Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism

Andermatt was recognised by UN Tourism as a «Best Tourism Village» in 2022, making it one of the world’s leading tourism villages. The international initiative highlights rural destinations that use tourism as a driver for development while taking into account natural and cultural resources, community values and local products, among other aspects. The recognition connects Andermatt with an international network of villages that exchange experiences and learn from one another.

What is the «Best Tourism Villages» initiative?

UN Tourism launched the «Best Tourism Villages» initiative in 2021. It is part of the «Tourism for Rural Development» programme and focuses on the role of tourism in the development of rural areas. Participating villages are assessed by an independent advisory board based on various criteria across nine areas:

• Natural and cultural resources

• Promotion and conservation of cultural resources

• Economic development

• Social development

• Environmental sustainability

• Tourism development and value chain integration

• Governance and prioritisation of tourism

• Infrastructure and connectivity

What, according to UN Tourism, makes Andermatt stand out?

Andermatt was recognised by UN Tourism as a «Best Tourism Village» in 2022. In its profile of Andermatt, UN Tourism highlights various distinctive features of the village and the region:

• the Alpine natural and cultural landscape with its diverse flora and fauna

• the numerous mountain lakes, streams and springs as well as the surrounding mountain landscape

• the wide range of nature, sports and cultural experiences available in summer and winter

• Andermatt’s history, which can be explored in the historic village centre and at the Talmuseum Ursern, among other places

• the special significance of the Gotthard region, with its stories and legends surrounding the Schöllenen Gorge and the Devil’s Bridge

• the use of water and wind for energy production in the region

• participation in the OK:GO initiative, providing information on the accessibility of tourism offers and services

The recognition is based on an assessment of various aspects of tourism and village development. These include natural and cultural resources, economic, social and environmental aspects, tourism development, governance, infrastructure, health and safety.

Part of an international network

With this recognition, Andermatt became part of the international «Best Tourism Villages Network». The network enables recognised villages from different countries to exchange experiences, knowledge and good practices. Andermatt also exchanges ideas and experiences with other recognised villages, including Murten in Switzerland, San Ginesio in Italy, Huangling in China and Rupit in Spain.