CETS Phase I: The Destination

Phase I concerns the protected area itself — in this case, the Cinque Terre National Park.
The Park commits to developing a sustainable tourism strategy involving local stakeholders, tourism operators, municipalities, and residents.

This phase focuses on:

• sustainable mobility

• trail management

• preservation of the landscape

• reduction of environmental impact

• visitor awareness

• promotion of local culture and traditions

The goal is to create a long-term vision for tourism that protects the territory while improving the quality of life for both visitors and residents.

CETS Phase II: Accommodation Providers

CETS Phase II is dedicated to accommodation providers, including:

• hotels

• guesthouses

• B&Bs

• holiday apartments

• agriturismi

• extra-hotel accommodations

Businesses that obtain this recognition commit voluntarily to a path focused on:

• environmental sustainability

• energy and water saving

• waste reduction

• promotion of local products

• responsible tourism practices

• collaboration with local communities

• promotion of public transport and sustainable mobility

   

These businesses work closely with the National Park and actively contribute to the sustainable tourism strategy of the territory.

For travelers, choosing a CETS-certified accommodation means supporting businesses that are genuinely committed to protecting the Cinque Terre and promoting a more authentic and responsible way of traveling.

CETS Phase III: Tour Operators

CETS Phase III is dedicated specifically to tour operators.

This phase focuses on companies that organize experiences, tours, and activities inside protected areas.

Tour operators that receive the certification commit to:

• creating low-impact tourism experiences

• promoting authentic local culture

• supporting local producers and small businesses

• encouraging respectful visitor behavior

• reducing overcrowding and pressure on the territory

• informing travelers about environmental protection

• working closely with local communities and institutions

This recognition is still relatively rare in Europe and particularly uncommon in Italy.

Arbaspàa is proud to be the first tour operator in Italy to receive the CETS Phase III recognition.

Arbaspàa and Sustainable Tourism

For more than 25 years, Arbaspàa has worked closely with the territory, local communities, and small local producers to create authentic experiences in the Cinque Terre.

Our approach has always focused on:

• supporting local businesses

• promoting authentic traditions

• encouraging slower tourism

• creating meaningful travel experiences

• helping visitors discover the territory beyond mass tourism

Through our apartments, tours, hiking experiences, food and wine activities, and collaborations with local partners, we aim to offer travelers a deeper connection with the Cinque Terre and the surrounding areas.

Receiving the CETS Phase III recognition represents an important step in this journey and confirms our long-term commitment to sustainable tourism.