Czasopismo GEOTOURISM (Geoturystyka) wydawany przez Akademię Górniczo-Hutniczą im. Stanisława Staszica w Krakowie publikuje artykuły naukowe i informacyjne oraz doniesienia naukowe poświęcone szerokiemu spektrum światowej geoturystyki. Czasopismo przeznaczony jest dla wszystkich zainteresowanych problematyką promowania i ochrony dziedzictwa geologicznego, edukacji geologicznej i popularyzacji nauk o Ziemi. Koncentruje się ono na zagadnieniach geologicznych i geomorfologicznych w turystyce ale rówwnież na ich szerszym kontekście geograficznym, na przykład na wpływie geoturystyki na aspekty socjologiczne, ekonomiczne czy kulturowe. Redakcja przyjmuje artykuły tylko w języku angielskim. Facebook INFORMACJE PODSTAWOWE: eISSN 2353-3641 - wersja elektroniczna (wersja pierwotna) ISSN 1731-0830 - wersja drukowana DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7494/geotour zeszyty archiwalne (nr 1-19) - http://www.geoturystyka.pl/pl/czasopismo ZGŁOŚ ARTYKUŁ DO PUBLIKACJI - jak to zrobić? WAŻNA INFORMACJA dla AUTORÓW Tylko manuskrypt, który: przygotowany jest w języku angielskim nawiązuje do profilu magazynu (Cel i zakres tematyczny czasopisma) nie został nigdzie indziej opubliowany lub zaakceptowany do publikacji w jakiejkolwiek formie (papierowej, cyfrowej) (Deklaracja) spełnia wszystkie wytyczne (Wskazówki dla Autorów) zostanie pozytywnie zrecenzowany przez dwóch niezależnych recenzentów (Formularz Recenzji) zostanie dopuszczony do publikacji na łamach magazynu Geotourism / Geoturystyka.
Ten utwór jest dostępny na licencji Creative Commons Uznanie autorstwa 3.0 Unported.
Exploring the geotourism wonders of central Nepal: Barhabise–Tatopani expedition
The Barhabise–Tatopani section in eastern Nepal, located 80 km from Kathmandu, is being explored for geotourism development in the present study. Despite its fame for sightseeing, no prior studies have approached geotouristic site development. This study involves field observation and systematic mapping of natural and man-made wonders. The region consists of diverse rocks from the Lesser and Higher Himalayan succession, featuring low to high-grade metamorphic rocks. The region’s rolling topography, shaped by perennial rivers, offers unique geomorphic features. Abundant mineral resources, including talc and magnesite, make it an attractive destination. Tatopani’s famous hot springs lie in the geologically significant MCT region. The area is ideal for rafting and rock climbing, with renowned temples, Gumbas, and attractions like Bhairabkund, a natural lake at 4,200 m elevation, and the Hanuman boulder. Inhabited by ethnic communities like Tamang, Magar, Gurung, and Sherpa, the region presents a rich tapestry for geotourism enthusiasts.
Prawa autorskie (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en
Exploring the potential of geotourism along the trek route of the Pokhara Ghandruk section of Gandaki Province, Nepal
Geoconservation enhances tourist knowledge of a site’s geology, going beyond surface appreciation. Geotourism emphasizes geology and landscape, contributing to geodiversity conservation through various activities. While the Pokhara Ghandruk area in Gandaki Province is renowned for tourism, it remains unexplored from a geotourism perspective. The study focuses on identifying key geoconservation and geotourism sites for national economic development by systematic geological survey with map preparation highlighting distinctive geological, geomorphic, cultural, heritage and site-seeing features of each site. The region boasts several significant sites, such as Pokhara Valley known for its caves, lakes, and the Seti River gorge. Pokhara canyoning provides thrilling water geoadventures on quartzite cliffs. Naudanda offers breathtaking views of Pokhara Valley and the Annapurna range. Poon Hill and Khumai Danda serve as stunning vantage points for observing snow-capped mountains. The Mardi and Annapurna trek routes, along with Ghandruk Landruk Lwang Dhampus, offers geologically significant sites, including unique rock outcrops due to its passage through the Mahabharat Thrust and the Main Central Thrust (MCT) and exhibit potentiality for rock climbing centers, hot springs, and geocultural parks capitalizing on Gurung hospitality and rich traditions to boost tourism and preserve geoheritage. The study recommends the establishment of geotrails and a geopark within this region.
Prawa autorskie (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en
Geotourism along the Annapurna Mountain Range
Nepal is more explained by its natural beauty of mountain, which have been formed due to continental collision during geological past of approx. 22 million years ago. The Mountain Range of Nepal holds a huge geological history and are rich in geological units of Higher Himalayan Crystalline and Tibetan Tethys Sedimentary Sequence. Each year tourists from different countries visit Nepal for the glorious high hill peak trekking and mountaineering. Tourists are more curious about the minerals, gemstones and rocks of Nepal Himalaya. This paper presents the geology along the Annapurna Mountain Range, so that the tourist can visualize the geological evolution during geological time period. Literature review holds a major part in this research work. Various geological information was collected and used to finalize this research work. Maps, cross sections, and photographs are the main output of this paper.
