The natural, historical and cultural heritage of the Dido basin and its mountain setting and its potential for the development of tourism and recreation

Abstract

Aim. The article considers the potential of the natural, cultural and historical features of the territory of the Dido (Shaurinsky District) basin with its dramatic mountainous setting for the further development of tourism and recreation in regions of  the highlands of the East Caucasus.   Materials and Methods. In carrying out our study data obtained from field research,  including a comprehensive environmental survey of the territory, were used. Field  research  included  on‐site  expeditions,  profiling,  descriptive,  identification  of  key  areas, mapping, photography. Historical sources, as well as stock imagery and existing cartographic material, were consulted.   Results. The territory’s natural features and historical and cultural heritage were  examined in terms of their attractiveness for tourist visits and an option of creating a  recreational zone with tourist centres was articulated among other proposals for  tourism and recreational development.   Conclusion. The Dido basin with its high biological and landscape diversity and distinctive cultural and historical heritage presents significant potential for the development of various types of tourism and an associated local hospitality industry.