The Role of Nature Sports Guides to Sustainable Local Development

Abstract

The overall aim of this case study was to understand the role of nature sports guides in promoting sustainable local development. The study adopted a qualitative and descriptive case study approach. Data was collected from participant observation in one nature sports tourism company established in the area of Coimbra region in the centre of Portugal, as well as in-depth semi-structured qualitative interviews applied to a sample of 30 nature sports guides working in nature sports tourism companies, established in the same region. The data collected from both participant observation and interviews were analysed through categorical content analysis. The findings reveal that the nature sports guides have already adopted certain sustainability practices in the analysed dimensions. However, the greatest focus of the nature sports guides is the instrumental role. Findings of this study are important for both the industry and academy and some strategies will be discussed so that the great potential of nature sports for the promotion of sustainable local development can be reached.