The Contribution of Mycological Tourism to Well-Being, the Economy and Sustainable Development

Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 Dec 18;19(24):17027. doi: 10.3390/ijerph192417027.

Abstract

This article analyses the scientific production related to tourism and mushrooms. The method used was a bibliometric analysis and a systematic literature review. The main results show that it is a recent area of study that predominates in Spain but that will expand and gain relevance over time. The thematic analysis has made it possible to structure the information according to the economic contribution of this tourist niche, the well-being it brings to residents and tourists, the importance of a sustainable development of the activity, and the promotion and marketing of this new tourism. Supporting mycological tourism will help the development of rural areas and bring physical, mental, social, educational, and nutritional benefits to residents and tourists. This study has allowed us to develop a future research agenda, highlighting the importance of further research to harness the benefits of mycological tourism while at the same time transferring that knowledge to stakeholders, which will be necessary.

Keywords: mushroom tourism; mycological tourism; mycotourism; sustainable rural development; well-being.

Publication types

  • Systematic Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Spain
  • Sustainable Development*
  • Tourism*

Grants and funding

This research was funded by the Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities, the ADAPTOUR project, grant number “PID2020-112525RB-100” and “PRE2018-085470”, the AEI/FEDER, UE and the Department of Research and Universities of the Catalan Government, grant number “GRATET-2017SGR22”.