Geotourism development in the archipelago () as an environmental awareness tool

Eva Almeida Lima1,2, Marisa Machado2, João Carlos Nunes1,2 e-mail: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected]

notes 1 Azores University, Geosciences Department, Azores Islands, Portugal 2 Azores Geopark Association, Azores Islands, Portugal

Lima, E. A., Machado, M., & Nunes, J. C. (2013). Geotourism development in the Azores archipelago (Portugal) as an environ- mental awareness tool. Czech Journal of , 2(2), 126-142, DOI: 10.2478/cjot-2013-0007.

Abstract

The Azores archipelago is distinguished by its unique natural beauty and marine setting. Thanks to its volcanic ori- gin, the region has a very rich and remarkable geodiversity that includes a diversity of landscapes with innumerable craters, volcanic lakes, fumaroles, hot springs, volcanic caves, marine fossil deposits and thermal water springs. The recognition of this valuable geological heritage came with the recent integration of the Azores Geopark into the European and Global Geopark Networks. The pressure that the increasing development of tourism have been exerting on these geological sites for the last years, and the need to create alternative forms of tourism, which contribute towards the socio-economic development in rural areas, have highlighted the importance of geotourism as a tool to promote and preserve the geological heritage of the Azores. Geotourism has turned to be an important instrument of environmental aware- ness through the local and foreign people.

Keywords

Geotourism, Azores archipelago, volcanic islands, geolandscapes, environmental awareness

JEL classification: Q01, L83 / Accepted: 5 November 2013

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CJT_02_2013.indd 126 8.1.2014 15:21:15 CJT_02_2013.indd 127 ducts canbedeveloped. for use sustainable where several activities can and be associatedperformed tourist pro- lopment of geotourism in the archipelago and they present a the maincomponent oftheAzorean (Nunes tourist et industry al.,2011). Tourism, is a tourist product defined as strategic for the Azores within the National Strategic Plan for tourism,offer. natureAzores The the environment that natural unique the in activities forsea surrounding the mere contemplation, enjoyment foror differentof practice the great attractiveness anda geotouristic potential. the of ex-libris main Azoresthe archipelago togetherare with its scenic heritage and aesthetic geological characteristics and attributes and of natural its and nature rare The Introduction municipalities and156 parisheswitha populationof247,066 (year inhabitants 2011). 19has archipelago The 1). (Figure inhabited them of all islands) Maria Santa and guel Mi- (São Group Eastern the and islands) Faial and Pico Jorge, São (Terceira, , Group Central the islands), Corvo and (Flores Group Western the groups: three into 1,815aredivided islands The fromCanada). km Portugalfrom 2,625 mainland km and islands) and for its distance from the European and American continents Corvo (at and distances of Maria Santa between Atlantic, the in km 600 approximately along tributed the reduced dimension of the islands (between 17 and 745 sq. km), by its dispersion (dis- 2,324 sq. km of land surface and 938,000 sq. km of marine area and it is characterized by and 41º North Latitude and 24º and 33º West Longitude. It has 36º an between administrative Ocean area Atlantic of the in located seafloor, surrounding the and islets several a is archipelago Azores The Azores volcaniclandscape 3 the Azoresarein The pelago. pment ofgeotourism inthearchipelago hasasa tool for environmental awareness Azores and potentialGeopark entities highlighting and the of partners opportunity the develo- the of contributions the featured also are There geotourism. of development Netherlands. group, followed by touristssecond from Finland, the this United States of America, leading Sweden and the Germans the with foreigners, are half other the and archipelago) rism nights.Abouthalfofthemare Portuguesetou- tourists (from themainlandorMadeira 1,077,420 to correspond which arrivals, tourism 360,265 were there 2012 in pt), andNorth Portugal Algarve after (mainland). in nationalterms Tourism is one of the sectors with a with sectors the of Tourismone is The volcanic landscapes of the Azores are, thus, the main motto of interest and deve- and landscapes volcanic the for looking are region this of visitors Traditionally,the There are presented the natural characteristics of the archipelago that provide the provide that archipelago the of characteristics natural the presented are There www.srea.ine. on available (data Service Regional Statistics Azorean the According Eva AlmeidaLima/MarisaMachadoJoãoCarlosNune•GeotourismdevelopmentintheAzores archipelago ... major one of the main tourist products of the region and is, without doubt, Portuguese autonomous region composed of nine islands, nine of composed region autonomousPortuguese rd place in the ranking of the growth the touristicactivity of ranking the in place high development potential in the Azores archiAzores- the in potentialdevelopment high (126—142)

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notes Eva Almeida Lima / Marisa Machado / João Carlos Nune • Geotourism development in the Azores archipelago ...

