Importance of tree species composition and forest structure on recreational use - a case study for mountain forests in Upper Styria

The development of rural tourism is closely linked to the recreational function of the forest and the provision of forest services for recreational purposes. Due to the high share of forest cover (about 50 %), Austria features a large number of such "natural" recreational areas. In rural and urban regions forests are regularly utilized for tourist activities such as hiking or mountain biking. Recreational and landscape-based tourism in forests has become more attractive in Austria, as in many other parts of Europe. Aesthetically pleasing, adaptable and functional forests and landscapes are increasingly attracting tourism. An example of a region rich in forests with different tree species is the district of Murau in Styria, Austria. In this area, there was an ongoing project to promote more Larch (Larix decidua) more strongly in mixed stand in order to investigate