RURAL AREAS SUSTAINABILITY: AGRICULTURAL DIVERSIFICATION AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR AGRI-TOURISM DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

The paper analyses socio-demographic and production potentials and opportunities for agri-tourism development. The research was carried out on holdings in the northern regions of Montenegro and Croatia. The focus is placed on family holdings with agriculture being the primary activity. The results show presence of certain production and socio-demographic preconditions for development of agri-tourism as a supplementary activity on holdings. In future, agri-tourism could encourage development of rural communities surveyed. Respondents identify state institutions as the key players in agri-tourism development. Agricultural holdings are not sufficiently networked, either vertically or horizontally, with the state and local institutions. Future agri-tourism development in Montenegro and Croatia should be based on sustainable development principles.