Research Undertaken On The Social Relevance Of Small Ski Resorts In The Alpine Region

Small ski resorts play a vital role in the Alpine region, creating jobs, fostering regional culture, and strengthening socially sustainable structures. Although threatened by climate change, economic pressures, and increasing competition, they offer specific advantages such as authenticity, lower prices, and a family-friendly atmosphere.

These qualities make them particularly attractive to beginners, families, and locals. They foster social cohesion and contribute to regional identity by preserving traditions and strengthening local communities. Despite their economic and environmental challenges, their existence is justified primarily by their social benefits.

To secure their future, they need political support and a stronger consideration of social sustainability in tourism research and practice. Small ski resorts should be viewed as cultural institutions that have a lasting impact not only on tourism but also on the quality of life in alpine regions.

Findings of this study

The core benefits of small ski resorts extend beyond the economic: Small ski areas play a vital role in the Alpine region by creating jobs, promoting regional culture, and strengthening socially sustainable structures. Although they face economic and environmental challenges, their existence is primarily justified by their social value.

Specific advantages for certain target groups: Small ski resorts offer unique advantages compared to larger resorts, including authenticity, lower prices, and a family-friendly atmosphere. These specific characteristics make them particularly attractive to beginners, families, and the local population. They also offer easier and more affordable access to winter sports activities.

Strengthening community and regional identity: Small ski resorts make a significant contribution to social cohesion and strengthen regional identity and local belonging. They are considered cultural institutions that have a lasting impact not only on tourism but also on the quality of life in alpine regions. The social benefits include promoting intergenerational exchange and creating an authentic, inclusive environment.

The need for political and research-related support: To secure the future of small ski resorts, a clear political commitment to the importance of social sustainability in alpine destinations is necessary. Furthermore, the socio-cultural dimension, which has often been neglected in discussions about small ski resorts, should be given greater consideration in tourism research and practice. Accordingly, sustainable positioning should also be based on social aspects, not just on economic and environmental factors.

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