Rome, 28 June. (askanews) – Abruzzo records over 1.7 million arrivals and 6.5 million presences in its accommodation facilities, marking respective increases of 8.3% and 2.2% compared to 2022. The data emerge from report “Tourism trends in Italy: first evidence for 2023” by Istat and the Ministry of Tourism, which underline a post-pandemic recovery with figures higher than pre-pandemic ones: +5.5% of arrivals and +5.7 % of presences compared to 2019. In detail, arrivals in hotels increased by 6.1%, while presences fell by 0.2%. Non-hotel establishments saw a growth of 13.9% in arrivals and 6.2% in attendance. In Abruzzo, 65.2% of presences were in hotels and 34.8% in other structures, with 85.6% of tourists residing in Italy.
From the majestic Gran Sasso mountains to the picturesque medieval villages, from the spectacular coasts to the protected nature reserves, every corner of Abruzzo therefore offers a fascinating discovery for tourists in search of authenticity and natural beauty.
In this context, “Abruzzo Welcome” was born, a unique initiative that offers free experiences to tourists staying in Abruzzo during the low season. This project, implemented by the Local Action Groups (LAG) “Abruzzo Italico Alto Sangro”, “Terre Pescaresi” and “Terre d’Abruzzo”, aims to enhance local resources, extend the periods of tourist presence, distribute visitor flows with the aim of promoting sustainable tourism and enhancing environmental resources.
The initiative therefore aims to decongest the high season periods: from 1 July to 30 September 2024, with the exception of August, it will be possible to request vouchers to benefit from the free activities until availability lasts. “Abruzzo Welcome” allows guests visitors to live unique experiences, within the territories of the LAGs involved. All those who stay at least one night in Abruzzo in the periods indicated will be able to enjoy eco-sustainable outdoor activities, walks, excursions, trekking, theme parks, bike, horse, canoe tours, as well as experiences linked to local traditions, agri-food production and typical craftsmanship. The initiative is part of the Local Development Strategy (SSL) of the LAGs, co-financed by the European Community, the State and the Abruzzo Region. The objective is to integrate local production chains into the tourist offer, making them more attractive and responsive to tourists’ needs, also improving the quality of the holiday and reducing the environmental impact.
Thanks to ‘Abruzzo Welcome’, tourists will be able to discover an authentic and uncontaminated Abruzzo, while supporting the local economy. The activities and experiences proposed will allow visitors to immerse themselves in the nature and traditions of the area.
The initiative is part of the Inter-territorial Cooperation Project “Abruzzo Nature Collection”, which aims to enhance and promote local resources and production under the theme “Nature and Sustainability”. “Abruzzo Welcome” represents an extraordinary opportunity to discover the natural and environmental beauties of Abruzzo, offering a unique and sustainable holiday experience. For more information on the initiative, visit the website www.abruzzowelcome.it/
