Biroturystyka w Polsce – charakterystyka zjawiska

The present paper deals with conditions and opportunities for the development of beer tourism in Poland. The first part characterises the phenomenon. The definition of beer-related tourism can be based on a better-researched phenomenon, namely wine tourism. According to R. Plummer et al. (2005, 449), beer tourism includes excursions to breweries, participation in beer festivals and other beer-related events, during which beer tasting and experiencing the local beer culture are the most important motivation factors for the visitors. The author proposes a classification of beer tourism attractions consisting of two categories: facilities and events. Four types of facilities are distinguished. The fundamental type consists of production breweries, in which the production function dominates. An interesting type are brewpubs, which function both as breweries and as restaurants. Other facilities are being created, too, whose main function is serving the tourists and other visitors. These are mainly brewery museums. The last type of facilities are places where beer is being served, such as pubs. The second category consists of events, divided into two types: events and festivals devoted to beer and, more broadly, culinary and regional events. The second part of the paper presents selected examples of facilities and event related to beer tourism in Poland. Described are breweries, brewpubs, brewery museums, beer routes and beer festivals. The author's discussion unambiguously indicates great potential for beer tourism in Poland. On the one hand, a distinct demand for this kind of attractions and services can be observed, which results from a growing interest in beer making and beer culture. On the other hand, many varied places exist where tourists interested in beer can satisfy their needs and motivations.