Public open spaces and geotourism development in Pokhara metropolitan city, Nepal
Public open spaces (POS) are an integral part of the built-up area. They provide a platform for local as well as foreign visitors for recreation, socialization, and stimulation in a diverse environment. POS is a site with unique and attractive geological, geomorphological, landscape and socio-cultural environments are used for geotourism development. This paper discusses the development of geotourism in public open spaces in Pokhara Metropolitan City (PMC) and analyzes the perception of visitors towards the provisions of the particular POS. This study has applied an exploratory research design while primary information was obtained from a field observation with a checklist and patch visitors’ related records from POS. Similarly, visitors’ opinions were obtained through a structured questionnaire. Out of 277 public open spaces so far mapped in PMC, more than 70 patches have a potential for geotourism development and, 18 public open spaces are developed as sites of geotourism. However, only seven of them are managed systematically with the provision of formal institutions collecting revenue from visitors’ entry fees. Regarding the visitor’s satisfaction towards the development and facilities, about 23% of visitors are highly satisfied and another 38% are satisfied. Patches described as highly satisfied are more developed and have more visitors. The annual revenue of these seven POS also confirms that proper development of other POS as geotourism destinations, will further contribute to the economic prosperity of PMC. Moreover, its surrounding areas will have higher prospects of developing as global geopark.
Rocks, ridges, and recreation: The geotourism renaissance in Dhaubadi area of Gandaki province, western Nepal
This study aims to assess new and known sites along the Kawasoti–Dhaubadi–Dedgaun–Kaligandaki route for geotourism potential based on regional geology, geomorphology, and socio-cultural factors. This study includes the methods to identify geosites, geoheritage, and geomorphosites of the area by field visits including data collection and mapping. It explores the diverse tectonic zones including Dun Valley, Siwalik and the Lesser Himalaya bound by significant tectonic features like the Central Churia Thrust, the Main Boundary Thrust, and the Devachuli Thrust. The presence of plant fossils in Siwalik and Gondwana rocks, the renowned Dhaubadi iron deposit, and coal seem to enhance the geotourism potential. The Ramche landslide can be emphasized as a site for landslide research. The region features from the lowland of Narayani River with the Chitwan National Park to the Ghoral Conservation Area at high hill morphology. The captivating experiences of the Dhaubadi area’s changing climate, panoramic mountain views, and the Kali Gandaki River enhance its charm parallelly with cultural and historical sites like Maharajathan, Devachuli temples, and Rudrapurgadi. The unique culture of the Tharu and Magar community and trekking sites like Dhaubadi and Devachuli hills boost the potential of the area. Overall, the study highlights the Dhaubadi area’s geotourism scenarios and proposed for in-situ geoconservation and geoparks development.
Spatial variation on hydrogeochemical parameter in the Hetauda Valley, central Nepal
Water is a requisite source for human survival, facing increasing issues and challenges in terms of both quantity and quality due to exacerbated global populations and urbanization trends. This increased demand has caused a decline in the overall availability and quality of water resources. Hetauda, serving as the administrative center of Bagmati Province, has emerged as a key destination for employment services along with a good potential zone for geotourism closely connected to its diverse geological features and water resources. However, excessive utilization, depletion, and extensive pollution of surface water sources in the region have underscored the importance of exploring groundwater for agricultural, and domestic needs along with decreasing the possibilities for geotourism. As the study area lies in the Hetauda Valley, to address this concern, water samples from 34 different sources such as dug wells, boreholes, and springs were collected. A thorough analysis of physicochemical parameters was conducted to evaluate water quality, revealing notable variations across locations, including the presence of iron and arsenic traces in specific samples. The Weighted Arithmetic Index Method was used to calculate the Water Quality Index (WQI) showing that certain water sources had very good quality while few weren’t appropriate for human consumption. The Piper diagram indicates the dominancy of calcium ions in cations and chloride in anions. The stiff diagram shows that the ions Na + K > Ca > Mg dominate the composition of the cations, whilst HCO₃⁻ > Cl⁻ > SO₄²⁻ dominates the anions. Besides, the multivariate statistical analysis through Principal Component Analysis was executed to support these hydrochemical findings. In conclusion, this research underscores the critical necessity for sustainable water management strategies in the study area, advocating for the prudent exploration of groundwater while addressing the challenges posed by contaminants, thus ensuring the availability of safe and sufficient water resources in the region.
The Al Wahbah Crater of Saudi Arabia and its geotourism potential
Krater maaru Al Wahbah w Harrat Kishb w zachodniej Arabii Saudyjskiej (2 km szerokości, 250 m głębokości), uformował się podczas freatycznej erupcji w plejstocenie. W otoczeniu krateru znajdują się czwartorzędowe i współczesne formy wulkaniczne, interesujące dla studentów nauk o Ziemi. Są to między innymi: warstwa wulkanoklastyczna, podniesiona krawędź krateru, pola scoria, oaza z naturalnym źródłem mineralnym, efemeryczne jezioro playa na dnie krateru i wcześniej istniejący wulkan, który został przecięty przez eksplozję. Warstwa scorii i popiołu jest pokryta młodszym bazaltowym potokiem lawy, który pokryty jest klasyczną skorupą law pahoehoe. Teren charakteryzuje się wyjątkowo pięknym krajobrazem, a obecnie rozwijana jest nowa infrastruktura dla geoturystów. Krater Al Wahbah znajduje się dwie godziny jazdy od międzynarodowego lotniska w Taif i można do niego łatwo dojechać główną autostradą wschód-zachód i utwardzonymi drogami lokalnymi.
