economic and social development stemming from tourism is high, particularly because Douro has such stunning natural landscape, world-class historic sites and a fascinating cultural heritage. In order to reap greater benefits from tourism, a greater awareness of the region's unique assets and attractions must be raised. Additionally, a mechanism must be provided to foster collaboration of local governments, business owners, interest groups and residents, which can bring them together to work toward this common goal. Collaboration can increase the positive impact of tourism in the region and help manage the challenges that new development present. Linking conservation practices with local business interests will help preserve the region's cherished cultural and environmental landscape.

the solution

The potential for economic and social development stemming from tourism is high, particularly because Douro has such stunning natural landscape, world-class historic sites and a fascinating cultural heritage. In order to reap greater benefits from tourism, a greater awareness of the region's unique assets and attractions must be raised. Additionally, a mechanism must be provided to foster collaboration of local governments, business owners, interest groups and residents, which can bring them together to work toward this common goal. Collaboration can increase the positive impact of tourism in the region and help manage the challenges that new development present. Linking conservation practices with local business interests will help preserve the region's cherished cultural and environmental landscape.

the solution

The Douro Valley Sustainable Tourism Initiative aims to promote sustainable tourism development and contribute to the region's competitiveness as an international destination through these strategic objectives:

  • Brand the Douro Valley as a sustainable World Heritage destination through innovative marketing solutions and network building;

  • Increase the number of—and length of stay by—conscientious travelers to the Douro Valley;

  • Provide a mechanism for regional tourism businesses to better cooperate to achieve key goals that will increase profitability and manage local challenges; and

  • Equip local stakeholders with the tools to ensure the preservation of the region's cultural and environmental landscape while bolstering the capacity of local businesses to utilize sustainable operations.

EXPECTED OUTCOMES

• Develop a strategic plan for increasing sustainable tourism and competitiveness in the Douro Valley of Portugal

• Hold an international conference on the capabilities of Geotourism and World Heritage to support positive economic growth

• Foster the creation of a multi-stakeholder council to handle destination management

•Develop a National Geographic co-branded website that will provide information on sustainable tourism developments in the north and provide a gateway to Geotourism-related solutions in the future


Project Dates:

November 2009 – July 2010

Project Web site:

www.discoverdourovalley.com
 

Project Partners:


Commissão de Coordenação e Desenvolvimento Regional do Norte (CCDR-N)
Estrutura de Missão do Douro
Turismo do Douro
Turismo de Portugal
Associação Rota do Vinho do Porto
Instituto dos Vinhos do Douro e Porto (IVDP)
Direcção Regional da Cultura Norte (DCRN)
Alto Douro Vinhateiro – Liga dos Amigos do Douro Património Mundial
The National Geographic Society (NGS)
UNESCO World Heritage Centre Sustainable Tourism Programme