EPIC STAYS
It aims to bridge the shortage of tourism accommodations across Europe and the need for rural tourism development and regeneration through vocational education and training for hospitality entrepreneurs interested in the opportunities of the alternative accommodation business models.
What is the motivation for the project?
The EPIC STAYS project is motivated by the urgent need to modernize vocational education and training (VET) in response to emerging trends and challenges in the European tourism sector. Traditional tourism models are increasingly unsustainable amid growing concerns over climate change, shifting consumer preferences, and a shortage of suitable accommodation, particularly in rural and remote areas. EPIC STAYS aims to bridge this gap by equipping VET educators and learners with the skills and knowledge to develop and promote Alternative Tourism Accommodation. By fostering innovation and sustainability, the project will empower tourism SMEs to adapt, thrive, and contribute to a more resilient tourism ecosystem. This initiative reflects a strategic response to pressing economic and environmental needs, while opening new market opportunities across Europe.
What problem does the project solve?
EPIC STAYS addresses the pressing need for innovation in European tourism, particularly in accommodation offerings. Traditional models are increasingly misaligned with sustainable practices and evolving traveller expectations. The project tackles key challenges including the EU-wide accommodation crisis, the impacts of climate change, and the lack of tailored VET offerings focused on Alternative Tourism Accommodation (ATA). By upskilling educators and learners in this emerging field, EPIC STAYS empowers tourism SMEs – especially in remote and rural regions – to adopt more resilient and environmentally responsible business models. This approach supports the transformation of European tourism into a more sustainable and opportunity-rich sector.
Who is the project team?
The EPIC STAYS project team is a collaboration of tourism and VET experts from Iceland, Ireland, the Netherlands, Italy, and Slovenia. It includes educational institutions, tourism networks, and SMEs. The team will engage students throughout the project via co-creation, testing of learning materials, and pilot activities, offering real-world experience in the development of innovative accommodation models. This cooperation ensures the training content remains practical and relevant.
What is the project approach?
EPIC STAYS adopts a research-driven and collaborative approach to VET innovation. It begins with mapping the current landscape of Alternative Tourism Accommodation across Europe, identifying key trends, barriers, and opportunities. Using these insights, the project will develop niche VET curricula and digital learning tools tailored to the needs of tourism businesses and learners. Capacity-building initiatives will ensure that VET educators can deliver high-quality training, while sustainability measures will support long-term use beyond the project's life. The approach prioritizes scalability, cross-border collaboration, and alignment with European sustainability goals to maximize relevance and impact.
What are the main (or preliminary) results?
EPIC STAYS will deliver a comprehensive VET programme focused on Alternative Tourism Accommodation, ready for deployment by partners and associates. The project expects to upskill over VET educators and learners, equipping them with knowledge, tools, and best practices. Key results include innovative, flexible teaching materials for online and classroom use, a knowledge base on alternative accommodations' benefits and drivers, and strategic guidelines for sustainable tourism development. These outcomes will enable VET providers and SMEs to lead in a growing niche market and strengthen the tourism sector’s capacity for green transition and resilience.
