GEOISLANDS

Fostering geoturism on Central Baltic islands

Thematic cluster:
Smes
Programme:
Archipelago and Islands Sub-programme
Priority:
2. Economically competitive and innovative region
Direction of support:
Sustainable tourism
Duration:
Jan 2009 - Dec 2011 (3 years, 0 months)
Total funding:
689 975 €
ERDF funding:
559 685 €
EUSBSR Priority area
Reinforcing cohesiveness of the macro-region through tourism
Website:
http://www.centralbalticgeotourism.eu

Development idea

The major Central Baltic islands (Gotland, the Åland islands, Saaremaa, Hiiumaa) have enjoyed a long-standing cooperation through the B7 Baltic Islands Network. However, the B7 activities have mainly focused on major issues related to the Baltic Sea, whilst the promotion of geotourism activities on the Central Baltic islands has received minimal attention.

Aim of the project

The GEOISLANDS project focused on preparing a solid base for nature tourism development opportunities on the Central Baltic islands.

Main project activities

The project produced a range of promotional and information materials such as illustrated full-colour brochures and travel guides, educational films, a survey on nature tourism marketing experiences on Central Baltic islands and conclusive exhibitions. Materials produced allow local authorities, tourism experts and agencies as well as educational leaders to create and manage both site-specific as well as cross-border nature tourism routes. By focusing on enhancing the economic potential of nature tourism, the project supported local economies in a sustainable manner.

Partners

NGO GEOGUIDE BALTOSCANDIA

Country:
Estonia
Region:
Põhja-Eesti
ERDF funding:
358 732 €
Amount of eligible national funding:
63 306 €

Uppsala University, Department of Earth Sciences

Country:
Sweden
Region:
Uppsala
ERDF funding:
200 953 €
Amount of eligible national funding:
66 985 €

Results

Information material on nature tourism on the Central Baltic islands

Various information materials promoting geotourism. 

The information materials were made to support the local entrepreneurs in development of the geotourism sector as well as to increase the attractiveness of our region. The material consists of 6 books displaying issues ranging from fossils to meteorite impact craters. The project has also produced 6 videos covering more or less the same topics as the books.

Fossils &Rocks – geotourism in the Central Baltic
Meteorite impact craters – geotourism in the Central Baltic
The Baltic Sea – geology and geotourism highlights
Geotoursim highlights of the Estonian small islands
Geotourism highlights of the Saaremaa and Hiiumaa islands
Geotourism highlights of Gotland

Publication on nature tourism marketing on the Central Baltic islands

A survey of nature tourism aimed at developing suggestions for further developments in marketing of nature tourism. 

The survey resulted in a comprehensive report on “Evaluation and suggestions for nature tourism marketing on Central Baltic islands”. The report brings together achievements and best practices in nature tourism in Estonia, Sweden and Finland.

Nature tourism marketing on Central Baltic islands

Films about geotourism highlights in Central Baltic islands

Promotional videos about geotourism highlights on the Central Baltic islands.

In total 6 videos were produced on topics such as "Geotourism highlights of the Saaremaa and Hiiumaa islands" and "Evolution of the Baltic Sea". The videos can be used by local authorities, tourism experts and agencies as well as educational leaders when creating and further managing both site-specific and cross-border nature tourism activities. The project also produced 6 books covering more or less the same topics as the videos.

www.centralbalticgeotourism.eu/geoislandsvideos
www.centralbalticgeotourism.eu/travelguides