Rural tourism is considered one of the key strategies for achieving sustainable development by diversifying rural economies, creating employment opportunities, increasing household income, and preserving natural and cultural heritage. Despite the valuable natural, cultural, and agricultural resources of Abarash Village in Sabzevar County, the effective utilization of these potentials has been constrained by planning, infrastructure, and management challenges. Therefore, this study aims to formulate and prioritize rural tourism development strategies using the SWOT model and the Quantitative Strategic Planning Matrix (QSPM). The research is applied in purpose and adopts a descriptive–analytical approach. Data were collected through documentary studies, field observations, and expert questionnaires. The statistical population consisted of 30 experts in tourism, rural development, local management, and university faculty members selected through purposive sampling. Data analysis was conducted using the Internal Factor Evaluation (IFE) Matrix, External Factor Evaluation (EFE) Matrix, SWOT framework, and QSPM. The results showed that the total scores of the IFE and EFE matrices were 2.87 and 2.64, respectively, indicating that Abarash Village is positioned in the aggressive (SO) strategic quadrant. Accordingly, 20 strategies were formulated under four categories: aggressive, conservative, competitive, and defensive. The QSPM results identified the development of eco-lodges through partnerships between the private sector and the local community, branding and digital marketing of tourism attractions, and the design of nature-based, cultural, and agritourism tours as the highest-priority strategies. Implementing these strategies can promote sustainable tourism development, increase employment and income, enhance community participation, and strengthen Abarash Village's position as a rural tourism destination.