Background and Objective: This study evaluated the geotourism capabilities and potentials of Nir County, located in Ardabil Province. This county has high geotourism capabilities due to its location on the slopes of Sabalan and Bozqosh. The development of the geotourism industry in this county can be a driver of sustainable economic development in the region. The purpose of this study is to analyze the geotourism and geomorphological potentials of Nir County in Ardabil Province.
Methodology: In Nir County, there are two geotourism axes: Bulaghlar and Saein. In the present study, the geotourism capabilities of the aforementioned axes were evaluated using two models: Kobalikwa and Feyolt. The aforementioned models have numerous indicators that, in addition to geological-geomorphological aspects, also consider other factors such as cultural-historical monuments, access, management, and vulnerability.
Findings and Results: The evaluation of geotourism axes using the aforementioned models showed that the Bulaghlar region has higher geotourism potential for several reasons. In this context, we can mention geomorphological diversity (geodiversity), the presence of numerous hot springs, beautiful and lush nature, proximity to the Nirchai and Balikhlochai rivers, proximity to the city of Nir, easier access, the presence of cultural-historical monuments, the display of local traditions through the holding of numerous festivals, favorable access to the Sabalan ranges, and similar cases. For this reason, the Bulaghlar region obtained higher scores in relation to most of the indicators of the models used. According to the results of the models, it can be said that two basic challenges, including the lack of protective measures and the limited infrastructure and service-welfare facilities, are among the most important obstacles to the development of the geotourism industry in Nir county.
Conclusion: The results show that the development of tourism and geotourism in Nir County is generally one-dimensional and that various aspects of geotourism such as scientific values, geomorphological diversity, geomorphological conservation, and sustainable development have been neglected. However, a multidimensional view of the geotourism industry with a conservation approach along with the development of infrastructure and facilities can significantly develop the tourism industry and transform the regional economy.