A new partnership framework for education with geoparks at its core: a proposal through the evaluation of the school education program in Shikaoi, Japan
The primary objectives of geoparks are to conserve geoheritage, enhance public awareness and understanding of geoscience, and drive sustainable economic growth in local communities. Education acts as the cornerstone in achieving these three objectives, as it provides the necessary foundation for their realization. This study proposes a new educational framework to promote the sustainable development of geoparks by evaluating the effecacy of the past geoeducation program. Specifically, this study focused on the Tokachi-Shikaoi Geopark and Hokkaido Shikaoi High School. A mixed methodology was employed, including content analysis of the textbooks, online questionnaire surveys of high school students, and field interviews with key informants. The results revealed that while geoeducation with well-prepared textbooks was encouraged in schools in Shikaoi Town until 2018, there is a need to revitalize geopark education in an alternative way for the future. We proposed a new partnership framework for the educational program among the geopark, universities, elementary, junior high, and high schools, and other stakeholders to maximize the geopark resources in the proposed program through the effective use of existing textbook assets. The results of the questionnaire surveys found that not only indoor learning with textbooks, but also outdoor learning at geosites is important. The results of the interview survey suggested the need to offer training and support for schoolteachers. To address budget constraints, this study proposed the inclusion of support from universities and the introduction of e-textbooks featuring geopark-related knowledge. This study highlights the crucial role of education in promoting sustainable development in Tokachi-Shikaoi Geopark. The insights gained have broader implications for education in other geoparks, offering valuable guidance for enhancing the quality and effectiveness of education in geoparks.
Field trip – Outer Flysch Carpathians, Pieniny Klippen Belt (PKB), and Tatra Mountains
The 36th HKT Workshop (Himalaya-Karakorum- Tibet) is organised by the AGH University of Krakow, Poland. Kraków is situated at the front of the Carpathian orogenic system of the ancient Tethys Ocean and is perfect place for meeting between European-Asian Alpine-Himalayan orogenic belt with long history of the Western and Eastern Tethyan Ocean Realms. The 36th HKT Workshop concerns mainly on this first area and the meeting will be focused on Himalaya-Karakorum-Tibet regions but will be also concentrated (especially during field trip) on comparison between Asian (eastern) and European (western) parts of orogen and geotectonic events based on research of different branches of geology: stratigraphy, paleontology, sedimentology, paleogeography, structural geology, petrology, geochemistry, paleomagnetism, and geophysics. The 36th HKT Workshop is aimed to provide a forum for colleagues from America and Asian/European countries, to present their work and discuss their ideas covering various aspects of the development of the Eurasian Alpine history. We are glad that we can meet personally during the 36th HKT Workshop after the pandemic time, which disrupted our idea of regular, annual meetings. Simultaneously we are under IGCP 710 Project logo (Western Tethys meets Eastern Tethys – geodynamical, paleoceanographical and paleobiogeographical events), and we have now the chance to discuss face to face and go to the field together to touch Carpathian/“Tethyan” rocks for a better understanding of what happened hundreds/decades of millions years ago in our lovely ancient ocean. As you know, through your knowledge and experience, the Tethyan Ocean history, both in its western and eastern parts, is fascinating, but enigmatic from time to time, to say the least. Generally, the geological history of the Tethys Ocean is broadly established. Yet many details are still unknown and many major questions remain, related to geotectonics, palaeogeography, palaeoceanography and palaeobiogeography. Improved understanding of the Mesozoic-Cenozoic ocean/climate history is based on accurate reconstruction of the distribution of continents and ocean basins and on opening and closing of seaways along the Tethys. There is little or no agreement about the number or size of separate basins, nor on their space-time relationships. Moreover, there is no consensus on the number and location of former microcontinents and on their incorporation into the present-day Eurasian-Mountain Belt. Geologists studying individual parts of these belts have been educated within different geological systems and adhere to different geological paradigms. Correlation between Western and Eastern Tethys is difficult, not only because of the large distances involved, but also because they are separated by the area of the huge Himalayan collision within which much of the pre-Paleogene tectonostratigraphic information has been lost. On the one hand, UNESCO forms a special umbrella for the IGCP Projects, and on the other hand, it has been very active in supporting the ideas of “geoparks” and “geotourism” for years. For this reason, we decided to use an international magazine – “Geotourism” – to print the field trip guidebook [“Geotourism”, 2024, 76–77(1–2)]. We hope it will be useful for both Alpine-Himalayan/Tethyan friends and geotourism enthusiasts. Enjoy Kraków during the stationary part of the 36th HKT Workshop and the Polish-Slovak-Czech Carpathians during a 5-day field trip!
Field trip – Outer Flysch Carpathians and Pieniny Klippen Belt (PKB)
We are glad that we can meet personally during the 2nd Symposium of the IGCP 710 Project, after the pandemic time, which disrupted our idea of regular, annual meetings. After the 1st virtual meeting during the autumn of 2021, we have now the chance to discuss face to face and go to the field together to touch „Tethyan” rocks for a better understanding of what happened hundreds/decades of millions years ago in our lovely ancient ocean. As you know, through your knowledge and experience, the Tethyan Ocean history, both in its western and eastern parts, is fascinating, but enigmatic from time to time, to say the least. Generally, the geological history of the Tethys Ocean is broadly established. Yet many details are still unknown and many major questions remain, related to geotectonics, palaeogeography, palaeoceanography and palaeobiogeography. Improved understanding of the Mesozoic-Cenozoic ocean/climate history is based on accurate reconstruction of the distribution of continents and ocean basins and on opening and closing of seaways along the Tethys. There is little or no agreement about the number or size of separate basins, nor on their space-time relationships. Moreover, there is no consensus on the number and location of former micro-continents and on their incorporation into the present-day Eurasian-Mountain Belt. Geologists studying individual parts of these belts have been educated within different geological systems and adhere to different geological paradigms. Correlation between Western and Eastern Tethys is difficult, not only because of the large distances involved, but also because they are separated by the area of the huge Himalayan collision within which much of the pre-Paleogene tectonostratigraphic information has been lost. The aim of this IGCP project is to bring together geologists from the western and eastern parts of the former Tethys (Morocco/Iberia–SE Asia) to establish a common framework and a common tectonostratigraphic concept (latest Paleozoic–Mesozoic with emphasis on Permian–Jurassic). On the one hand, UNESCO forms a special umbrella for the IGCP Projects, and on the other hand, it has been very active in supporting the ideas of “geoparks” and “geotourism” for years. For this reason, we decided to use an international magazine – Geotourism – to print our materials, both abstracts and a field trip guidebook. We hope it will be useful for both Tethyan friends and geotourism enthusiasts. Enjoy Krakow during the stationary part of the Symposium and the Polish-Slovak-Czech Carpathians during a 5-day field trip!!
