Programme: Archipelago and Islands Sub-programme
Priority: Economically competitive and innovative region
Direction of support: Sustainable tourism

Duration: 36 months 01/2009-12/2011
Total project budget: 702 605 €
ERDF: 569 332 €

The major Central Baltic islands (Gotland, the Åland islands, Saaremaa, Hiiumaa) have enjoyed a long 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.

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

The project produces promotional materials such as well-illustrated full-color books and travel guides, educational videofilms, a survey on nature tourism marketing experiences on Central Baltic islands and conclusive exhibitions. A first videofi lm and book entitled “Geotourism Highlights of the Saaremaa and Hiiumaa Islands” is now completed. 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 supports local economies in a sustainable manner.

Lead partner:
NGO Geoguide Baltoscandia, Estonia (Tallinn)
www.centralbalticgeotourism.eu

Other partner:
Uppsala University, Department of Earth Sciences, Sweden (Uppsala)