The Szigetköz as an active tourism destination: Development directions and opportunities

Abstract

This study examines the development opportunities of active tourism within the Szigetköz region, aiming to identify the necessary innovative, sustainable, and experience-based developments needed to boost hiking, cycling, and water tourism. In this qualitative empirical research, in-depth interviews were conducted with six local entrepreneurs and six project managers between July 2024 and March 2025. The interviewees identified the diverse hiking trails as one of the strengths of the Szigetköz, while the lack of an integrated service provider system as a weakness. They saw the opportunity for positive brand building as a potential, and climate change as a threat. They emphasized that by capitalizing on the areas that need development, the region's active tourism potential could be further enhanced. The analysis highlights that regional-level collaborative efforts need improvement, as these are essential for long-term sustainable development. The paper proposes the establishment of a regional tourism entity and close collaboration with universities as practical recommendations.