The Overview and Analysis of the State of Rural Tourism in Croatia

Abstract

In rural areas in Croatia, which makes 91, 6% of its surface, there are 44, 4% of the populations who are directly or indirectly related to agriculture. Taking into account the natural and cultural diversity of Croatian regions, rich resource base of tourist attractions, preserved environment, and 352 registered rural households, Croatia has the prerequisites for the development of rural tourism, and all special forms of tourism related to the rural area. This is important because market demand preference particularly emphasizes the presence of rural tourism and its numerous forms. However, rural area in Croatia is still insufficiently exploited in terms of tourism. Rural tourism in Croatia can become one of the main determinants of development in areas where it has so far been marginalized. Development of rural tourism as one of the tourist offer, which is attractive to investors and uses the unique local potential, will have a significant impact on the growth of domestic product gross and employment. The paper is focused on presenting and commenting the state of rural tourism in Croatia. It is based on data results of previously conducted researches and the new collected, and analyzes state of rural tourism in Croatia in general, facilities, capacities, grant and incentive programs and, finally, suggests guidelines for the sustainable development of rural tourism in Croatia.