What Motivates the Rural Tourist

Rural tourism covers a range of activities, accommodation and entertainment services that showcase the natural, scenic and cultural heritage of the countryside.

There are different kinds of activities and motivations that bring tourists to these regions of our country.

Cultural tourism

Culture is one of the most important motivations associated with tourism. Within this broad group there are different themes, such as history; rural architecture; museums and interpretation centres; crafts; local fairs and festivals; music and folklore; and so on.

Figure: An example of cultural tourism – CoaParque – Museu e Parque Arqueológico do Vale do Côa (Vila Nova de Foz Côa)

Nature tourism

Many rural tourists are looking for contact with nature, landscapes, flora, fauna and terrain. This motivation has been attracting growing interest, driven by the pace of modern life in the big cities.

Figures: An example of nature tourism – Trilho das Sete Lagoas – Parque Nacional Peneda-Gerês

Adventure tourism

Some tourists are looking for more intense thrills and experiences, usually linked to extreme sports. In the countryside, activities such as paragliding, skydiving, trekking, rafting, climbing, canoeing and off-road routes stand out.

Figure: An example of adventure tourism – trekking on the Passadiços do Mondego – Guarda

Health tourism

This is linked to the wellbeing of the tourist, who seeks out places offering specific treatments and therapies. Examples include spa waters, climate therapy and thalassotherapy.

Figure: An example of health tourism – Termas de S. Pedro do Sul – Várzea

Religious tourism

Religion is one of the oldest motivations that lead a person to travel. Even today, places of worship and religious events draw large numbers of visitors.

Figure: An example of religious tourism – Santuário de S. Bento da Porta Aberta – Terras de Bouro

Food tourism

This covers activities, experiences and festivals devoted to tasting traditional dishes, snacks, wines and liqueurs. Wine tourism belongs in this category too, as a more specific gastronomic experience connected with the production and tasting of wines.

Figure: An example of food tourism – Cozinha dos Ganhões – Estremoz