Abstract
Abstract. Within the framework of geomorphosite assessment with reference to tourism potential, a new field of research has opened up focusing on sites used for outdoor activities, like free climbing. This line of research in particular focuses on the suitability of geological and geomorphological characteristics of a specific site for a particular sport. Concentrating on geomorphological hazard, rock quality, tourism capacity and site vulnerability, a method of assessment was designed and tested on a number of important Itahan climbing sites. Using the results of the Monteleone Rocca Dona (Sardinia, Italy), the article presents the proposed approach of assessment. Although the site in question is recognised for its «scientific», «aesthetic» and «cultural value», it has drawn attention for its attractiveness for rock climbers in particular. Thus, the aim of the assessment was to support management of the site by proposing options for utüisation that are sensitive to both the needs of the climbers and the environment in which the site is embedded. In particular, attention was given to potential geomorphologically-related risks for climbers, the impacts linked to human presence and the specific characteristics of the geomorphosite.
Highlights
Within the framework of national and international projects, a common methodology of assessment and Classification of geosites has been developed over the past few years
The conclusions that can be drawn from this two-phased assessment is that the Monteleone cliffs equipped for free climbing show a good rock quality from a geomechanical point of view
Within a few months of the opening for free climb¬ ing of the high calcareous slopes which make up the upper part of Monteleone Rocca Doria relief, a strong increase in number of climbers and a general increase of visitors to the site was registered
Summary
Within the framework of national and international projects, a common methodology of assessment and Classification of geosites has been developed over the past few years It is a consequence, on the one hand, of the ever-increasing interest in the protection and appraisal of natural assets and, on the other, ofthe elaboration of the coneept of «geomorphosite» (Panizza 2001). Because of the link made between «scientific value» and «communal» or «cultural value», the results of such research are seen to give insight into geomorphological heritage, a characteristic which can be understood as a resource to be managed (Panizza 2003; Pralong & Reynaed 2005) The exploitation of such a resource, calls for the awareness of the possible impacts of use on the resource itself (Panizza 1995). If geo¬ morphosites are seen as dynamic components of the environment, attention should be given to possible hazards that could put people moving within that specific environment at risk
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