Prawa autorskie (c) 2023 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en
Second Symposium of the International Geosciences IGCP 710 Project Western Tethys meets Eastern Tethys
Inventory of geotouristic routes along the southern hills of the Kathmandu Valley
An inventory map of geotouristic sites was prepared on the scale of 1 : 5 000 along the Chandragiri-Chitlang Range, southwestern part of the Kathmandu Valley of central Nepal. From the ridges and peaks of the Chandragiri-Chitlang range, visitors can witness breathtaking views of the surrounding hills, modern buildings, and ancient temples of the Kathmandu Valley from a distance. The objective of the study was to explore the geotouristic sites around the Kathmandu Valley. For this purpose, all the available information related to geology, environment, geography, culture, religion, and other touristic components was reviewed thoroughly, and extensive fieldwork was carried out with the purpose of geological mapping and data collection. The Chandragiri-Chitlang range is a renowned place and open book not only for geologis ts but also for the nature lover, climbers, trekkers, photographers, videographers, cultural tourists, biologists, and ayurvedic and it has a great prospect for tourism due to its geomorphological variation, unique geological features, beautiful natural scene, unique trekking trails, culture, biodiversity, adventurous way, heritage, and historical sites. Major geotouristic sites, which attract tourists throughout the year in this range are the lush green Chandragiri Hill, Chandragiri Temple with children’s playground and exciting recreational equipment, snowfall, on the winter season, Chitlang Homestay, Chobhar Hill, Taudaha natural pond, Pharping Hill, Champadevi Temple, Gupteshwor cave, Chobhar cave, Thankot, and Matatirtha Temple, etc. Geologically, the study area comprises the lower four geological units of the Phulchoki Group of the Kathmandu Complex from older to younger sequences i.e. the Tistung Formation, the Sopyang Formation, the Chandragiri Limestone, and the Chitlang Formation along with alluvial fan deposits and Kathmandu Lake sediments. The basin of Kathmandu is filled with the lacustrine-fluvial deposits of ancient lakes followed by river deposits. The Chandragiri Thrust, Chitlang Syncline, Kirtipur Anticline are the major regional-scale geological structures within the study area. Unique old-fashioned footrail attracts tourists and increased the charm of traveling in this place. The homestays in Chitlang village, joyful of culture and environment, provide a tranquil retreat away from the bustling crowds of Kathmandu. Preparation of a tourist guidebook and planning and development from the perspective of a geotouristic approach is recommended after this research. Reconstruction and establishment of trekking foot trails and tourist information centers based on currently available natural and human resources without investing high costs can be carried out for sustainable tourism development in this range.
Educational trails of the Racławka Valley Nature Reserve and their potential for geoeducation
Dolina Racławki położona jest na zachód od Krakowa, na Wyżynie Krakowsko-Częstochowskiej. Stanowi ona obszar o dużej bio- i georóżnorodności, gdzie rozmaite skały o różnym wieku odsłaniają się w rozległych wyrobiskach, na ścianach wąwozów lub w postaci ostańców. Ze względu na bogactwo form morfologicznych i wykształcone na nich siedliska, większość doliny Racławki i przyległą, południową część doliny Szklarki objęto rezerwatem przyrody. Przez obszar rezerwatu prowadzą trzy ścieżki dydaktyczne łączące szereg geostanowisk. Koło Naukowe Geoturystyka (KNGt) z Akademii Górniczo-Hutniczej zbadało ich przydatność dla geoedukacji. Po dokonaniu waloryzacji geoturystycznej opracowano materiały dydaktyczne, a następnie po ścieżkach oprowadzono różne grupy wiekowe. Za pomocą quizów sprawdzono zrozumienie przez uczestników omawianych tematów, a opinie zebrano w formie ankiet. Działania te umożliwiły dokładne opisanie ścieżek oraz ich ocenę pod kątem trudności terenu, dostępności i infrastruktury. Każda ze ścieżek ma motyw przewodni, można je jednak z powodzeniem łączyć, by zaplanować trasę o określonej tematyce. KNGt przygotowało też trzy przewodniki geoturystyczne po dolinie Racławki, po jednym dla każdej ze ścieżek, w ramach Grantu Rektora AGH w latach 2018–2020.
