Geotouristic aspects of the Geopark Cabo de Gata-Níjar (Andalusia, Spain)

Marek W Lorenc,Małgorzata Janusz

doi:10.7494/geotour.2019.56-57.1

Abstract

The Cabo de Gata-Nijar Geopark is one of the most remarkable examples of the geological heritage in Spain, and it comprises the largest volcanic massif in Andalusia. It is built of andesites and dacites with such typical volcanic forms like lava flows, volcanic calderas, volcanic domes and columnar joints. The ancient beaches and reefs demonstrate the presence of climate change as well as of a subtropical sea. The tourism in this region is mainly focused on its beaches and some remains of the cultural heritage, like salt works or the Rodalquilar gold mine. This study pretends to analyze the reasons and consequences of this matter. Highlighting the good state of preservation of this area and the possibility of enjoyment of its beauty, more attention should be paid to the popularization of the local geological aspects, which would significantly increase the awareness and interest among the tourists.

Highlights

The ancient beaches and reefs demonstrate the presence of climate change as well as of a subtropical sea. The tourism in this region is mainly focused on its beaches and some remains of the cultural heritage, like salt works or the Rodalquilar gold mine
The region of Cabo de Gata-Níjar is located in the Almeria Province, on the east coast of the Andalusia region, in southern Spain (Fig. 1)
The region Cabo the Gata-Níjar represents the most protected area in Andalusia by local, European and world regulations (Gil Albarracín, 2001). It received the status of a Geopark in 2001, but already in 1987, it was for the first time declared a Natural Park in the network of local regulations

Summary

Introduction

The region of Cabo de Gata-Níjar is located in the Almeria Province, on the east coast of the Andalusia region, in southern Spain (Fig. 1). It is one of the most protected and fragile ecosystem of the whole country. It represents different types of high cultural and natural values. It should be pointed out that in particular its peculiar landscape that was created by the volcanic activity during the Neogene geological period. Gata-Níjar is a unique example of the volcanic activity in the world, which has been preserved in excellent conditions. This study demonstrates the high values of that area, and considers future dilemmas as well as management strategies

Geological background

Natural and cultural aspects

Current challenges

Tourism and geotourism aspects

Further actions