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In recent years, forest-based tourism has grown into a global megatrend, attracting travellers seeking both wellness and environmental connection. From forest bathing to outdoor wellness retreats, this trend is not only about mental and physical rejuvenation but also about fostering sustainability. The ForestWell project is uniquely positioned to enhance this movement by combining vocational education and cutting-edge tools like Augmented Reality (AR) to prepare learners for the future of the tourism industry.

The Power of Forest-Based Tourism

The appeal of forests is timeless. They provide spaces of peace, tranquillity, and renewal—a much-needed antidote to the stresses of modern life. Global Wellness Summit (2022) noted that restorative trips into nature are now a top priority for travellers, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. This rising demand for forest-based wellness experiences presents a significant opportunity for entrepreneurs and professionals in the tourism and wellness sectors.

However, alongside these opportunities, there is a responsibility to ensure that this type of tourism is sustainable. Forest-based tourism can only thrive when it is managed in a way that protects and enhances natural ecosystems. This is where education becomes crucial.

ForestWell’s Role in Forest-Based Tourism

The ForestWell project aims to empower educators, learners, and entrepreneurs to embrace sustainable practices while developing innovative offerings for forest-based wellness tourism. The project’s initiatives include:

  • Equipping learners with practical skills: Through vocational education, learners can gain knowledge about sustainable tourism practices and how to create meaningful, eco-friendly experiences for travellers.
  • Introducing digital tools like AR: The ForestWell AR environment allows learners to virtually explore forests and simulate real-world scenarios, making learning both engaging and practical.
  • Supporting sustainable entrepreneurship: By integrating green and digital skills into its training materials, ForestWell is helping to develop a new generation of eco-conscious tourism professionals.

Why Sustainability is Key

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a necessity for the survival of forest-based tourism. Over-tourism and mismanagement of natural resources can degrade the very environments that attract visitors. Through its educational programme and resources like the Massive Open Online Course (MOOC), ForestWell is instilling the importance of sustainability into every aspect of its training.

Looking Ahead: A Future Built on Wellness and Sustainability

As the world continues to prioritise health and environmental conservation, forest-based tourism will remain at the forefront of travel trends. By providing high-quality, future-proof training, ForestWell ensures that the tourism industry evolves responsibly and sustainably.

Discover ForestWell’s Resources

Are you ready to be part of this transformation? Explore our resources and tools:

Connect with Us

For the latest news, updates, and insights, follow ForestWell on social media:

Through innovation, sustainability, and collaboration, ForestWell is redefining vocational education for forest-based tourism. Join us as we help shape the future of wellness tourism—one sustainable step at a time.

Written by Kathryn O’Brien (EUEI)

© 2025 The FORESTWELL Project. All rights reserved.
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