Culinary Heritage and Ecotourism Development in the Sharr Mountains: Evidence from Tourists’ Perspectives

Mountain destinations are vital areas for sustainable tourism, yet the cultural value of local culinary heritage is often underutilized compared to natural attractions. This study examines the role of culinary heritage in the development of ecotourism in the Sharr Mountains region, investigating its contribution to tourist experiences, satisfaction, and destination loyalty. Data were collected from 93 domestic and international tourists through a structured survey, complemented by field observations and documentary analysis. The empirical analysis evaluates visitor perceptions regarding the authenticity and quality of traditional Sharr gastronomy, alongside behavioral intentions to recommend or return to the region. The findings indicate that traditional gastronomy is an important component of the visitor experience, receiving exceptionally high ratings for authenticity and quality. Furthermore, a strong positive relationship was observed between engagement with local food systems, overall tourist satisfaction, and intentions to revisit and recommend the Sharr Mountains. The study concludes that culinary heritage can function simultaneously as an intangible cultural resource and a strategic destination development tool. Integrating traditional gastronomy into sustainable mountain tourism products strengthens local economic participation and supports long-term cultural preservation.