The geographic location of the Azores, between the European and American conti- nents, makes this Atlantic territory a true “bridge between two continents”!

Figure 1 Azores geographic setting notes

Source: Lima, et al. (2009)

The islands emerge from the seafloor at 2,000 meters deep, associated with the triple junction of the Euroasian, North American and African (or Nubian) lithospheric plates (Nunes, 1991; França, et al., 2003; Garcia-Talavera, 2003), and presenting elements close- ly linked to the dynamics of the Planet Earth, the volcanism and geotectonic. The Azores archipelago integrates, together with Madeira, Canary and Cape Verde ar- chipelagos, the biogeographic region of Macaronesia, which means “fortunate islands”. Thanks to its volcanic origin, the archipelago has a very rich and remarkable geodi- versity with a wide range of landscapes, forms and structures derived from the types of eruptions, its dynamics and the subsequent actions of weather and erosion (Nunes, 2002). Because of its peculiar geological features and setting, the Azores are a true natu- ral laboratory for volcanic geodiversity (França, et al., 2003). The recognition of the international relevance of the geological heritage of the territo- ry, its scientific, scenic and educational value, the high number and quality of its geosites and the undoubted importance of its geological heritage, came with the creation of the Azores Geopark, supported with a major effort of the Azores Regional Government to

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CJT_02_2013.indd 128 8.1.2014 15:21:16 CJT_02_2013.indd 129 Figure 2Azoresgeosites in alltheislands(Nunes, et al.,2011). motion strategies, and iv) based on a and eruptive histories of about 10 million years, iii) geological with common and conservation pro its - reflects that ii) territory, Azorean the characterizes that geodiversity the of representativeness the ensures that i) 2): (Figure seafloor surrounding the and lands (EGN andGGN). Lima, et al., 2009), and its integration into the European and Global Geopark Networks 2008; al., et (Costa, policies education environmental and geoconservation implement the archipelago. of potential geotouristic huge the reflecting and campaigns touristic the in sold image andmysteriousand theirfantastic volcanic phenomenaare still active. Source: Nunes,etal.(2011) The Azores Geopark is based on a on based is Geopark Azores The The volcanic landscape is the main attraction of the touristic promotion, being the being promotion, touristic the of attraction main the is landscape volcanic The appealing aesthetically are they because attractive are geosites Azorean the of Most Eva AlmeidaLima/MarisaMachadoJoãoCarlosNune•GeotourismdevelopmentintheAzores archipelago ... decentralized management decentralized structure with support network of 121 geosites dispersed by the nine is- nine the by dispersed 121geosites of network (126—142)

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Geotouristic potential The natural landscapes of the archipelago reflect a high geodiversity, associated with a rich biodiversity with an unquestionable aesthetic beauty, which fascinates local population and visitors, being the starting point for the development of geotourism (Figure 3).

Figure 3 Azorean geolandscapes: (a) - Capelinhos volcano (), (b) - Caldeira (Graciosa island), (c) - Rocha dos Bordões (), (d) - Caldeirão ()

(a) (b) notes

(c) (d)

Source: Azores Geopark

Since the discovery and settlement of the Azores in the middle of the 15th century the geolandscapes have been important sources of interest and have attracted several visi- tors and distinguished naturalists and scientists (Lima, 2007), registered in important documents such as “Saudades da Terra” by Gaspar Frutuoso (1583), a Portuguese priest. It is worth mentioning that Charles Darwin, when aboard the Beagle, visited briefly the Azores in the summer of 1836, taking opportunity to refer the volcanism as an expres- sion of an Atlantic setting (França, et al., 2003). According to Lima (2007), important steps were taken to initiate the development of geotourism in the archipelago: • the opening to the public of some volcanic caves, such as Furna do Enxofre in Graci- osa island in 1939, the Algar do Carvão in in 1968, and more recently,

