DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-087-0-0307

PROPOSAL FOR A GEOTOURISM TRAIL TO ENHANCE THE OFFER OF THE MALÉ KARPATY GEOPARK

Jana Šnajdrová¹, Ľubomír Štrba¹, Branislav Kršák¹, Csaba Sidor¹

¹ Department of Geo and Mining Tourism, Institute of Earth Resources, Faculty of Mining, Ecology, Process Control and Geotechnologies, Technical University of Košice, Letná 9, 042 00 Košice, Slovakia

This paper proposes a geological educational trail in the Malé Karpaty Mountains, in the village of Kuchyňa (Slovakia). It focuses on identifying, evaluating, and interpreting natural and cultural heritage to support geotourism and environmental education. The trail incorporates key geological, geomorphological, hydrogeological, and historical features, including fluvial landforms, sedimentary structures, and remnants of historical mining. It is designed for diverse audiences, including school groups, families, and recreational visitors, offering both a shorter educational route and a more challenging hike. The emphasis is on experiential learning, interdisciplinary links, and effective communication of scientific knowledge through interpretative materials. The trail can help promote geotourism, raise environmental awareness, and strengthen regional identity within the Malé Karpaty Geopark. The study underscores the importance of combining scientific research with practical approaches to sustainable landscape management and education.

Keywords: geopark, geotourism trail, geoeducation, geointerpretation, proposal

pages: 307-310, Published: 2026, online: 2026