Increase the connectivity with less-visited areas: The walking and cycling route ‘La via del Riccio’
About this good practice
The purpose of this initiative is to contribute addressing the issue of overtourism in Rome, by promoting alternative options to visitors. Specifically, popular tourist spots in Rome suffer because of overcrowding and other negative impacts related to overtourism. At the same time, less-known destinations, such as the old town of Marino, lack of tourism and are very much open to welcome increasing flows of visitors.
‘La Via del Riccio’, introduced by Circolo Legambiente Appia Sud Il Riccio (an environmental association based in the Ancient Appian Way Park), is a new walking & cycling itinerary connecting popular paths and regional parks (such as the Via Francigena del Sud and the Ancient Appian Way) to Marino Old Town.
The implementation included an online feature comprising a GPS track of the route and a guide to the itinerary, all downloadable for free from the initiative’s website. Moreover, the sustainable character of the initiative was enhanced by establishing connections with railway stations, and the organization of events combining hiking with local food and historical experiences. The main stakeholders involved were: Appia Antica Regional Park, Regione Lazio, local SMEs and municipalities. Multiple entities can be considered as beneficiaries of this initiative, such as the residents of overcrowded areas in Rome (less congestion), and local businesses and residents in previously under-visited areas (increased tourism and socio-economic opportunities).
Resources needed
Human resources for planning, coordination, and organization were fundamental: archaeologists, naturalists, geologists, environmental guides, on a voluntary and free basis, checked the safety, walkability and usability of the trail; technical experts were engaged for creating the digital tools.
Evidence of success
The initiative ‘La Via del Riccio’ contributes to addressing overtourism, providing an alternative to overcrowded tourism hot-spots, and it supports sustainable mobility and local heritage. Specifically, it connects popular routes, diversifying tourism offer.
Since 2022, Circolo Legambiente Appia Sud Il Riccio has been organizing hikes along this trail from spring to autumn, with participation steadily increasing year after year.
Potential for learning or transfer
This practice represents an example that is potentially interesting for other regions that are including a destination impacted by overtourism. By developing appealing alternative routes, highlighting local heritage, and integrating sustainable mobility, it supports the decongestion of popular and overcrowded tourism hot-spots. Key success factors for potentially replicating the initiative include active involvement of local SMEs, effective promotional strategies combining natural and cultural assets, and easy accessibility through public transport. However, the replicability of such an initiative could be hampered by insufficient collaboration among stakeholders.
Further information
Good practice owner
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