Център за размножаване и рехабилитация на сухоземни костенурки - принос за развитие на екотуризъм в Еминска планина

Abstract

The survey presents the importance of Tortoise Centre for Breeding and Rehabilitation and its role for the development of ecotourism in the region of Eminska Mountain. The major part of the territory is Natura 2000 site or includes protected areas according to the national legislation, storing a great number of conservation plant and animal species. The paper provides information for some ecotourism practices initiated by the Tortoise Centre as well as interaction among stakeholders and contribution to the nature conservation through environmental education, voluntary activities and sustainable tourism. The following are guidelines for the development of ecotourism in a new tourist destination out of the popular routes, which contributes to the promotion and conservation of natural resources in a destination with significant biodiversity and cultural heritage.