Balneological resources of small resorts of Lviv region

Abstract

Lviv region has significant deposits of balneological resources, in particular, mineral waters and peloid among other regions of Ukraine. These resources are a valuable element of the recreational potential and socio-economic development of the region. On this basis, several balneological resorts have been developed with appropriate sanatorium infrastructure and the sphere of wellness services. The natural healing resources (mineral waters and peloids), which are widespread in Lviv region and used in small balneological resorts, are characterized. To small resorts we include resorts placed in towns Velykyi Lubin, Nemyriv, Shklo and in the village of Rozluch. They have some similarities in the functioning and take less than 5000 vacationers per year. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to investigate the current state of functioning of small balneological resorts of Lviv region. This will help us to evaluate their potential, make more effective utilizing available natural resources and prevent the emergence of environmental problems, which are typical in large and medium-sized resorts. The main balneological resources at these resorts are mineral waters for external and internal use. In addition, Velykyi Lubin resort is the one resort, which has reserves of peloid in a great amount and utilize it for treatment. Results: Maximum exploitation of balneological resources on small resorts is lower than 20 % of reserves. A common feature that brings together all the small resorts are irrational use of balneological resources and the presence of some environmental problems associated with problems in resort infrastructure. Small resorts can become powerful health-improving and tourist centres as other resorts in Lviv region. They also can provide economic development for themselves and the territorial communities around them. It is necessary to establish a high level of resort infrastructure, which can satisfy a growing demand in balneotherapy for future purposes. Key words: balneological resort, mineral waters, peloid, ecological problems, balneotherapy.