"Pay 8,000 Won to Reach the Summit"... Italian Village Imposes Entrance Fee to Combat Overtourism

"Surge in Trash Blamed on Tourists...
Authorities Failing to Take Action"

Some farm owners in the Dolomites region of Italy, known as a 'trekking mecca,' have started installing turnstiles on hiking trails leading to mountain summits and charging entrance fees. This is a self-initiated measure by local residents who are suffering from 'overtourism.' However, Italian authorities have requested the removal of the turnstiles, stating that they were installed without permission.

The Dolomites in Italy are bustling with tourists. Instagram.

According to the French daily Le Figaro, four Dolomites residents installed turnstiles on certain hiking trails to address overtourism, requiring a fee of 5 euros (8,100 won) per person to access the final 300-meter section leading to the Seceda summit (elevation 2,519 meters). Those who do not wish to pay the fee can take a slightly longer trail that does not cross private land.

However, the turnstiles were installed without official authorization. According to the outlet, Italian law guarantees free access to natural parks.

In response, the local tourism board requested the removal of the turnstiles and announced that forest rangers have been deployed to ensure tourists use only designated trails and do not trespass on private property.

"Tourist-Driven Trash Surge... Authorities Remain Inactive"

The Dolomites, a mountain range in northeastern Italy, are famous for their unique rock formations and beautiful natural scenery, making them a popular trekking destination. However, the recent influx of tourists has led to problems such as increased litter, trespassing on private property, and safety risks.

Giorgi Rabanser, a former Italian national snowboarder who owns pastureland in Seceda, expressed his frustration in Ladin (a language used in the Dolomites mountain area of Italy) through the magazine La Usc, stating, "Every day, too many people pass through here, and everyone leaves trash on our land." Giorgi added, "We asked for help. We expected to hear from the local authorities, but nothing happened. We didn't even receive a warning notice. So we are proceeding as planned."

Alberto Zanella, president of the local mountain club Alto Adige Alpine, told CNN that if things continue this way, it will not only cause public inconvenience but also pose a threat to unprepared tourists. He said, "If it were up to me, I would raise the fee from 5 euros to 100 euros and shut down travel influencers' accounts."