The Concept of the Geotourism Potential and Its Practical Application: A Case Study of the Prządki (the Spinners) Nature Reserve in the Carpathians, Poland

Abstract

This paper reviews the recent use of the term “geotourism potential” in the scientific literature and proposes a new approach to the concept of geotourism potential. The concept assumes that every geotourism object has the well-developed features that allow one to learn and understand the object’s structure, genesis and properties. A method for the application of this concept to any geotourism object is proposed. The procedure and guidelines for the compilation of geotourism potential are applied on the example—the Prządki Nature Reserve in the Flysch Carpathians, Poland. Based on the field research, the research results of other scientists, and the internationally accepted definitions of terms connected with geotourism, a definition of geotourism potential is presented for the first time in academic literature. The main results emphasize that only clearly exposed features within the geotourism object relate to geotourism potential, while educational potential and tourist infrastructure are not to be identified with this potential. The inclusion of a new procedure for use in geotourism research provides a comprehensive approach to the inventory of geotourism objects and the educational use of abiotic elements of nature, as well as biotic and cultural aspects related to geoheritage. The presented model has practical application in the design of geoeducational materials.

Current paleoanthropology and paleoarchaeology in the museums of Poland in the tourism context. Invisible heritage?

“…In the case of caves whose palaeoanthropological and palaeoarchaeological context is not directly recorded in the form of a site, and where the objects found have been deposited in museums, it is necessary to authenticate the distant past in the landscape using display tools similar to the geotourism that is thriving today. In geotourism, special emphasis is placed on the illustrative (demonstrative), cognitive qualities of unique, rare landscape forms, representative of specific geological, geomorphological (and other) processes (Welc and Miśkiewicz 2020). Presented in a broader context, the final goal is to increase visitors' awareness of the complexity and beauty of the Earth's heritage, the human impact on the environment, and vice versa.…”

Proposal for a Mining-Touristic Route in Parque Minero Industrial Mochuelo Bajo, Bogota. A Look from the Environmental, Social and Productive Factor

“…In order to identify this potential in the MIP Mochuelo in Bogotá , the research was conducted based on Kubalí ková [19] methodology, which proposes a qualitative evaluation of the potential in the area, through the analysis of interdisciplinary categories that evaluate the geological, geomorphological, ecological, hydrological, historical, cultural scientific and conservative potential of an area. This methodology has been implemented by researchers such as Doucek and Josef [20], Ésik et al [21], Kubalí ková et al [22], Paskova et al [23], Paskova and Josef [24], Welc and Miśkiewicz [25] in countries such as Poland, Brazil, Czech Republic and Hungary.…”

Geoturism and Its Sustainable Products in Destination Management

“…Geotourism allows visitors to get to know the local geology, but also to better understand that this geology is closely related to all other assets of the territory (for example, biodiversity, archaeological and cultural values, gastronomy, etc.) (Welc and Miśkiewicz, 2020). Geotourism is a relatively new form of tourism, growing in popularity and becoming a new global phenomenon.…”