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CJT_02_2013.indd 130 8.1.2014 15:21:17 CJT_02_2013.indd 131 specialized geotouristic companies (Figure 4)(Lima,et al.,2012). severalbyoffered are that trails walking and baths, canyoning,thermal coastering,ing, such as geotours, volcanospeleology, rock climbing, climbing, diving, mountain snorkel- dissemination ofregional resources. the promotes and customs) and gastronomy,traditions crafts, (e.g. archipelago the of tributes to the promotion and development activities related of traditional to volcanism ensurescustomer promotingBesides satisfaction. geotourism, Azoresthe Geoparkcon- that quality recognized the of services and products of development the with tourism rural and tourism adventure tourism, nature geotourism, in specialized which panies and experiences!“. motto “Come to the visit the Azorean volcanoes toand enjoy an eruption … of flavours, corresponding smells experiences, unforgettable with visitors cultural the providing and history heritage, biodiversity, as such values, other with linked are that emotions a offer islands Azorean nine The archipelago. Azores • • • • • sa island), natural swimmingpoolsonthevolcanicsa island),natural rocks andblacksandbeaches. zones (e.g. Ribeira Quente and Ferraria in São Miguel island, or Carapacho in - Gracio hydrothermal island), Miguel São near islet, Franca Vila (e.g. craters volcanic as rest the conditions natural create several bathing areas in special places of geological inte- and Termas doVaradouro (Faial island)opened inthemid20thcentury; island), Termas do Carapacho (Graciosa island) with the nineteenth building, century Termas da Ferraria and opened in the middle of the 20th century (both in São Miguel Termasportant: das with the first building constructed in the im- 17th centurymost and the Tomention established. were baths, or ingestion by either treatments, with Portuguese) in (termas spas properties, therapeutic recognized with waters, ted carbona- and mineral thermal, arethere where archipelago the of places different in heritage; and fauna andcultural streams, flora waterfalls), king, with the main points of interest - the volcanism, the presence of water (lagoons, the ancient footpaths have been used for many years as tourist walking trails and trek (Terceirathe SpeleologicalAssociationOsMontanheiros island); 1980’s,a the in public the to opened museum, speleological volcano the island); e Camarinhas das and Carvão do Gruta island, Maria Santa in Campo do Pedreira (e.g. numents and Mountain the classification of the first geosites, protected as natural reserves in the in ( 1970’s reserves geosites, natural protected first as the of classification the ofthearchipelago; ological heritage Miguel island, das and TorresGruta in , showing of part the volcano spele - São in Carvão do TerceiraGruta in island, also Natal, do Gruta and Água da Furna Therefor nowadays visitors can choose from a from choose can nowadaysvisitorsTherefor com- regional and local of creation the for oportunity an given has framework This the in way systematic and organized an in developed has geotourism years recent In Eva AlmeidaLima/MarisaMachadoJoãoCarlosNune•GeotourismdevelopmentintheAzores archipelago ... ), and more recently (1990’s) others, such as Natural Mo - Natural as such (1990’s)others, recently more and CalderaFaial), in São Miguel island, and island, Miguel São in Ferraria da Ponta (126—142) variety of geotourism-based products, geotourism-based of variety

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Figure 4 Geotouristic activities: (a) - Geotour in Barreiro da Malbusca (), (b) - nature photography on the central volcanic ridge (São Jorge island), (c) – Walking trail on Pico Alto volcano (Terceira island), (d) – Guided tour on Gruta das Torres lava tube (Pico island)

(a) (b) notes

(c) (d)

Source: Azores Geopark

The geotourism strategies in the Azores Geopark are supported by the exploitation, maximization and organization of the existing services and tourist infrastructures, mak- ing profit from the available resources and enhancing joint synergies. For this purpose, partnerships with several stakeholders have been set up, such as with the associations responsible for promoting the Azores as a tourist destination and for the qualification of the tourism offer in the region (e.g. the Tourism Association of the Azores and the Regional Association of Tourism-ART). This is done by bearing in mind that the imple- mentation of geotourism requires proper planning to consolidate and develop itself with guarantees of success (Nunes, et al., 2011). The global strategy of in the Azores has been successful and its implementation has been recognized. The archipelago is identified as one of the main active volcanic and geothermal touristic destinations of the world (Erfurt-Coo- per, 2011), as it is evidenced by several national and international prizes and rewards. In 2007, the National Geographic Traveler magazine considered the archipelago as the second best island in the world for sustainable tourism. In 2008, the publisher described the region as one of the best destinations worldwide and in 2010 the Forbes magazine distinguished the Azores as “One of the world’s most unique

