Sustainable Agritourism Heritage as a Response to the Abandonment of Rural Areas: The Case of Buenavista Del Norte (Tenerife)

Agustín Dorta Rodríguez, Joana A. Quintela () and Helena Albuquerque
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Agustín Dorta Rodríguez: Iriarte International University Center, Paseo Santo Tomás, s/n, 38400 Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife, Spain
Joana A. Quintela: Research on Economics, Management, and Information Technologies (REMIT), Department of Tourism, Heritage and Culture, Portucalense University, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 541, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
Helena Albuquerque: Research on Economics, Management, and Information Technologies (REMIT), Department of Tourism, Heritage and Culture, Portucalense University, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 541, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 19, 1-22

Abstract: This research examines the ongoing challenge of depopulation in rural areas, focusing on the municipality of Buenavista del Norte in the Canary Islands. The objective is to analyse how governance and local community participation can contribute to reversing rural decline and to identify concrete strategies for sustainable development. Depopulation significantly impacts the social and economic viability of small rural municipalities, exacerbating marginalisation and isolation. The study applies a qualitative methodology, including interviews with public representatives, key strategic sector informants, and participatory group dynamics, to identify projects and resources that could foster local development. A core focus is placed on the integration of tourism, particularly wine tourism, as a tool for economic diversification and combating rural decline. Despite the Canary Islands’ status as a mature tourist destination, rural areas have not equally benefited, with some experiencing stagnation. Results point to the relevance of public–private collaboration, community-based innovation, and participatory approaches that engage key actors from various sectors. These processes facilitate the identification of viable projects and reveal the potential of tourism and sustainable community initiatives to reduce regional disparities. The implications of this research highlight the need for integrated local development strategies, improved infrastructure, and quality public services as essential measures to confront demographic challenges in remote areas. The inclusive governance, combined with strategic planning and tourism-based innovation, offers a viable roadmap for revitalising rural municipalities and ensuring their long-term resilience.

Keywords: agritourism; heritage; rural areas; strategic planning (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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