Loess documentary sites and their potential for geotourism in Lower Silesia (Poland)

Abstract

Abstract The presented article fits into the subject of using the geotourist potential in the development of tourism in the region on the example of Lower Silesia voivodship. The main purpose of the article is actually the presentation of the potential of documentary sites, one of the abiotic forms of nature protection functioning in Poland, in the context of geoprotection and as geotourist attraction. Using the method of sightseeing inventory, a review of forms of nature protection has been carried out. Although “Soft” Rock Geosites are not excessively popular and appreciated, they are significant element of Quaternary palaeoclimatic and palaeoenvironmental archive and can provide interpretative facilities and services not only for geoscientists but also for constantly expanding group of conscious tourists. As a consequence of lithological and chronological research, two Late Pleistocene loess-soil sequences from Lower Silesia have been chosen: "Loess of Vine Mountain" - documentary site established in 2016 in Trzebnica and loess-soil sequence in Biały Kościół. After a detailed presentation of the sections, educational values were indicated, which should be promoted. Cultural values occurring in the vicinity of documentation sites are also presented. Taking into account the threats to the proper development of documentation sites, which were indicated in the article, solutions were proposed that would allow the sustainable development of geotourist resources of the loess.