GEOTRAILS: BLENDING GEOTOURISM AND GEOLOGICAL DISCOVERY AT THE BAYAH DOME GEOPARK, INDONESIA

Lebak Regency in Indonesia is endowed with abundant geotourism potential spread across several regions, including beaches, waterfalls, hot springs, caves, and panoramic landscapes. The Bayah Dome Geopark is distinguished by its remarkable geological importance and significant potential for geotourism development. However, the development of its geotourism resources, particularly within the Bayah Dome Geopark, remains underdeveloped due to lack of infrastructu re, integration of geo-sites and accessibility problems. These barriers affect tourism viability for local economies and restrict their socio-economic benefits. Addressing these issues, this study examines strategies to improve accessibility and geotourism trail development in the Bayah Dome Geopark, encompassing 15 sub-districts. The research employed a combination of primary and secondary data collection, including literature reviews, field observations, interviews with stakeholders, and geosite mapping. Secondary data was obtained by a comprehensive literature examination of geological reports, tourism studies, and regional development plans. Furthermore, geospatial analysis, encompassing geosite mapping and cluster analysis, was performed to enhance spatial planning and resource distribution. Cluster analysis was utilized to group geosites and tourist attractions based on geological, biological, and cultural diversity, enabling the creation of thematic geotrails. These trails were designed to optimize visitor experiences while minimizing environmental impact, considering accessibility, travel distances, and supporting infrastructure.The findings reveal that the Bayah Dome Geopark has 74 geotourism attractions, categorized into 60 geological, 5 biological, and 12 cultural sites. These were clustered into six major themes and corresponding sub-themes, such as Coastal Scenic Scape and Goldmine Heritage, which offer diverse tourism experiences. The development of geotrails as "natural geological laboratories" not only fosters educational opportunities but also promotes environmental conservation and cultural preservation. The implications of this study are significant for geotourism development globally. The thematic geotrail framework offers a replicable model for other geoparks, demonstrating how clustering and mapping can transform scattered geosites into cohesive and engaging tourism networks