An integrated glacial geosite assessment framework and its application in Montenegro: Inventory, evaluation, and prospects for geotourism

This study examined the state of glacial geosites in Montenegro and evaluated their potential for geotourism development. The findings were based on a newly developed methodology—the glacial geosite assessment model (G-GAM)—which was specifically designed to assess glacial geosites. Seven key geosites were identified in this study due to their existing touristic value. The results showed that the analyzed sites had significant potential for geotourism development and could be enhanced with relatively modest financial investment. Furthermore, the glacial geosites offered notable environmental, leisure, and recreational value, as well as considerable scientific importance and educational potential. Given that most of these sites were in rural areas, the development of geotourism was expected to deliver positive economic impacts for local communities, potentially helping to mitigate depopulation trends. While geotourism may not have represented Montenegro's primary tourism offering, its integration with other tourism activities could have yielded mutual benefits for all stakeholders. The mountains of Montenegro had already become a major draw for international tourists, and the recognition and promotion of the importance of glacial geosites were expected to further enhance the market appeal of the country's natural landscape.