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CJT_02_2013.indd 132 8.1.2014 15:21:18 CJT_02_2013.indd 133 das Furnas) (Nunes, et al.,2011; Viveiros, et al., 2012) (Figure 6). dish Azorean famous the (i.e. Azores the of geo-product typical another typifies Lake Furnas the of field fumarolic the of steam the in cookedgastronomy The erties. ated and waters mineral and the use of mud as peloides thanks to their medicinal prop - carbon- of intake the properties, therapeutic recognized the of waters thermal in baths a with islands several in existing volcanism, of manifestations secondary the of usufruct tional practices of the local population which are also of high tourist interest, such as the andearthquakeseruptions (Nunes, et al.,2011) (Figure 5). that which eyewitness the occurrence of natural geological phenomena, such as volcanic toponymy. their ruins as wellhistory,and as local places the also areThere understand from the rocks of each island, and the stone walls that divide some terrains rural help to dition, it is possible to see old manor houses, monasteries, churches and fortresses built ad- In pilgrimages. and processions as such God”, of wrath downthe “calm toorder in knowledge about these catastrophic natural events, the Azoreans created religious events architecture. Given the strong and Catholic the faithlack of of scientific the inhabitants encing many earthquakes. connection with “their” volcanoes, living through several volcanic and experi- eruptions Also since the early days of the Azores settlement, the Azorean people have had a Man andthevolcanoes international an Award, award for Gold tourism thebest sustainable destination. QualityCoast the won archipelago the 2013 In 2011). European the al., et (Nunes in by Portugal Excellence of Destination confirmed European first the as was Commission and Prize, EDEN the received Park Natural Island Faial the (vi) and Portugal; ProGEO2011“, by attributed “Geoconservation Prize the received Municipalities Azorean the of Travel;byAssociation BBC the the awarded (v) the world, in the islands secret best five the of by one as island, Pico labelled World (iv) Travel Guide; world, the in areas Miguel volcanic São appealing more in five the Furnas, of one (iii) as island, BootsnALL; the by determined World, the of trails best (ii) Traveler; VineyardsVelha,Criação the of of trail walking the eightthe of Geographic one as island, Pico in National the by best given ten summer, of for one worldwide as Azores destinations the (i) classification: following the contained prizes those ing integrated in the initiative of the New Seven Wonders Portugal. In the year of 2011, Pico Island were considered two of the „7 Natural Wonders of Portugal“, by public vot of - Landscape Volcanic the and Lake Cidades year, Sete the same this In destinations“. high potential in the health and well-being of this tourism area, taking an advantage of - tradi and ancestral some in imprinted also is relationship man’s and volcanoes The and festivities in specifically volcanoes, with linked closely is culture the Therefore, Eva AlmeidaLima/MarisaMachadoJoãoCarlosNune•GeotourismdevelopmentintheAzores archipelago ... (126—142)

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Figure 5 Culture elements linked with the volcanoes: (a)- religious procession (São Miguel island), (b) – ornamental rocks in the regional architecture (Santa Maria island), (c) – Ribeirinha lighthouse ruins from the 1998 earthquake (Faial island)

(a) notes

(b) (c)

Source: Azores Geopark

Also in the literature the Azoreans volcanoes and geologic processes are not forgot- ten, with his exponent in the famous Azorean poem by José Ferrreira, “Ilhas de Bruma”, where he wrote “(…) It’s running into my veins black basalt / At the hearth the blazing of the fumaroles / The immense sea fills my soul / And I have green, so much green showing my hope (…)”. This poem became a song, and it is now the Azores Geopark anthem.

