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The existence of small ski areas is primarily justified by their social benefits, as they contribute to the socially responsible development of the living environment.
Authenticity, low prices and a family atmosphere make small ski resorts particularly attractive for beginners, families and locals.
Small ski areas strengthen social cohesion and contribute significantly to regional identity and the local sense of belonging.
Securing the future of small ski resorts requires a clear political commitment to social sustainability.
Summary of this study
Small ski resorts play a central role in the Alpine region by creating jobs, promoting regional culture and strengthening socially sustainable structures. Although they are threatened by climate change, economic pressure and increasing competition, they offer specific advantages such as authenticity, lower prices and a family atmosphere.
These characteristics make them particularly attractive for beginners, families and locals. They promote 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 through their social benefits.
To secure their future, they need political support and greater consideration of social sustainability in tourism research and practice. Small ski areas should be seen 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 key benefits of small ski areas go beyond the economic: small ski areas play a central 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 benefits.
- Specific advantages for certain target groups: Small ski resorts offer unique advantages compared to larger resorts, including authenticity, lower prices and a family atmosphere. These specific characteristics make them particularly attractive to beginners, families and the local population (locals). They also offer easier and cheaper access to winter sports activities.
- Strengthening community and regional identity: Small ski resorts contribute significantly to social cohesion and strengthen regional identity and a sense of local belonging. They are seen as 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 the promotion of intergenerational exchange and the creation of an authentic, inclusive environment.
- Need for political and research support: To secure the future of small ski resorts, a clear political commitment to the importance of social sustainability in Alpine destinations is necessary. In addition, the socio-cultural dimension, which has often been ignored in the discussion 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 ecological factors.