Date : 27/11/2014

Are you involved in adventure tourism?Take part in a new study and help us to decide where support is needed over the next 10 years.

A new research project is underway to assess the scale and potential of adventure tourism across Scotland. Public and private sector partners, led by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), have commissioned Ekosgen, leading economic development consultants, and the Centre for Recreation and Tourism Research at the University of the Highlands and Islands to undertake this national research exercise.

What is adventure tourism?

According to the recent Global Report on Adventure Tourism it covers a surprising variety of activity holidays (see page 12 of the report). The Adventure Tourism Intelligence Guide describes a huge range of activities from skiing and rock climbing and cycling to nature watching, and marine and watersport activities, with dozens more in between.The research will help to identify areas which are of particular interest to the international market, as well as highlighting opportunities for developing new businesses.

Why research adventure tourism?

Adventure tourism is estimated to be worth around £760 million to Scotland’s economy. With Scotland’s landscape and infrastructure there's potential to grow that substantially.

The most recent estimate suggests around 600 businesses are engaged in the sector in Scotland. This research is a crucial first step which will help shape a range of interventions over the next 10 years, designed to make Scotland one of the best places in the world to do adventure tourism.

What does it involve?

Once we know your field of expertise, the research company Ekosgen would call you and run through a series of questions tailored to your own business specialism.

It will explore the current landscape and the barriers of the sector, as well as the unexplored potential we have in the Scottish adventure tourism market.

How you can take part?

If you are interested in this research or would like to take part in the business survey, please get in touch with Carolyn Bell by email at carolyn.bell@ekosgen.co.uk or telephone 0845 644 5407.

To discuss with HIE, please contact Audrey MacLennan audrey.maclennan@hient.co.uk or call 01463 244264.