To preserve the region’s outstanding natural beauty and prevent overcrowding, the new rules will cap the number of overnight visitors at 2019 levels. No new guest houses, Airbnbs, or hotels will be allowed to open unless an existing one closes down. The rise in the number of Airbnbs by 400 percent in the past five years has led to increased traffic and footfall, which disrupts the harmony with nature that tourists seek.
In addition to limiting accommodations, access to popular sites such as the glacial Lago di Braies will require pre-registration to control the number of vehicles and prevent overcrowding on the paths around the lake. The Alpe di Siusi, a vast Alpine meadow, will restrict private vehicle access between 9 am and 5 pm, allowing visitors only through public transport.
These measures aim to address the negative impacts of overtourism on both the environment and local residents. The region’s popularity has made it challenging for locals to find affordable housing and navigate through traffic congestion.
Arnold Schuler justified the restrictions by emphasizing that tourists come to the region to enjoy its natural beauty and not to get stuck in traffic jams. The goal is to ensure better management of visitor flows and guarantee lodging for tourists while maintaining a sustainable balance.
This move follows similar efforts in other parts of Italy, such as the city of Venice, which plans to introduce a tourist tax to address overtourism. While plans are still being developed, visitors may be required to pay between €3 and €10 per day to enter Venice or face a €300 fine.
These measures underscore the growing need for sustainable tourism practices to protect delicate ecosystems, preserve cultural heritage, and maintain a high quality of life for local communities. By implementing these restrictions, Trentino Alto Adige aims to strike a balance between tourism promotion and the preservation of its natural and cultural treasures.
Tags: Italy, Arnold Schuler, Trentino Alto Adige
