The Camino Francés, a 780km pilgrimage in Northern Spain, has been traveled by millions of pilgrims over the last 800 years. In recent decades the route has been increasingly threatened by insensitive development and infrastructure. Surprisingly little research has been conducted on the nature and ecology of pilgrims’ experiences and the landscape necessary to support the roughly 170,000 people that walk the Camino each year. Adapting methods from recreation and leisure science, this autoethnographic research explored the influence of the environment on my pilgrimage experience as I walked for five weeks in the Fall of 2011. Analysis used a variety of qualitative techniques in creating my own narrative. My research suggests that the landscape is essential to a positive and meaningful pilgrimage experience. Future planning and design efforts for this UNESCO route should incorporate the influence of the landscape on the experience of pilgrimage.

Abstract As is the case in many developed countries, tourism has come to be seen as an important driver for local economic development in South Africa as it provides opportunities for pro-poor and community-based initiatives. This study examines the theme of route tourism and local economic development. Two examples of route tourism, the Magalies Meander and Crocodile Ramble, in the Gauteng and the Northwest Provinces of South Africa, have been surveyed in order to assess what impact private sector route tourism initiatives have on local economic development in the Magaliesberg area. The results are compared with those of other similar route tourism initiatives in South Africa.

The aim of this work is to create a proposal for a new European cultural route in accordance with the rules adopted by the Council of Europe. The route has to pass regions outside the traditional tourist centers, and through the promotion of their cultural heritage to contribute to their economic development. To meet this objective, methodology developed under the CERTESS has been used. The first step is theme selection and justification. Subsequently, elements of cultural heritage that correspond to the theme are identified. Range of services linked to tourism - transport, accommodation and catering - is analyzed in the regions. Then the destination management organizations with the potential to be members of the umbrella organization are identified. In conclusion, itinerary for selected customer segment is created.