A Comprehensive Guide to Albergo Diffuso: The Italian Model of Sustainable Hospitality

by Giancarlo Dall’Ara, Founder of the Albergo Diffuso model and President of the Association of Alberghi Diffusi.

Abstract

The “Albergo Diffuso” (AD) is much more than just a type of accommodation; it is a philosophy of hospitality rooted in the Italian lifestyle and a powerful tool for the regeneration of historic villages. Below, I will explain the essence of this model, its history, its global reach, and how to find the best resources to delve deeper into the world of “scattered hospitality” through our official platform.

1. What is an Albergo Diffuso?

An Albergo Diffuso is a “hotel that is not built.” Unlike traditional hotels or resorts that require new construction, the AD is created by networking existing historic buildings within a living community, guaranteeing assistance and hotel services to all guests.

The “corridors” of this hotel are the narrow streets of the village, and the “reception” is a central hub where guests receive their keys and information. Most importantly, guests live among the locals, feeling like “temporary residents” rather than just tourists.

It is characterized by three main dimensions:

• An Original Hospitality Concept: It organizes existing assets in villages to develop tourism without altering the local identity.

• A Unified Hotel Management: Although the rooms are scattered throughout the village, they are managed as a single entity with professional hotel services (daily cleaning, assistance, breakfast).

• A Motor for Territorial Development: It stimulates and regenerates the local economy by involving residents without creating negative impacts.

2. The Genesis: My Role in the Ideation

My journey with “hotels that aren’t built” began in the early 1980s in Carnia (FriuliVG). My research followed a double track:

1. Identifying the minimum requirements to make the idea economically viable and valuable for the territory.

2. Creating an original “Made in Italy” model, distinct from other accommodation proposals, and suitable for the development of villages.

3. Inspiring legislation on the Albergo Diffuso, from the very first law in the world (Sardinia, 1998) to international regulatory frameworks, including those in Croatia, Japan, and Albania.

3. Protecting the Vision: The Birth of the Association

As the popularity of the concept grew, there was a risk of it being simplified or reduced to a mere network of holiday homes. To safeguard its authenticity and to enhance its value, I founded the National Association of Alberghi Diffusi (now the International Association).

4. From Italy to the World

The internationalization of the model took off in 2009, starting with projects in Switzerland. A turning point came in 2010 when the model received international recognition at the World Travel Market in London and a featured article in The New York Times.

Today, the Albergo Diffuso is a global phenomenon:

• In Europe: Present in Switzerland, Albania, Croatia, and Germany.

• In Japan: A particularly successful expansion, since the first experience in Yakage in 2018.

• Ongoing Interest: Growing interest in many other countries around the world, from Korea to Rwanda.

5. Exploring www.albergodiffuso.com

Our website is the primary portal for travelers and operators. Here is what you shouldn’t miss:

• The News Section: Stay updated on the latest international meetings, articles featuring us, and initiatives related to “Passion Tourism” (Turismo delle Passioni)—the latest evolution of experiential travel.

• Educational Resources: You can download the free ebook (the very one this guide is based on) and find information about the “Manual of Albergo Diffuso” published by FrancoAngeli.

• The Blog on Village Tourism: A space where we discuss sustainability, authentic hospitality, and the future of villages.

I invite you to explore the site and join us in this “all-Italian adventure” that celebrates the beauty of slow living and authentic human connections.