IMERETI PROTECTED AREAS AND THEIR ROLE IN TOURISM DEVELOPING OF THE REGION

Imereti is one of the noticeable Regions with its number and variety of natural monuments, because there are registered 20 monuments here from 42. Though we have many research materials, Geographic area of Imereti, still conceals some geomorphology and hydrological objects. Recently, Georgian geologists and paleontologists have studied some strange rocks, which were discovered in the Valley of Khanistskali River. Scientific work innovation represents identifying areas of recreational landscape species through the studying object and on the basis of the comparative analysis -determine dynamics of their changes within the ten-year interval in 2008-2017 years. In Imereti the major factor of resort sector and tourism development is its nature. With aesthetic factor the holidaymakers attract - the healing properties of mountain climate, the richest hydro mineral resources and historical inheritance. The region has – cultural, healing, recreational, religious and other types tourism development potential. These are special geological phenomena, called – Separts. They are some kind of inorganic origin, sometimes considered to be turtles or other reptiles, that's why, they are called “false fossils”. Separts are really attractive and it is necessary to protect them. Natural monuments are rare, so it is important to create complex programs related to their use and preservation. It should also be mentioned, that some of the natural monuments do not even have a status. They would attract visitors and increase tourism economy, if we connected them to tourist routes.