Mountain winter tourism, which has long relied on stable snow conditions, faces growing uncertainty due to climate change: mountains warm faster and more intensely than lowlands areas. Over the last 50 years, the average temperature in the Pyrenees has risen by 30% (1.2°C) more than the global average (0.85°C). In addition, without snowmaking, 53% of Europe’s 2,234 ski resorts would face serious risks to their operations if temperatures increase by 2°C. This figure would rise to 98% if the temperatures were to increase by 4ºC. This uncertainty has sparked discussions on how to adapt and rethink tourism strategies to ensure the long-term sustainability of mountain destinations.
At the same time, the growing demand for year-round nature and outdoor experiences presents an opportunity for mountain areas to position themselves as attractive destinations beyond the winter season. However, for this shift to be successful, it requires careful planning, investment and collaboration among a wide range of stakeholders.
The first session of the MountResilience Community of Practice on Climate Change Adaptation will explore how different regions are beginning to work on the transition to alternative tourism models. The session will look at real-life examples and provide insights from EU projects supporting this transition, the challenges they face, and the lessons learned. It aims to be an opportunity to exchange knowledge and discuss good practices for more sustainable tourism in mountain areas.
More information coming soon
