Viewpoint geosites in Podyjí National Park (Czechia) as valuable resources for geotourism and geoeducation

Viewpoints are generally considered one of the most attractive sites regarding tourism and recreation, but sometimes, their potential for Earth-science education (geoeducation) and geotourism is not recognised and used adequately. Viewpoint geosites have already been defined in scientific literature as localities that enable observation of landscape and comprehension of geodiversity (rocks, landforms, hydrological elements and their mutual relationships), and they are considered as sites that join high aesthetic and scientific values. These sites may be both natural (e.g. rock outcrops, mountain tops) and man-made objects (e.g., watchtowers, view terraces). In this paper, several examples of viewpoints from Podyjí National Park (both natural and man-made structures) are presented. For effective management, rational use, and adequate development of geoeducational and geotourist activities on these specific and important sites, it is necessary to identify their characteristics and potential, so the guidelines for the assessment of their potential are proposed. The results show that viewpoint geosites in Podyjí National Park (Czechia) have significant potential for the development of geotourist activities (including the geoeducational ones) and contribute to the promotion and sustainable use of geodiversity and geoheritage in the area. The methodological procedures used in this study are discussed and their contribution to better understanding of geodiversity’s importance in landscape and a more effective use of these resources for Earth-science education and geotourism development is highlighted.