Challenges of Alpine Winter Tourism in Austria

Alpine winter tourism is one of the cornerstones of the Austrian tourism industry. Supply and demand for skiing vacations have increased over the decades, making Austria one of the few countries in Europe to have two seasons of almost equal value. However, tourism in the Alpine regions faces major challenges. If they are not overcome, this will have a negative impact on the national economy, but even more so on the regional economy: climate change in particular, but also demographic changes and higher costs associated with rising prices, are forcing an adjustment of supply. As a result, a shift in demand towards the summer and low seasons is also to be expected. Climate protection efforts, which focus on climate-friendly arrival and departure of guests, must be intensified.