Document Type : Article extracted from dissertations
Authors
1
Professor of the Department of Natural Geography (Geomorphology), Faculty of Social Sciences, Mohaghegh Ardabili University, Ardabil. Iran.
2
Master field of ecotourism, Faculty of Social Sciences, Mohaghegh Ardabili University, Ardabil. Iran
3
PhD in Climate, Faculty of Social Sciences ,Mohaghegh Ardabili University, Ardabil. Iran.
4
Department of Geography and Urban Planning, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran
Abstract
Background and Objective: Parsabad County, due to its diverse natural features and tourism attractions, has considerable potential for attracting both domestic and international tourists. However, inadequate introduction and promotion, insufficient access roads and directional signage, and limited infrastructure and accommodation facilities have resulted in many of its scenic areas remaining largely unknown, even to domestic visitors. Consequently, tourism activities in the region have not developed optimally. The present study aims to assess the ecotourism potential of Parsabad County with a focus on geomorphosites, including Oltan Castle, Qarlooja Tower, Aras National Park, Naderi Hill, and Qerkh-Pelleh, in order to enhance tourism development and attraction.
Methodology: This research is applied in nature and adopts a mixed methodological approach combining theoretical studies and field surveys. The evaluation of geomorphosites was conducted using the Pereira model, which enables a systematic assessment of scientific, aesthetic, cultural, and management values.
Findings and Conclusion: The results indicate that the evaluated geomorphosites obtained the following scores: Oltan Castle (11.45), Qarlooja Tower (11.165), Aras National Park (12.7), Naderi Hill (12.31), and Qerkh-Pelleh (13.7). Based on these scores, Qerkh-Pelleh ranked first, followed by Aras National Park in second place, while Naderi Hill, Oltan Castle, and Qarlooja Tower ranked third to fifth, respectively. Overall, the findings demonstrate the high ecotourism potential of Parsabad County. The results can provide scientific support for tourism managers and planners to develop effective strategies for sustainable tourism development and improved tourist attraction in the region
.Keywords :Ecotourism, Geo-tourism, Pars Abad City, Pereira model.
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