AGRITOURISM AS A FORM OF NON-AGRICULTURAL BUSINESS IN RURAL AREAS ON THE EXAMPLE OF THE ŚWIĘTOKRZYSKIE PROVINCE

Abstract

The aim of this article is to determine the conditions and opportunities for development of agrotourism in rural areas of Świętokrzyskie province and the identification of economic and noneconomic benefits from the development of agrotourism in rural areas in Świętokrzyskie province.Świętokrzyskie province is a region with one of the country's largest share of protected
areas in the total area (65%). The study included 39 rural and semi-urban areas, where the area is located in 90% of protected areas. Agritourism in the analyzed municipalities of Świętokrzyskie province accounted for approx. 3.5% of all non-agricultural businesses. These municipalities can thus be described as "municipalities missed opportunities" in which regardless of the particular and very attractive natural conditions, the function of tourism and recreation is not developed.