This work describes the research activity conducted in order to develop a method for the sustainable touristic use of marginal rural areas at risk of desertification. The study area examined is located in Sicily (Italy), in an internal zone characterized by the scarcity of water resources, electricity and road infrastructures. However, the area is rich in geological, archaeological and anthropogenic resources that can contribute to the touristic valorization and economic development. The proposed method consisted of three main phases: (1) landscape analysis by Landscape Character Assessment (LCA); (2) a SWOT analysis; and (3) the planning and the design for public use. The results, and the replicability of the method in other areas characterized by similar strengths and weaknesses, may be useful in the context of urban planning reforms envisaged by the Sicilian Regional Law No. 19/2020 and to aid the Superintendence of Landscape and Cultural Heritage in the preservation and enhancement of historical cultural landscapes . The adopted strategies may also be useful in the achievement of the objectives set by the Local Actions Groups (GAL, Sicily, Italy) that comply with the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) to provide the municipalities involved with local services.