Tourism routes as a tool for the economic development of rural areas - vibrant hope or impossible dream?

Both eulogised and reviled as a development option, rural tourism is increasingly viewed as a panacea, increasing the economic viability of marginalised areas, stimulating social regeneration and improving the living conditions of rural communities. Less developed countries, afflicted by debilitating rural poverty, have considerable potential in attracting tourists in search of new, authentic experiences in areas of unexploited natural and cultural riches. This paper argues. that the clustering of activities and attractions, and the development of rural tourism routes, stimulates co-operation and partnerships between local areas. Meaningful community participation, together with public sector support, presents opportunities for the development of small-scale indigenous tourism projects in less developed areas. This paper interrogates the development of rural tourism routes in South Africa and highlights factors critical to its success. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.