Perception and needs of older visitors in the Swiss National Park - A qualitative study of hiking tourists over 55

Abstract

Older people are increasingly active tourists. Better health, an improved financial background and better mobility have let their number as visitors in the Swiss National Park (SNP) steadily increase. This paper aims at ascertaining these older visitors' perception of the SNP. Using a qualitative approach, we interviewed more than a hundred visitors over 55. In addition, we carried out interviews with experts from the region to find out how this clientele is perceived by the tourist industry and the park management. Results show that older people are a visitor group that is very interested in information about the SNP. While still fit, they take their time on the trails and spend more time on observation. Older visitors are very much in favour of the strict rules that apply in the park and resent people breaking these rules. What they most dislike is crowding and noise, a fact that needs close attention from the park management. The tourist industry is very much aware of this tourist group's multiplicator effect and tries to meet their needs as much as possible. © Corvin Bulliard.