A methodological proposal to co-design well-being experiences: the case of the Ebro Delta Natural Park and Els Ports Natural Park, Catalonia, Spain

Abstract

ABSTRACT Protected areas (PAs) offer a wide range of well-being benefits closely linked to the objective of providing genuine experiences that intend to involve tourists across the physical, mental, social, emotional, spiritual, and environmental spheres. This article is part of a research project that aims to transfer knowledge about the well-being benefits provided by PAs through the design of well-being experiences, all within the framework of a methodological participatory process and co-design approach that integrates visual methods in data collection and analysis, together with the involvement of public and private agents. Methodology is apllied in two protected natural areas (PNAs): the Ebro Delta Natural Park (EDNP) and the Els Ports Natural Park (EPNP), both located in South Catalonia. The resulting experiences can be included in the tourist offer provided by parks and tourist sector; above all, they will drive efforts to include, reinforce, communicate, and share the health benefits of PNAs.