This paper discusses the role of agritourism in deprived rural areas as an instrument of regional development that builds on local cultural and natural advantages. This is illustrated with preliminary data collected from interviews carried out at agritourism enterprises from the demarcated wine-producing regions of the north of Portugal. The evidence gathered shows that tourism may have a role in marketing unique local products, preserving architectural heritage and developing physical and human capital in which rural regions are lacking. Moreover, the LEADER capital provided by the European Union was a crucial factor in the interviewees' initial investment decisions.
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