Vision

• To increase awareness of, and support for, Europe's protected areas as a fundamental part of our heritage, that should be preserved for, and enjoyed by, current and future generations.
• To improve the sustainable development and management of tourism in protected areas, which takes account of the
  needs of the environment, local residents, local businesses and visitors.

The Charter reflects the wish of authorities managing protected areas, of local stakeholders and representatives of the tourism business to support and encourage tourism that accords with the principles of sustainable development.

It commits the signatories to implementing a local strategy for "sustainable tourism" defined as : "any form of tourism development, management or activity which ensures the long-term protection and preservation of natural, cultural and social resources and contributes in a positive and equitable manner to the economic development and well-being of individuals living, working, or staying in protected areas".

It order to put this form of tourism into practice, it is necessary to take a global view of tourism in and around a protected area, to engage in a process of wide consultation,  and to strengthen the positive interactions between tourism and other economic sectors in the area.

Finally, the aim of this type of tourism is to respond to the expectations of European visitors by making travel meaningful again, by allowing time to explore and meet other people, and to gain from the experience by giving something of oneself.