EVALUATION AND VALORIZATION OF GEOMORPHOSITES IN SUSTAINABLE TOURISM ACTIVITIES, FĂGĂRAȘ MASSIF (SOUTHERN CARPATHIANS, ROMÂNIA)

The relief is the one that is the basis for the development of a certain type of tourism in an area, it being the one that provides the natural tourist objectives, so, the present work brings to the fore the interde -pendence relationship that forms between relief and tourist activities. The present work proposes an updated and improved geomorphosites evaluation method based only on their scientific and touristic values. The attractiveness of geomorphosites generates the boomerang effect (degradation of geomorphosites through tourist exploitation). For this purpose, the following evaluation criteria were taken into account: for the scientific value: integrity, uniqueness, dynamics, vulnerability, ecological interest and for the touristic value: tourist revelation, accessibility, attractiveness, tourist infrastructure, tourist activities practiced. The study area is the central sector of the main ridge of the Făgăraș Massif, Romania. This space is an unique, characterized by the highest peaks (Moldoveanu 2544 m), deep valleys (Bâlea) and spectacular landforms (many of these being geomorphosites, Custura Sărății, Strunga Ciobanului). We chose this area because is an unique area, it is characterized by the highest peaks, deep valleys, and spectacular landforms, which have been shaped due to glacial modeling, over millions of years and is rich in geomorphosites. These geomorphological features not only have scientific importance but also attract a large number of tourists and play an important role in the ecological sustainability of the region. This work addresses the issue of environmental sustainability of geomorphosites and their inclusion in tourist activity. By applying the proposed method, the highest values were obtained for Bâlea glacial cirque and the lowest values for Strunga Dracului. The changes associated with the integration of geomorphosites into sustainability strategies have been explored, emphasizing the need for careful management to prevent the overuse or deterioration to these fragile natural features.