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CJT_02_2013.indd 134 8.1.2014 15:21:19 CJT_02_2013.indd 135 Source: AzoresGeopark Figure 6 represented in the Azorean geosites; to notice the geological phenomena that gavethat rise phenomena geological the noticeto Azoreangeosites; representedthe in a as 7) (Figure resources explanatory and information several through manifestations logical Azores (Viveiros, et al.,2012). the of heritage geological promotethe protectand to importance the havehighlighted areas, rural in development socio-economic the towards contribute which tourism of have been exerting on some geosites over time, and the need to create alternative formstourism of development increasing the that pressure The 2009). al., et (Lima, policies the management of the touristic between operations and the balance implementation of the geoconservation keep to is tourism of form this to challenge main The touristic products. different with associated and performed be can activities several where use, a offers it and the geotourism for of and development archipelago the of icon promotional main the is landscape volcanic The Challenges oftheAzorean geotourism (a) (c) Other important task is the information about the geosites, geolandscapes and geo- and geolandscapes geosites, the about information the is task important Other Eva AlmeidaLima/MarisaMachadoJoãoCarlosNune•GeotourismdevelopmentintheAzores archipelago ... form to discover and understand some secrets of the Earth that are particularly particularly are that Earth the secretsof some understand discoverand to form cooking atFurnasvolcano(SãoMiguelisland) Miguel island), Miguel Examples of secondary volcanism usufruct: volcanism secondary of Examples (b) – drinking thermal and mineralized waters (São Miguel island), Miguel (São waters mineralized and thermal drinking – (126—142) (b) wide range of possibilities for sustainable sustainable for possibilities of range wide - thermal baths at baths thermal (a)-

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(c) |

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notes Eva Almeida Lima / Marisa Machado / João Carlos Nune • Geotourism development in the Azores archipelago ...

to the sites that are visited and valued ‘recognize the importance of the natural heritage, its fragility and need for preservation to maintain their natural evolution and ecologi- cal balance’ and thus, to contribute to the passage of this legacy for future generations and visitors, in accordance with the definition of geotourism made by Hose (1995). In fact, the need of knowledge makes information an effective tool to provide information in accessible language; it has an important role in the increased interest in geology and geoconservation, and to promote their touristic disclosure and a better environmental awareness and education (Lima, et al., 2009).

notes Figure 7 Interpretative resources: (a) - explanatory panel of Gruta das Torres Visitors Center (Pico island), (b) – Capelinhos volcano Interpretation Center (Faial island), (c) – outdoor information panel (Pico island)

(a)

(b) (c)

Source: Azores Geopark

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CJT_02_2013.indd 136 8.1.2014 15:21:20 CJT_02_2013.indd 137 intoxication by inhalation of volcanic gases, in addition to the risks of any outdoor outdoor any of risks the to (Figure 8). activity addition in gases, volcanic of inhalation by or vents, intoxication degassing other and fumaroles springs, hot from burns thermal are tourist without decreasing thevisitor number. IntheAzores theprincipalhazards to a geo- a about awareness raise to visitors to alerts and information through or signs and barriers physical building by prevention risk the ingly approaching potentially dangerous areas. Therefore, to workit is necessary on know are visitors 2011).The (Erfurt-Cooper, underestimated often is which factor der to promote geotourism opento asaninclusive allpersons. activity Figure 8GeotouristsinCaldeiraVelhafumarolicfield(SãoMiguelisland) a with issues safety and health region, the in geotourism of velopment and a and essential is It abilities. intellectual and physical their develop to help and one, each of well as for seniors and children, and provide a ate conditions to receive people with special needs, such as blind, deaf, handicapped, as thereforetois It them. generalize to cre necessary is it but activities, and ties - necessary facili- adapted as such archipelago, the in tourisminclusive of examples good some are hydrothermal fieldsin some shallow geosites. submarine and geomorphology the observe to diving and coasteeringthrough geosites Source: AzoresGeopark Being an active volcanic archipelago, there is another obvious challenge in the de- Another big challenge is to make this niche of tourism accessible to everyone. There everyone. to of niche makethis to is challenge big Another A point of differentiation of the Azores is the enjoyment of the coastal and submarine priority to create conditions for accessibility and improveor and in existingones foraccessibility the createtoconditions priority Eva AlmeidaLima/MarisaMachadoJoãoCarlosNune•GeotourismdevelopmentintheAzores archipelago ... (126—142) range range of activities able to meet the needs

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notes Eva Almeida Lima / Marisa Machado / João Carlos Nune • Geotourism development in the Azores archipelago ...

