Traditions guiding the tourism of tomorrow

Discover the traditional techniques that play a crucial part in regenerative tourism: one of the key principles of the Smarties for SMEs project

Regenerative tourism aims not only to reduce environmental impact but also to have a positive influence on the world around it, and traditional construction techniques perform an essential role on this front.

Tourist facilities such as eco-lodges, farms and agritourism establishments that are built with natural materials and traditional local methods blend in seamlessly with the landscape and help to conserve cultural and natural heritage. In addition, they promote a circular economy by engaging local communities, harnessing local resources and preserving artisanal trades. Growing awareness of environmental issues and demand for authentic experiences means that places of this kind appeal to tourists. As well as welcoming visitors, these facilities actively contribute to the regeneration of the local area and the wellbeing of local communities. Traditional construction can thus become a pillar of sustainable tourism, helping to protect the environment and unlock the potential of local culture for future generations

Craft’s key contribution

Traditional crafts are an essential part of regenerative tourism, with a central role in immersive experiences based on sustainability and local culture. Artisan techniques that have been passed down through the centuries use natural materials and environmentally friendly methods, reducing waste and promoting reuse. One significant example is terracotta. Artisans utilise local clay and wood-fired kilns. The use of renewable energy reduces their environmental impact. Tourists can take part in practical workshops, learning directly from master potters and helping to keep ancient traditions alive.

Particularly widespread in mountainous areas, woodworking is another activity that espouses sustainable principles, thanks to the use of raw materials from responsibly managed forests. Making furniture and decorative items from wood not only protects the environment, but also gives visitors the chance to discover traditional techniques, during visits to workshops and live demonstrations. Craft-based tourism thus fosters sustainable local economies, raising awareness among travellers about the importance of responsible production and strengthening the ties between culture, nature and host communities.

Water resources

The wealth of knowledge represented by traditional water management practices can be put to fresh use today in sustainable tourism. Ancient civilisations found ingenious ways to preserve this precious resource, such as collecting rainwater in stone basins in Sicily, and the Persian qanats that can still be seen in various parts of the Mediterranean. Similar methods are now found in many eco-sustainable tourist facilities. There are agritourism establishments that have cisterns for harvesting rainwater and eco-lodges with drip irrigation systems inspired by traditional hydraulic engineering, while villages make old aqueducts into cultural attractions.

As well as reducing water waste, introducing these techniques in tourism offers visitors an educational experience that helps to teach them about sustainable management of natural resources. Consequently, in addition to preserving the past, tourism promotes the spread of good practices, raises awareness among visitors, and champions a regenerative model that protects the environment and strengthens local identities.