Authenticity, new experiences and epic stays

Epic Stays is an EU-funded RUN-EU project addressing challenges in the accommodation sector by focusing on authenticity, novel experiences, and sustainability. Partnering with institutions across Europe, the project promotes alternative tourism models like Italy’s "albergo diffuso" and Iceland’s cave houses. It aims to empower small tourism businesses through innovative solutions and a dedicated training programme, ensuring they thrive amidst climate change and mass tourism while supporting local communities.

What is the motivation for the project

The project seeks to solve problems in the accommodation industry by emphasising authentic, unique experiences and sustainable practices. As climate change and mass tourism impact the industry, finding ways to support local communities and provide transformative experiences is crucial.

The project's focus is on the so called alternative tourism accommodation, a concept that includes emerging types of hospitality enterprises away from the traditional hotel business model. Epic Stays is a project that will empower tourism accommodation businesses with the agility, tools, resources, and acumen needed to thrive in a rapidly changing landscape.

What problem does the project solve

The ultimate goal of the project is to craft new solutions for the development of resilient future tourism accommodation.

By supporting new and innovative accommodation ideas, the project boosts the hospitality industry’s competitiveness and sustainability. It also improves training for small and medium-sized tourism businesses through a special education programme, making them more efficient and adaptable. From the picturesque hills of Italy to the windswept shores of Iceland, Europe is fostering a new era of accommodation that requires the hospitality industry to embrace innovation, authenticity, regenerative and environmental principles, and sustainability.

Who are in the project team

Epic Stays is an ERASMUS+ project working to redefine tourism accommodation across Europe. The project team aims to bridge the shortage of tourism accommodations across Europe and the need for rural tourism development and regeneration. They believe that tourists deserve more than just one kind of place to stay, they deserve choice and variance – they deserve an unforgettable stay tailored to their unique tastes, dream stays and interests. And for accommodation owners, the chance to adopt innovative and inspiring new business models.

Kjartan Bollason, Hólar University
Magnea Lára Elínardóttir, Hólar University
Dr Lucia Tomassini, NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences
Dr Radu Mihailescu, NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences
Dr Tony Johnston, Technological University of the Shannon
Dr Noëlle O'Connor, Technological University of the Shannon

What is the project approach

The project focusses on innovative, sustainable, and authentic hospitality models that provide unique experiences while integrating with natural surroundings and supporting local communities. It empowers SMEs through a dedicated VET programme, equipping them with the tools and knowledge needed to adapt and thrive. By fostering innovation and sustainability, Epic Stays aims to create resilient, future-proof tourism accommodations that can handle environmental changes and evolving consumer preferences, ensuring the long-term viability and appeal across Europe.