The Azorean weather sometimes is a constraint and a challenge to the tourist experi- ence, even being just a nature tourist. Thus, there is another challenge which requires having some alternative activities and products in case of unfavourable weather condi- tions. In the archipelago those alternatives already exist, such as visits to volcanic cavities, the environmental interpretation centres and science centres, for example. Contributions of the Azores Geopark The rich geodiversity, complemented by natural and cultural heritage, and together with the existing infrastructures (e.g. viewpoints and visitors, interpretation and science centres) provide good conditions for the development and creation of new touristic

notes products. It is important to note that the Azores Geopark, as an archipelagic territory, does not offer geotouristic services directly to the public, but works through the partners (tourism companies, interpretation and visitors centres, rural accommodation, and ). The main contribution of the geopark to the development of the geotourism in the archipelago is its practice in producing information and support materials or actions in order to give support to those who make the activities. However, other aspects were also taken into account, such as the promotion of circulation between the different islands (that present complementary geolandscapes and traditions); an increase in the length of stay (also increasing the revenues to local businesses), and suggest a variety of exciting activities and capability to develop with all weather conditions (as it has been mentioned before, the weather is an important factor in oceanic islands). The products made by the Azores Geopark include (Viveiros, et al., 2012; Machado, et al., 2013) (Figure 9): i) “Geosites Charts” per island, with the areas and information about each geosite and also about some support facilities in the island; ii) “Azores geosites leaflet”, with a simple map, identification and photos of the geosites of the archipelago; ii) “Thematic routes”, including the Volcanic Caves Route (to “discover the subterranean world of the islands”, valuing the volcanic caves and associated visitors centres), the Belvederes Route (to “discover the Azores volcanic landscapes by car”, valuing the numerous belvederes and panoramic points that exist in all islands of the archipelago, easily accessible, superbly located and with support facilities), the Walking Trails (“dis- cover the Azores geosites on foot”, enhancing the Regional Network of Walking trails with about 100 different options), the Science and Interpretation Centres Route (“to learn and explain the Azorean volcanic phenomena”, valuing 25 science, interpreta- tion and visitors centres existing in all the islands), the Thermal Route (to “discover and enjoy the power of the Azores volcanism”, taking an advantage of the benefits in terms of health and well-being of the thermal waters and mud) and Urban Routes (to “discover the geology of my village/town” that allow local population and visitors to see and learn about the rocks in buildings and monuments and to understand the geology of urban areas); iii) “Azores Geotouristic Guide”, to support travellers and tourists that visit the islands, but also to assist the tourism companies to promote their products and services. It

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CJT_02_2013.indd 138 8.1.2014 15:21:20 CJT_02_2013.indd 139 nance or changes of the management rules ofthesite are needed. nance orchangesofthemanagementrules In addition, this methodology should also help to give an accurate answer when mainte- fication of site conditions, their natural evolution and effects of anthropogenic pressure. forveri the - performed) be can whereleisureactivities places local or viewpoints,other belvederes, (e.g. places visited mostly the in applied be to going is which methodology companies. tourism various by offered are that trails walking and baths, thermal canyoning, ling, such as geotours, volcanospeleology, rock climbing, climbing, diving, mountain snorkel- viii)  viii)  vii)  vi)  v)  iv)  value forvalue regional culture, religion andhistory. significant their into insight an as well as geoheritage about education for opportunity provide,theythe emotionsthat including the with and volcanicand the structures with contact direct outdoor of range extensive an offer geodiversity special the where rism spread wide through public(localandforeign). thegeneral exploration and discovery, being also an appealing way of environmental awareness that gical heritage and geodiversity. This captivating and promising activity involves learning, Geotourism can be considered as an anthropocentric perspective of the use of the geolo- Conclusion It is important to mention that it is currently a currently is it that mention to important is It a from choose can visitors addition, In Volcanic and geothermal landforms are obviously attractive destinations for geotou- for destinations attractive obviously are landforms geothermal Volcanicand tion ofTourism; Associa- Regional and AzoresGeopark bythe Geotourism”,co-organized – Activities a being island, each of activites geotourism the about staff companies touristic the for courses” “Recycling Goors wrsos tree a suet o tcnclpoesoa tourism technical/professional of courses; students at targeted workshops” “Geotourism schools (through andsomefinalcourse internships works); Technical/professional with and ARDE) as (such Associations Development Local the with cooperation in develop been has work this depressed; socially places, this in activity socioeconomic improvelocal or the rise give to areas” rural in “Geotours teristics andgeotouristic potential), leisure activities,andother usefulinformation; - charac geological the of explanation an (with visit to places of suggestions includes of thegeopark; partners the and travellingbetweenroutesislands and thematic promotethe to the an “Azores Geopark ” is being develop to be launched next season in order cano steam. a Furnas”, das “Cozido the and “PedrasBrancas” or “Magma” “Basalto”, Lava”,“Terras de wines the of case the is productshaveAzores;local several the this and geoproductsrecognizedof as been a “Geotourist definedanddisseminated conduct”was throughvarious tools; Eva AlmeidaLima/MarisaMachadoJoãoCarlosNune•GeotourismdevelopmentintheAzores archipelago ... continuous work initiated on the “2011 Meeting of Touristic“2011of the Meeting on initiated work continuous typical dish cooked in the ground with natural vol- natural with ground the cookedin dish typical (126—142) great variety of geotourism-based products, geotourism-based of variety great