The geotouristic potential of the scenic underground routes in the “Wieliczka” and “Bochnia” Salt Mines (Carpathian Foredeep)
Artykuł poświęcony jest analizie porównawczej potencjału geoturystycznego pięciu tras podziemnych zabytkowych kopalń soli w Wieliczce i Bochni. Dwie z nich (turystyczna i górnicza) znajdują się w Wieliczce, a trzy pozostałe (multimedialna turystyczna i dwie górnicze: historyczna i przyrodnicza) w Bochni. Prowadzą one fragmentami dawnych wyrobisk kopalnianych. Opisywane złoża solne mają postać ewaporatowej formacji powstałej w miocenie, wchodzącej w skład zapadliska przedkarpackiego. Ocena porównawcza potencjału geoturystycznego poszczególnych tras została dokonana z uwzględnieniem potrzeb turystów, nauczycieli i inwestorów. Wzięto pod uwagę także dane statystyczne dotyczące frekwencji turystów w omawianych obiektach dla kilku ostatnich lat. Ogólnie rzecz biorąc, zainteresowanie opisywanymi trasami podziemnymi systematycznie wzrasta do chwili obecnej, co jest skutkiem zwiększającej się z biegiem czasu popularności dziedzictwa przemysłowego w Wieliczce i Bochni, zarówno w Polsce, jak i na całym świecie.
The Geotourism Students’ Scientific Club and 18 years of its activity at AGH University of Science and Technology
The Geotourism Students’ Scientific Club (GSSC) is operating at the Department of General Geology and Geotourism of AGH University of Science and Technology (AGH UST), bringing together young enthusiasts of Earth sciences, at the Faculty of Geology, Geophysics and Environmental Protection. It has been operating continuously since 2003. The primary objective of the GSSC is to arouse interest in scientific work in the field of Earth sciences, as well as to popularise geotourism in the student community. The article reviews the most important achievements, events and activities documenting the long-term accomplishments of the GSSC. The greatest successes of the GSSC include the implementation of five rector’s grants and active participation in national and international scientific conferences. It is worth noting, that the GSSC organises its own “Geotourism” conference session as a part of the Conference of Student Special Interest Groups of the Mining Division. The members of the GSSC promote geology and geodiversity, explaining it in a manner which is comprehensible to an average person. Over the last dozen or so years, they have undertaken various activities, and some of them have become a tradition. Themed evenings and meetings with experts “That’s how it’s done!” attract a large audience from the university and beyond. Annual domestic and foreign educational and sightseeing trips, culminating in a trip to Iceland in 2022, have become an integral part of the GSSC activities.
Residual rocky forms in the landscape of the Outer Carpathians (Silesian Beskid Mts, Poland) – geotourist and sedimentological case study
Przedmiotem artykułu są ostańcowe formy terenu rozwinięte na bazie fliszowego podłoża skalnego w zachodnich Karpatach zewnętrznych jako skałki od piaskowcowych do zlepieńcowych. Omówione ostańcowe formy skałkowe lokalnie eksponowane są na stokach dolinnych w przyszczytowych i wierzchowinowych partiach Beskidu Śląskiego. Walory poznawcze, jakie ze sobą niosą, w szczególności w kontekście morfogenetycznym oraz kształtowania ich makro- i mikroreliefu, są dobrze poznane i opisane. W przeciwieństwie do procesów epigenetycznych aspekt sedymentologiczny pochodzenia takich silikoklastycznych utworów skałkowych jest natomiast nadal przedmiotem dociekań zarówno w kwestii terminologicznej, jak i interpretacyjnej. Celem badawczym artykułu jest zatem próba przybliżenia warunków środowiskowych ustawień, natury procesów transportu i depozycji osadów ze spływów grawitacyjnych oraz modelu systemu depozycyjnego takiej odmiany utworów fliszowych. Zamierzeniem autora było także przedstawienie geoturystycznej i geoedukacyjnej atrakcyjności skałek na tle regionalnej georóżnorodności, geodziedzictwa i ich geoochrony. W rezultacie przedstawiono w ujęciu syntetycznym specyfikację morfologiczną, litologiczną, sedymentologiczną i geoturystyczną badanych form skałkowych. Ostańcowe skałkowe formy terenu stanowią poligeniczne elementy geomorfologiczne rozwinięte w następstwie wieloetapowej i różnoskalowej działalności rzeźbotwórczej zachodzącej w utworach o określonych uwarunkowaniach litologiczno-sedymentologicznych i tektonicznych za pośrednictwem procesów denudacji.
The development of tourism in the Historical Silver Mine and the groundwater management system in Tarnowskie Góry – a case study of mining heritage tourism
This article presents the values of the Silesian mining heritage in the context of accessibility of the Zabytkowa Kopalnia Srebra (Historical Silver Mine) in the Tarnowskie Góry. Simultaneously, this is the largest, best-preserved and accessible historical lead-silver mine in Poland with its unique, integrated historical groundwater management system of drainage adits and a potable water supply network. In this area, industrial heritage is now becoming a precious touristic and cultural value in and of itself. The scope of the article includes the characterization of all objects added to the UNESCO World Heritage List, the description of ground and underground tourist trails and the history of their accessibility. Not all underground workings have been included into the tourist trail, due to their preservation conditions, accessibility and mine safety measures. The paper also presents a multi-faceted evaluation of the accessibility to all objects of mining heritage, including sites that are currently inaccessible, but still have the potential for tourism development.
