The future of the mountains: Nathalie Delattre reveals her ambitions for tourism in Saint-Lary

IN BRIEF

Nathalie Delattre, delegated minister for Tourism.
Visit to Saint-Lary to discuss the future of mountain resorts.
Commitment to support future developments in the sector.
Discussed the social role of holiday camps in skiing.
Importance of labeling for tourism and disability.
Recognition of the lack of seasonal workers in the industry.

Nathalie Delattre, Minister of Tourism in Saint-Lary: “We support the future developments of the mountain” #

During her recent visit to Saint-Lary, Nathalie Delattre, the delegated minister for Tourism, affirmed her commitment to support mountain resorts in their future development. She emphasized the importance of four-season tourism and the growth of activities that complement traditional skiing, while highlighting the crucial need for workforce during peak periods.

The need for sufficient workforce #

During her speech, Nathalie Delattre expressed a major concern: currently in France, there is a shortage of 63,000 seasonal workers in seasonal sectors, particularly in the mountainous regions. This lack of personnel could harm the quality of services offered to tourists, which is a significant issue for the attractiveness of resorts like Saint-Lary. As a minister, she is committed to finding solutions to attract and train these seasonal workers, which is essential for the proper functioning of these destinations during peak visitor times.

The issues of four-season tourism #

At the core of the discussions, the idea of reinventing tourism in mountain resorts is essential. Nathalie Delattre praised the merits of a transition to a “four-season” tourism model, which is not limited solely to winter sports. This involves the development of activities such as hiking, cycling, and family recreation, thus providing visitors a multitude of options and encouraging a renewal of clientele throughout the year.

The social role of holiday camps in skiing #

The minister also addressed the crucial role of holiday camps, which offer young people a chance to discover the joys of the mountains while promoting learning and sharing experiences. She emphasized that these holiday camps must continue to be supported because they greatly contribute to the formation of future nature and mountain sports enthusiasts. This not only reinforces the education of young people but also enhances mountain culture as a whole.

The importance of accessibility and inclusivity #

During her visit, Nathalie Delattre also advocated for the labeling of accessible destinations for people with disabilities. She reported that too few resorts are currently certified, creating a gap in the tourist offering that could potentially exclude part of the population. An effort towards accessibility in the tourism sector is therefore crucial to promote a complete and inclusive experience.

Future prospects for the mountain tourism sector #

The minister is committed to continuing her consultations and travels to mobilize sector stakeholders. Nathalie Delattre dreams of a future where mountain resorts could become models of innovation and sustainability, maximizing their potential while respecting the environment. Discussions about the future of mountain tourism will gain visibility with targeted initiatives to stimulate its appeal, both for domestic and international tourists.

As Minister Nathalie Delattre actively engages in the future of mountain tourism, her holistic approach—encompassing workforce, accessibility, and the development of varied experiences—could mark a significant step toward the revival of mountain destinations. The challenges are great, but the opportunities to redefine the tourist experience are equally significant.