Mina Parhamzade, Elahe Kahdouei, Mohammad Siavashi,
Volume 15, Issue 30 (12-2025)
Abstract
Aim: Mountain sports destinations have great attractions for tourists due to their special natural and physical characteristics, and one of the ways to contribute to sustainable development in these areas is the development of responsible tourism. The aim of the present study was to develop a responsible tourism development model in mountain-based sports destinations.
Methods: The research method was qualitative, of a grounded theory type, and the tool used was semi-structured interviews. The research population consisted of experts in the field of mountain sports tourism, and the sampling method was purposeful. The validity of the interviews was confirmed by experts, and reliability was established using the method of agreement between two coders (80%). The findings from 19 interviews were analyzed through coding and model presentation using MAXQDA 2020 software.
Result: The findings showed that causal conditions included a lack of smooth pathways and guide signs, tourist culture and local community, privatization, and security. Contextual conditions included neglect of carrying capacity, inadequate accommodation infrastructure, and poor transportation. Intervening conditions included price instability, lack of waste management, and rational policymaking. Strategies included hosting sports events, training specialized personnel, increasing interactions, and community-based planning. Consequences included regional economic development, adhering to sustainable development principles, and preserving cultural and natural heritage.
Conclusion: It is suggested that sports events at mountainous tourist destinations be held and planned with a focus on responsible tourism, including community-based training and employment of local personnel.
