Tourism development or nature protection? Lessons from a cluster analysis based on users of a French nature-based destination

In nature-based destinations, tourism development and the preservation of natural resources are difficult issues for managers to reconcile. In a sustainable tourism approach, they try to involve the various stakeholders, and more particularly the visitors, to find the best possible balance. The research conducted to date often opposes residents and tourists regarding their expectations of a natural site and the pro-environmental behaviours they are willing to adopt. This study seeks to overcome this binary opposition by adopting a cluster analysis based on the expectations of the visitors regarding the management of the place (Brittany, France). The results reveal a more complex reality incorporating four clusters: the hardliners, the pleasure-seekers, the protectors, and the wilderness champions. Within these clusters, there is consistency between preservation expectations and the adoption of pro-environmental behaviours. These results are discussed, and research avenues are proposed. Management implications: Conflicting preferences regarding seaside development and environmental management constitute an enormous problem to face. Cluster analysis determines diverging preferences among visitors for further strategic development. Four possible criteria for managers facing this situation: (1) following the views of the largest cluster or (2) giving priority to visitors who are the most environmentally friendly Or (3) placing inhabitants' expectations first or (4) putting sense of place as a guideline for decision making. o placing inhabitants' expectations first.

Automated summary

In nature-based tourism destinations, finding a balance between tourism development and the preservation of natural resources is a challenge. This study used cluster analysis to categorize visitors based on their expectations of place management. The results revealed four clusters with differing preservation expectations and pro-environmental behaviors. Managers can use these findings to inform strategic development plans that consider the preferences of different visitor groups.