The role of tourism in the Mátra Region

Dávid, Lóránt – Tóth, Géza

Keywords: tourism, Mátra, tourism statistics

A large portion of settlements in the Mátra region face social and economic problems and are characterised by de-migration, high unemployment, low density of enterprises and low incomes. The above facts were confirmed earlier in our research conducted in the North Hungary Region.
One way to promote development of the Mátra region would be through tourism. It was found, however, that the ratio of commercial accommodations to residents is significantly lower than the countryside average. This situation needs to be remedied. In our opinion, improvement of the existing 3 and 4 star hotels should be given priority. Once tourism in the Mátra region is dynamically growing, the capacity of commercial accommodations will become justified (additions, building new hotels). In the town of Gyöngyös, additional accommodations should definitely be established, as currently the town does not have a four star hotel (and the current plans are limited to improving the three star downtown Hotel Opál).
In addition to the issue of quality improvements, the number of real touristic attractions is too low to attract tourists and keep them here. New attractions should also be created, which will have a decisive impact on the future of the region.
The this important field where improvements are needed is stronger cooperation between service providers, via establishing clusters and networks and setting up Touristic Destination Management (TDM) organisations.

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