Journal of Tourism and Development

Journal of Tourism and Development

Assessment of Geotourism Potential in the North Slope of Sabalan Geomorphosites Using the M-GAM

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
masoud rahimi 1
Fariba Esfandyari Darabad 2
Mehrdad Vahabzadeh Zargari 3
1 Assistant Professor of Geomorphology, Geography Department, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
2 Professor of Geomorphology, Faculty of Social Sciences, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran
3 Master's degree, Geomorphology and Environmental Management, Faculty of Social Sciences University of Mohaghegh Ardabili. Ardabil, Iran
10.22034/jtd.2025.526925.3078
Abstract
In recent years, geotourism has emerged as a modern branch of tourism, gaining significant importance in the sustainable development of various regions. Given the relevance of this industry, evaluating the capabilities of geomorphosites for scientific and economic utilization is essential. This study aims to assess the geotourism potential of geomorphosites located on the northern slopes of Mount Sabalan using the M-GAM model. In this research six geomorphosites (Shirvan Darehsi, Mueyl Darehsi, Shabil Hot Spring, Ghotur Suyi Hot Spring, Atgoli, and Shabil Waterfall) were evaluated based on expert questionnaires, field surveys, and geomorphological structure analysis. The results showed that, based on the M-GAM model which places greater emphasis on infrastructure and amenities Shabil Hot Spring ranks first with a score of 12.92. Moreover, the geomorphosites of Shirvan Darehsi, Ghotur Suyi Hot Spring, Atgoli, Mueyl Darehsi, and Shabil Waterfall were ranked next, respectively. The findings suggest that the M-GAM model provides a more comprehensive assessment due to its broader range of indicators and offers a more realistic framework for tourism development planning. Moreover, the results indicate that enhancing tourism infrastructure, improving service facilities, and better promotion of these geomorphosites could significantly contribute to the sustainable development of geotourism in the northern slopes of Sabalan.
Keywords
Geotourism
Geomorphosite
M-GAM Model
Northern Slope of Sabalan Mountain
Ardabil Province
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