Introduction

Geomorphological heritage (geoheritage) plays a vital role in environmental education, scientific research, and geotourism development. In northern Iran, particularly in Chalous County, the confluence of coastal, forest, and mountainous landforms has produced a unique and rich geomorphological landscape. Despite its significance, this potential remains underexplored and underutilized. The aim of this study is to conduct a comprehensive, quantitative assessment of key geomorphosites in Chalous, providing a framework for recognizing their value and guiding sustainable use. By applying a multi-criteria approach based on established international evaluation models, this research contributes to a systematic prioritization of geomorphological features within the context of conservation and geotourism planning

Chalous County, located along the southern coast of the Caspian Sea, is considered one of the most geomorphologically diverse regions in northern Iran. Its unique natural landscapes, including valleys, waterfalls, wetlands, hot springs, and both natural and artificial lakes, make it highly suitable for the development of geotourism and the preservation of geomorphological heritage. Geomorphosites, as prominent landforms of scientific, aesthetic, and cultural value, play a vital role in sustainable tourism development. Evaluating and prioritizing these sites not only enhances understanding of their tourism potential but also provides a foundation for conservation planning, infrastructure development, and environmental policymaking. In this context, the integration of multi-criteria evaluation models with visual-aesthetic approaches can improve the accuracy and reliability of assessment outcomes.



Methodology

This research was conducted using a descriptive–analytical approach, applying Multi-Criteria Analysis (MCA) for the identification, assessment, and comparison of the most prominent geomorphosites in Chalous County. The study relied on well-established models proposed by Reynard (2007, 2016) and Brilha (2016), which include evaluation criteria such as scientific value (rarity, form clarity, geomorphological activity), aesthetic value (landscape diversity, color, visual prominence), socio-economic and practical value, as well as vulnerability and conservation potential.



To collect data, 16 key geomorphosites were identified through fieldwork, review of scientific literature, and analysis of geological and geomorphological maps. These sites include Namak Abrood, Harijan Valley and Waterfall, Siyah Bish, Valasht Lake, Hasel Wetland, Daryook Dam Lake, Chalous River, Kando Chal Wetland, Sinava Waterfall and Spring, Larosar Hot Spring, Angouran Site, Hezar Cham Grand Canyon, Dariyo Spring, Shah Alamdar, Kani Station Waterfall, and Panje Gorgi in Hasanabad Valley.

Each site was scored based on the defined criteria and sub-indicators. A decision-making matrix was used for the MCA process to rank the geomorphosites. In order to improve aesthetic assessment, a complementary visual perception method was applied through direct field observation and image analysis. Vulnerability assessment also considered factors such as erosion intensity, tourism pressure, urban development, and infrastructural encroachment.

Results and Discussion

The multi-criteria evaluation revealed that the Hezar Cham Grand Canyon received the highest overall scores in terms of scientific and aesthetic values due to its unique geomorphological features, landscape complexity, and rich color composition. Harijan Valley and Waterfall and Valasht Lake followed as second and third, respectively. These sites were identified as having high potential for attracting tourists and conveying scientific and visual significance.



Conversely, Chalous River (vulnerability score: 7.0) and Namak Abrood (6.9) were found to be the most vulnerable sites due to their proximity to urban areas, transportation networks, and high levels of tourism-related activities. These factors pose significant threats to the sustainability of their natural and scientific values.

Other sites such as Hasel Wetland and Larosar Hot Spring were notable for their ecological, cultural, and therapeutic values, ranking high in the socio-economic and practical dimensions.

This study emphasized that the evaluation of geomorphosites should not be limited to scientific or aesthetic criteria alone. A comprehensive understanding of their importance requires the integration of multiple dimensions, including social values and conservation needs. Compared to similar research in other regions of Iran (e.g., Alizadeh et al., 2020; Sahraei et al., 2020), Chalous County stands out for its high density of geomorphosites and diversity of landforms, positioning it as a unique natural area in northern Iran.



Conclusion

The findings confirm that Chalous County possesses high potential for geotourism development and geomorphological heritage preservation. The assessment of 16 key geomorphosites showed that sites such as the Hezar Cham Grand Canyon, Harijan Valley, and Valasht Lake possess multiple values—scientific, aesthetic, and social—and should be prioritized in sustainable tourism planning and management strategies.

On the other hand, more vulnerable sites such as Chalous River and Namak Abrood require immediate conservation efforts and continuous monitoring. The integration of quantitative MCA techniques with visual-aesthetic approaches provided a robust framework for site evaluation, which can be adapted to other regions as well.

It is recommended that future studies incorporate additional criteria such as cultural-historical value and local community engagement to enhance the comprehensiveness of assessments. Overall, the outcomes of this research offer a scientific foundation for environmental policymaking, educational programs, and sustainable geotourism initiatives in Chalous County and beyond.