Adventure tourism

Our adventure tourism research aims to build insight into the way in which more active utilization of natural and cultural resources may may contribute to value creation in a sustainable tourism industry.

There have been systematic and research-based studies of quality and professionality in the segment of the Norwegian tourism industry which offers outdoor activities. Through a three-year research project, we have sought to develop a  certification system for nature-based adventure tourism. The key business clusters of Norwegian tourism have been involved in this effort to enhance quality, professionality, safety, profitability, and sustainability in nature-based adventure tourism.
 

Publications

Articles

  • kvinner utandørs

    Can a couple of nights in a tent and around the campfire make a difference for people who are in a difficult life situation, struggling to cope with everyday life, or feeling lonely? A Polish organization is testing out Norwegian-inspired outdoor activities as a form of group therapy. They draw on insight from Vestlandsforsking about the Norwegian outdoor tradition, commonly referred to as 'friluftsliv'.

  • Foto frå utstillinga Grüne Woche i Berlin i januar 2020.

    Western Norway Research Institute visited the International Green Week in Berlin as part of a regional study tour. In an ongoing process to establish a business cluster in the intersection between local food, outdoor activities, and tourism, the institute finds a role in research-based innovation and knowledge-building.

  • Modellbilde av ViteMeir

    Vestlandforsking has assembled a working group of researchers who will contribute to the development of subject content at the new science center ViteMeir at Kaupanger.
    - The researchers here work on many topics that are both highly relevant and suitable for installations and practical experiences with ViteMeir, says Anders-Johan Almås, CEO.