Abstract
This paper investigates whether the quality and preservation of destination’s resources meet tourists’ expectations and is capable to influence their satisfaction and intention to return. A quantitative questionnaire was developed and administered to tourists in Riva del Garda, Italy. An importance-performance analysis, a principal component analysis and a structural equation model have been developed. Findings reveal that the preservation of local resources is a critical area that needs to be improved. Results also show that even if the quality and preservation of destination’s resources are primary issues for tourists, only quality affects their satisfaction and intention to return to Lake Garda. However, quality and preservation are not disconnected constructs, as the quality of destination’s resources in the mid- and long-term is affected by their preservation. Lake Garda due to the richness and diversity of its natural and historical heritage is in a strong competitive position. The challenge for destination managers is to connect tourists to its history, people and culture, while at the same time preserving the local environment.