Evaluation of Sites of Geotouristic Interest on Active Volcanic Island La Palma, Spain for Potential Volcanic Tourism

Abstract

This study focuses on the Sites of Geotouristic Interest (SGIs) on the volcanic island of La Palma, Spain. The objective is to identify, select, characterize and evaluate SGIs, for the first time on this island, in order to promote volcano tourism and diversify the tourist leisure offerings. A variety of methods have been used to identify, select and characterize the SGIs, including bibliographic review, topographic, geological and geomorphological mapping, and field work during the 2021, 2022 and 2023 surveys. To evaluate the SGIs, the criteria developed by Reynard et al. (Geoheritage 8:43-60, 2007, Geoheritage 8:43-60, 2016) have been used, which includes scientific (Vs), additional (Va) and “use and management” (Vum) values. The findings indicate that: 1) the 52 SGIs are well-preserved, many of them are protected; 2) they are easily accessible to tourists; 3) the SGIs are representative of the volcanic geoheritage and the erosion and sedimentary geoforms of the main geological units defined in this active volcanic island. The SGIs have an average Vs value of 0.60, higher than the Va value of 0.46. However, the Vum value needs improvement in terms of the touristic information provided and minimizing the impacts of touristic use. This work provides a comprehensive database for both the public administration and active tourism companies to develop initiatives for volcano tourism in La Palma, contributing to the promotion of geotourism and diversifying their offerings.

Graphical Abstract