Recreational and active tourism in the Urals: Potential for longevity and sustainable development

Abstract

The tourism industry has a direct impact on social and economic development, quality of life and longevity. Recently, the sustainable development of the industry has been actively supported by the government of the Russian Federation through national projects and initiatives. As the Ural region offers highly favourable location and a variety of places for recreational and active tourism, it is of utmost importance to consider the ways to promote the region as a tourist destination that provides unique opportunities for healthier lifestyles and active aging. This paper considers the existing issues that have to be resolved in order to promote sustainable tourism development in the Urals, as well as shows evidence of the benefits for further development of the territory as a sustainable tourist destination.