Stratovolcanoes on the Chilean-Bolivian border as geoatraction
The cluster of stratovolcanoes located on the Chilean-Bolivian border, in the Western Cordillera, is composed of typical, for that part of the Central Volcanic Zone in the Andes, volcanic landforms. The highest volcano is the Nevado Sajama (6,542 m a.s.l.), apparently extinct. The other: Parinacota (6,336 m a.s.l.), Pomerape (6,222 m a.s.l.), Acotango (6,052 m a.s.l.) and Cerro Quisiquisini (5,542 m a.s.l.) were all active in both the Pleistocene and the Holocene. Recently, only the Guallatiri Volcano (6,071 m a.s.l.) is still active. The summits of these mountains are covered with permanent snow or ice caps. On the slopes, there are post-glacial valleys, rocks glaciers and debris avalanches. In the vicinity of volcanic cones, active fumaroles occur, along with hot springs, geysers and high-mountain peat bogs (bofedales), in addition to one of the highest in the world mountain lakes – the Lago Chungará (4,520 m a.s.l.). The unique landform is a huge debris avalanche and was formed during the eruption of the Parinacota Volcano. Small villages settled by Aymara Indians and their cultural monuments complete the extraordinary landscape of the Altiplano Plateau. The values of biotic nature are also unique and deserving of protection on both sides of the state border. Moreover, these sites have been registered into the UNESCO World Heritage List. Modest accommodation facilities located off the main roads satisfy the qualified tourists interested in volcanology. The authors describe the grueling trekking trails, the climbing routes leading to the summits of volcanoes and the other geoattractions, accessible for ordinary hikers.
Geotouristic attractiveness of the show caves of the Kraków-Częstochowa Upland area
Artykuł został poświęcony analizie zróżnicowania podziemnych form krasowych na przykładzie sześciu jaskiń Wyżyny Krakowsko- -Częstochowskiej dostępnych do zwiedzania, jako bardzo istotnych podziemnych atrakcji geoturystycznych. Należą do nich Smocza Jama w Krakowie, jaskinie Łokietka i Ciemna w Ojcowie, Jaskinia Wierzchowska Górna w Wierzchowiu, Jaskinia Nietoperzowa-Zygmunta w Jerzmanowicach, położone w południowej części Wyżyny Krakowsko-Częstochowskiej, i Jaskinia Głęboka, usytuowana w północnej części tej krainy. Poszczególne obiekty znajdują się na obszarze monokliny śląsko-krakowskiej. Powstały w oksfordzkich wapieniach skalistych. Ich szata naciekowa jest bardzo malownicza i zróżnicowana. Wewnątrz i/lub na zewnątrz trzech z nich wyeksponowano także skamieniałości, szczątki zwierząt oraz ślady prehistorycznej cywilizacji odkryte przez naukowców. Atrakcyjność geoturystyczna wymienionych jaskiń została określona na podstawie wyników waloryzacji geoturystycznej przeprowadzonej w przypadku każdej z nich, z uwzględnieniem potrzeb turystów, edukatorów i inwestorów. Wzięto pod uwagę także dane statystyczne dotyczącefrek wencji turystów w określonych okresach w tych obiektach. Ogólnie rzecz biorąc, zainteresowanie opisywanymi jaskiniami systematycznie wzrasta do chwili obecnej. Stopniowo zyskują one na popularności w całej Polsce, a Smocza Jama (zwiedzana zwykle razem z Zamkiem Królewskim na Wawelu) oraz Jaskinia Łokietka są znane również na całym świecie.
Prawa autorskie (c) 2022 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en
Geoturystyczna ścieżka rowerowa wokół Nowego Targu (Karpaty, Polska)
Prezentowane okolice Nowego Targu zlokalizowane są w obrębie północnego obrzeżenia Kotliny Orawsko-Nowotarskiej oraz na południowych zboczach Gorców w polskim sektorze Karpat Zewnętrznych. Obszar ten zbudowany jest z późnokredowo-paleogeńskich utworów turbidytowych reprezentujących sukcesję osadową podjednostki krynickiej płaszczowiny magurskiej oraz lądowe osady neogeńsko- czwartorzędowe wypełniające Kotlinę Orawsko-Nowotarską. Formacja magurska w opisywanym terenie reprezentowana jest przez gruboławicowe piaskowce formacji magurskiej oraz cienko- i średnioławicowe utwory piaskowcowo-łupkowe formacji malcowskiej, które odsłaniają się w licznych odkrywkach, w szczególności w obrębie doliny potoku Łopuszna. W miocenie utwory płaszczowiny magurskiej zostały sfałdowane i pocięte systemem uskoków. Obszar ten ma urozmaiconą rzeźbę i malownicze krajobrazy. Jednocześnie występujące tu rzadkie gatunki fauny i flory, wciąż żywa kultura górali podhalańskich oraz coraz lepsza infrastruktura turystyczna sprzyjają rozwojowi geoturystyki w tym obszarze. Dodatkowo obszar ten jest coraz bardziej popularnym miejscem wśród rowerzystów, dzięki rozwojowi sieci ścieżek rowerowych, dlatego też proponowana geoturystyczna trasa rowerowa będzie poszerzeniem oferty dla tej grupy turystów.
