New experiences in nature areas: architecture as a tool to stimulate transformative experiences among visitors in nature areas?

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to share architecture as a tool that is increasingly implemented in nature areas and its potential for stimulating transformative experiences among visitors in nature-based tourism. Design/methodology/approach – Based on three examples of architecture in nature, the value of architecture to nature-based tourism is presented. Findings – It was found that architecture in nature has a wide range of benefits for nature-based tourism and may form a catalyst for gaining transformative experiences in the examples presented. Originality/value – The findings presented in this paper touch upon a new way of stimulating transformative experiences among visitors in nature-based tourism by implementing architecture.

Keywords

• Nature-based tourism
• Architecture
• Nature areas
• Transformational experiences
• Visitor management