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notes Eva Almeida Lima / Marisa Machado / João Carlos Nune • Geotourism development in the Azores archipelago ...

Figure 9 Geotouristic products developed by the Azores Geopark: (a) – Azores geosites leaflet, (b) - Geotourism workshop fieldtrip at Furnas volcano (São Miguel island) notes

(b)

Source: Azores Geopark

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CJT_02_2013.indd 140 8.1.2014 15:21:21 CJT_02_2013.indd 141 of tomorrow. maintain the geosites visited. It is up to today’s geotourists to think about the geotourists reness so that they can acquire the toconcern respect the geosites characteristics and to Moreover, it is also tofundamental stimulate the geotourists for the environmental awa- a through heritage, geological the safeguards and a of promoting the by public all to accessible and dynamic this committed way publicentities,private sector population. andthegeneral consolidation of the archipelago as a the on work and iii) products; and services the of quality the enhance and promote ii) Geotourism; Azorean the of communication assertive more on work i) to: future near ment ofnew geotouristic products. develop- the in and partnerships new the in resulting training, staff or activities some to support and cooperation for requests been have there partners) other and centers, interpretation environmental (companies, stakeholderstourism the from Also services. geosites or geolandscapes sites visited and the available variety of activities, products and the of quality the with satisfaction their express they positive; been foreigners,has and emotions that tourists can experience and witness. The feedback from geotourists (locals for ofgeotourism. thepractice region has presented appealing characteristics, several ancestral activities and conditions sis of the geological heritage and geodiversity). As mentioned above, since early days the the Azorean nature tourism. specialized in geotourism also helped to earn its space and marked its strong position in services and products offer that accommodations and restaurants companies, tourism as a oconservation issues, as well as emphasizing the importance of the abiotic part of nature of the geolandscapes importance (integrated on the or geological not)heritage, and ge- the of awareness and disclosure for and geotourism, of development the for important support an become has archipelago the in Geopark Azores the of implementation The Azores. the of potential geological great the to thanks vectors main the of one as his work is a is work This Acknowledgment EU Pro-Employment Program. the Azoresarchipelago(Portugal)”, the to application An heritage. geological In order to maintain and improve the quality of geotourism, it is necessary to make to necessary is it geotourism, of quality improvethe and maintain to order In With the notion that there are always some issues to improve, it is intended in the in intended is it improve, to issues some always are there that notion the With The Azores as a In the Azores archipelago the basic work has been done (e.g. identification and analy a defined Tourismhas Azores the years, recent In Science basis to all the ecological systems, even to human activities. The creation of various Eva AlmeidaLima/MarisaMachadoJoãoCarlosNune•GeotourismdevelopmentintheAzores archipelago ... Regional Fund of the Azores Government, and co-financed by the contribution to the doctoral research project “Definition of a of “Definition projectresearch doctoral the to contribution nature touristic destination should be built up on the experiences and nature destination, involving and in an articulated (126—142)

| monitoring network of the geosites. the of network monitoring Czech JournalofTourism strategy that includes geotourism includes that strategy ef. M3.1.2/F/033/2011, supported by supported M3.1.2/F/033/2011, Ref. methodology for the management of management the for methodology European strategy that promotes that strategy Social Fund through the 02 /2013

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notes Eva Almeida Lima / Marisa Machado / João Carlos Nune • Geotourism development in the Azores archipelago ...

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