Madrid's rural tourism debates how to strengthen the economy of its villages

Tourism can open up opportunities for local businesses and help conserve the natural and cultural resources of rural municipalities. Striking this balance will be one of the topics at the first Madrid Rural Tourism Congress.

The sessions will take place on 12 and 13 November at the Centro Comarcal de Humanidades Sierra Norte. The event, promoted by the Dirección General de Turismo y Hostelería del Gobierno regional, will be held under the theme Innovation, sustainability and local development from rural territories.

An offer that can adapt without losing its identity

The programme will include talks and round tables on tourism trends and changes in visitor preferences. Participants will discuss how to respond to new expectations without diluting the distinctive features of each destination.

Tourism planning and coordination between local councils, the Comunidad de Madrid and the central government will also be addressed. Sustainability will be another focus of the debate, with attention to protecting the natural environment and conserving cultural heritage.

Four areas share their experience

MadRural brings together the areas of Sierra Norte, Sierra de Guadarrama, Sierra Oeste y Vegas y Alcarria Madrileña. Their representatives will present the particularities of each area and the initiatives they are developing.

The exchange will help identify shared needs and explore how cooperation between territories can improve promotion and strengthen the presence of these destinations in the market. The congress will also discuss the role of tourism in the municipal economy, from accommodation and hospitality to activities related to leisure, nature and heritage.