Wellness tourism experiences in mountain regions

Resorts have been a feature of travel for centuries. Their origins in Europe are traced to Roman times when their typical structure was defined by an atrium surrounded by recreational or sporting amenities, restaurants, rooms... [ view full abstract ]

Resorts have been a feature of travel for centuries. Their origins in Europe are traced to Roman times when their typical structure was defined by an atrium surrounded by recreational or sporting amenities, restaurants, rooms and shops. The purpose of Roman resorts focused on promoting health and social benefits as well as relaxation for legionnaires and consuls throughout the Empire. Murphy defines a modern day resort as a planned vacation business that can operate at a variety of scales and with a selection of target markets through the creation of a valued experience. The purpose of a resort is to provide a place of escape or restoration from the world of work and daily care by providing holiday-makers with high quality experiences and services that include: accommodations, food and beverage, entertainment, recreation, health amenities and social opportunities. Once a retreat for the wealthy, over time these developments have become accessible to the masses through improved accessibility and globalization. Resort concepts have been developed over the last two centuries by corporations and communities in mountainous regions of western Canada for two main reasons: to encourage westward expansion and; to develop the hinterland of industrial-rural regions. The purpose of this presentation is to explore the evolving role of the visitor experience at health resorts in mountainous regions of western Canada through an exploratory case study of Sparkling Hill Resort in British Columbia. First, a review of current literature examining trends in mountain tourism, health and wellness tourism, and the visitor experience in British Columbia to provide a context for analysis. Second, the study design using a case study approach with mixed methods will be explained. Results of a web audit of health and wellness facilities in BC as well as a series of in-depth interviews with the management of Sparkling Hill Resort will identify the importance of wellness experiences in attracting, holding, and satisfying guests in mountain landscapes.