Abstract

San Bernardino Swiss Alps, backed by a CHF 300 million investment, aims to transform the Grison Mountain village of San Bernardino into a year-round destination while preserving its natural heritage. This study investigates the sustainable development strategy implemented by the company, analysing the perspectives of local stakeholders and benchmarking against Andermatt Swiss Alps, a successful case of Alpine revitalization. While the project promises economic, social, and ecological benefits, concerns about environmental and cultural implications underline the importance of inclusive stakeholder engagement. Recommendations focus on enhancing winter and summer offerings and fostering collaborations with nearby regions. Moreover, this paper contributes to the broader discussion on sustainable tourism management in Alpine regions.

Keywords: Sustainable development; Destination management; Tourism; San Bernardino Swiss Alps; Stakeholder engagement; Economic impact; Ecological conservation