Local accommodation as an ecosystem for the regeneration of rural territories: the municipality of Vila de Rei
Abstract
In Portugal, tourism has established itself as a strategic sector of the economy, playing a significant role in diversifying supply, creating jobs, and enhancing heritage value. Local Accommodation (AL) has contributed to housing regeneration, particularly in municipalities with low population density. This research analyzes AL as an ecosystem for the regeneration of rural territories, highlighting responsible practices that benefit local communities. The study focuses on the municipality of Vila de Rei (Central Region of Portugal) as a representative case where AL has driven new forms of hospitality and heritage enhancement. A mixed methodology (qualitative and quantitative) was adopted, using structured questionnaires applied to AL agents and semi-structured interviews with municipal tourism technicians, as well as a literature review. The results show that AL establishments, when framed within responsible tourism practices, play a structuring role in territorial development, contributing to economic dynamism through income diversification, stimulation of local commerce, strengthening of social cohesion, and preservation of cultural landscapes. However, collaborative governance mechanisms are not yet fully consolidated. It is concluded that Local Accommodation constitutes an effective ecosystem for territorial regeneration in rural contexts. The study offers an integrated analytical framework that articulates territorial regeneration, hospitality, and responsible tourism, providing a guiding basis for public policies and strategic management of Local Accommodation.
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