Obszar geoedukacji Owadów-Brzezinki w Sławnie
Geoedukacyjny ośrodek (zwany też „Geoparkiem Owadów-Brzezinki”) znajdujący się na północno-zachodnim obrzeżeniu Gór Świętokrzyskich (synklina tomaszowska) w gminie Sławno (województwo łódzkie) został utworzony w czerwcu 2019 roku w bliskim sąsiedztwie kamieniołomu Owadów-Brzezinki. Stanowisko to jest jednym z ważniejszych odkryć paleontologicznych ostatnich lat z terenu Polski. Ośrodek obejmuje pawilon wystawowy, ścieżki edukacyjne oraz platformę widokową umiejscowioną w bezpośrednim sąsiedztwie kamieniołomu. W powstałym pawilonie paleontologicznym wyeksponowano unikatowe skamieniałości późnojurajskich zwierząt morskich i lądowych, w tym gatunki dotychczas nieznane, które zostały odkryte w kamieniołomie podczas ośmiu minionych lat. Do najważniejszych skamieniałości należą amonity, homaropodobne skorupiaki, skrzypłocze, ryby kostnoszkieletowe, żółwie skrytoszyjne, ichtiozaury, a także małe lądowe krokodylomorfy, pterozaury i owady. Oprócz oryginalnych skamieniałości w muzeum wyeksponowane są naturalnych rozmiarów rekonstrukcje zwierząt, które zamieszkiwały lokalne morza i wyspy w późnej jurze. Stanowisko paleontologiczne Owadów-Brzezinki jest określane jako nowe „okno tafonomiczne” późnej jury, ukazujące zapis ewolucji życia na Ziemi w kontekście paleogeograficznym i paleośrodowiskowym.
Prawa autorskie (c) 2021 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en
The geotouristic attractiveness of the underground trails in Zabrze, Dąbrowa Górnicza and Tarnowskie Góry towns (Silesian Upland)
In Zabrze, Dąbrowa Górnicza and Tarnowskie Góry towns, seven underground tourist trails are located in historical mines. Four of them were developed in the central part of the Upper Silesian Coal Basin, two of which, at the “Królowa Luiza” (“Queen Louise”) Adit (comprising the former coal mine “Królowa Luiza” and the drainage Main Key Hereditary Adit remnant), and two others at the “Guido” Mine in Zabrze town. The next one was developed in the eastern part of the Upper Silesian Coal Basin, in a part of the “Sztygarka” Training Coal Mine in Dąbrowa Górnicza. Two other trails are located in Tarnowskie Góry town, in the border zone between the Upper Silesian Coal Basin and the Silesian-Kraków Monocline. These are the relics of the historical lead, zinc and silver ore mine, and the “Czarny Pstrąg” (“Black Trout”) drainage adit. The bituminous coal deposits are hosted in the Upper Carboniferous clastic formations, which fills the Upper Silesian Coal Basin. The metal ores are hosted in Middle Triassic dolomites, which belong to the southern margin of the Silesian-Kraków Monocline. The geotourism attractiveness of all these historical mines was demonstrated by selected annual statistical data of tourist attendance. In general, the interest in these facilities has been growing since decades, same as the popularity of industrial heritage in the Upper Silesia. These three towns have become very widely known in Poland and in the world.
Not simply volcanoes – The Geoheritage of the Cretaceous System in the Land of the Extinct Volcanoes Geopark, West Sudetes (SW Poland)
Volcanic geoheritage is emphasized as the main asset and distinctive characteristic of the Land of Extinct Volcanoes Geopark in the West Sudetes (SW Poland). However, the geoheritage values of the region are not limited to the legacy of ancient volcanism but include various other elements. This paper explores the contribution of geosites that expose sedimentary rocks of Cretaceous age and landforms developed upon these rocks. Six localities from the Geopark area, included in the comprehensive regional inventory of geosites, are presented. They represent natural and man-made sandstone outcrops and show, among others, lithological variations, small- and large-scale post-sedimentary deformation structures, landforms arising from differential weathering (rock shelters, honeycombs), boulder fields and a sandstone xenolith in volcanic rocks. Next, five localities from outside the Geopark, but still within the Pogórze Kaczawskie region, are described. Qualitative and quantitative evaluation of both groups is attempted, and the results show that, in general, geosites within the Geopark rank higher. However at least two from the other group also have significant geotourist potential. Finally, a brief comparative analysis with other parts of the Sudetes, where Cretaceous sedimentary rocks occur, is offered.
The Paleozoic formations of the Al Qassim Province in Saudi Arabia as potential sites for geotourism
The Paleozoic formations in the Middle East contain some of the world’s richest petroleum deposits, as they include excellent source and reservoir rocks. The Paleozoic rocks were deposited on the northern continental shelf of the Gondwanan continent at relatively high latitudes, and provide evidence of the Late Ordovician glacial event and associated sea-level changes. They also contain unique fossil remains. The Paleozoic formations exposed in the Al-Qassim province in Saudi Arabia are well-suited to become important sites for geotourism. Because the sedimentary formations are well-exposed and are easily accessible, they have strong capacity for development as tourist destinations. In this paper, we describe eight localities and their significance as potential educational sites for geology and palaeontology, as well as the archeological and economic significance of the Paleozoic formations of Saudi Arabia. The cultural and tourist infrastructure is summarised and a two-day field excursion is proposed.
