Do tourism-based ski resorts contribute to the homogeneous development of the Mediterranean mountains? A case study in the Central Spanish Pyrenees

Abstract

Tourist activities, especially those related to skiing, have been promoted in the central Spanish Pyrenees since the 1950s. Using a 30-year data set extending back to before the development of most ski resorts in the Pyrenees, we analysed the effects of ski resort development on the human population (change in the number of inhabitants, demographic structure and structure of the working sector) and the primary production activities of the area (number of farms and livestock). Spatial differences that have occurred in the socioeconomic changes since ski resort construction began are also analysed. Results show that the area influenced by ski resorts is restricted to the municipalities nearest to them. These municipalities show positive demographic changes and a negative evolution of primary activities. The municipalities more distant from the ski resorts show the opposite pattern. The advantages and problems of ski resort-based tourism in relation to the sustainable development of the Pyrenees are discussed in depth.