Arminda do Paço

University of Beira Interior, Research Unit NECE,

strada do Sineiro, s/n

 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal

Tel.: +351 275 319 600

E-mail: apaco@ubi.pt

Ecotourism from both

 hotels and tourists’ perspective

Helena Alves

University of Beira Interior, Research Unit NECE, Portugal

strada do Sineiro, s/n

 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal

Tel.: +351 275 319 600

E-mail: halves@ubi.pt

ABSTRACT. This empirical research about ecotourism was elaborated having in mind two perspectives: the lodging and the consumer.  It was possible to conclude that the hotels involved in the research need to improve its performance in terms of market research and of the environmental accreditation, but it is convenient to empathise that the environmental and social concerns are present in its activities. Regarding ecotourists, the findings indicate that they are concerned with the environmental issues when they are lodgin. Their great motivation is the possibility of having a contact with the nature, the environmental conservation and the sustainability.

Carolina Nunes

University of Beira Interior,

strada do Sineiro, s/n

 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal

Tel.: +351 275 319 600

E-mail: carolnunesf@hotmail.com

Received: July, 2012

1st Revision: August, 2012

Accepted: October, 2012

JEL Classification:  Q56

Keywords: ecotourism, sustainability, environmental concern