Prawa autorskie (c) 2020 GEOTOURISM (Geoturystyka) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en
Land of Extinct Volcanoes Geopark – geoeducation for everyone
The Kaczawskie Mountains and Foothills – Geopark Land of Extinct Volcanoes is an area with an extremely interesting geological structure and outstanding landscape values. Great geo-diversity makes it possible to prepare a geoeducation offer for practically every recipient – from kids, through adults interested in natural sciences, to natural science students. The characteristics of the Kaczawskie Mountains and Foothills enable one to develop a nationally unique form of geotourism and utilization of local natural resources for various geoeducation programs. Despite the small area of the mentioned region, it is possible to raise topics related to volcanic phenomena, the formation of mountain ranges, climate change and the impact of glaciers on the relief of the terrain. Educational activity at the Geopark Land of Extinct Volcanoes do not need to be limited only to geological issues, but may also include environmental issues, waste management or even historical topics. However, apart from the very existence of geotourism attractions, equally important are their uniform promotion and dissemination of knowledge about them. This can be done by describing the most important geopoints in the field, e.g. through a network of educational boards or by organizing promotional field trips. This would increase the knowledge about the geological richness of the described region among tourists and residents. The work of the Kaczawskie Association, which is trying to include the Land of Extinct Volcanoes Geopark in the UNESCO World Geopark Network, is currently heading in this direction. The implementation of this initiative will not only increase the interest in natural sciences and the region, but will also allow it to keep its authentic and unique character. Unfortunately, the process of application to the UNESCO GGN, both the development of the geoeducation and geotourism in the region of the Kaczawskie Mountains and Foothills, has been slowed down by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Prawa autorskie (c) 2021 GEOTOURISM (Geoturystyka) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en
Geoproduct potential analysis based on the example of the GEOsfera Ecological and Geological Education Center in Jaworzno
At the time of discovering and exposing the scientific and educational potential of areas where mineral resources were exploited in the past, they have become a significant element in tourism elements. In the presented paper, the potential of the GEOsfera Ecological and Geological Education Centre in Jaworzno as a geoproduct was analysed. In the first part of the study, based on the published works and consultations with experts, the “geoproduct” was defined. Then the area, where the GEOsphere is located, was characterized. Its geology, the natural world, the way of land development and the promotion of geo-attractions located in this area are described. In the next stage, an analysis of the opinions of users regarding their perception of the GEOsphere was carried out. For this purpose, evaluations posted on social media and the collected survey results were used. As shown by the results, the majority of users of the GEOsfera are residents of Jaworzno – 63% of the respondents. The importance of the GEOsphere as an educational centre was indicated by 22% of visitors. About 5% of the respondents mentioned learning and obtaining information from the descriptions placed next to the exhibits in the centre. 93% of respondents recognised the graduation tower as the greatest attraction of the GEOsphere. Over 92% of people noticed the recreational role of the GEOsphere. 81% of users declared that they were satisfied with their visit to the GEOsphere. More than half of the respondents (56%) visited the GEOsfera with their family. A significant part of respondents (42%), pointed to the role of environmental protection, which is extremely important from the point of view of geoproducts’ design. The respondents also indicated that the GEOsphere has numerous geological, natural and educational functions and protects and promotes the geological heritage of the region.
The influence of lithology and tectonics on the development of the karst landscape in the Dong Van Global Geopark, NE Vietnam
The Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark is located in the mountainous area of the northern part of Vietnam. It became the 77th member of the Global Geoparks Network in 2010. The Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark is a unique combination of breathtaking scenery and culture of ethnic groups, with many potential values such as its geoheritage, biological diversity and historical places, which attract many domestic and foreign visitors. Up to 60% of the area of this geopark is covered by karst. Its topography is strongly dissected by deep river gorges with steep slopes, and this area has experienced several deformational phases from the Middle Cambrian/Early Ordovician, to the Cenozoic. These elements contributed to the breathtaking scenery of the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, the first global geopark in Vietnam and the second in South-East Asia.
Prawa autorskie (c) 2018 GEOTOURISM (Geoturystyka)
Mining tourism and the search for its origins
The article defines concepts related to mining tourism and the reasons why some destinations are chosen as the sites of hundreds of thousands of visitors per year, while others are only visited by “regional fans” of mining history. The authors attempt to ask questions, which will be clarified by formulating a better definition and understanding of mining tourism. Issues discussed include marketing and management of mining tourism, as well as tourists’ preferences. The article focuses on definitions of different forms of tourism, to ultimately argue that mining tourism is a separate type of tourism. A substantial part of the article is devoted to historical personalities, whose activities and interests in historic mining regions of present-day Slovakia can be considered as the beginnings of mining tourism.
Prawa autorskie (c) 2019 GEOTOURISM (Geoturystyka)
Quest for the Lost World, or palaeontological geotourism
Palaeontological geotourism could be one of many forms of propagating geological values of a country. It can meet the expectations of many tourists. For this broad category of people, paleontological tourism can instill curiosity about the extinct world, offering them places where they can feel like explorers, visiting these sites with a hammer and a chisel. Many of them will cherish the memories of adventures made during the search in the future, and some will find a new passion. Similar practices are used in Germany, for example, in Solnhofen or Holzmaden, where fossil exploration is available for a small fee. In most regions of Poland, you can find numerous places with fossils that anyone can search for. The greatest number of such sites can be found in the south of Poland, in the uplands and mountains, but also at the seaside, where the practice of palaeontological geotourism is possible. In the Holy Cross Mountains, the Sudetes, or in the Silesian-Cracow region, there are places where one finds fossils of plants or animals, including trace fossils. The only effort required in addition to the search for fossils is to develop guidelines and prepare guides for amateurs that quest for the lost world.
Rocky forms in the Yamna Sandstone (Skyba Nappe, Outer Carpathians, Ukraine)
Interesting objects – the rocky forms and waterfall thresholds, built of Yamna Sandstone occur in the vicinity of Skole town. Beside the esthetic positive aspects related the morphological variety of the rocky forms and occurrence of the diversified weathering structures, the objects have a substantial cognitive value encompassing the lithology and sedimentological processes of the thick-bedded turbidites. The sandstone rocky forms usually occur in the groups distributed on slopes and forming so-called rocky towns. Their number and distribution allow observation of the changing structural and textural features both lateral and vertical within the 100-m thick composed profiles. The excellent degree of rocks outcropping, variety of structural and textural features and spectrum of possible observations indicates the high geotouristic potential of the investigated objects.