Assessment of Rural Tourism Development Potential and Sustainability in the Mountainous Shirvan Economic Region

Abstract

Rural tourism is increasingly used to diversify local economies, retain value within villages, and connect landscape conservation with living cultural heritage. This article assesses the development potential and sustainability conditions of rural tourism in Azerbaijan's Mountainous Shirvan Economic Region, which comprises Aghsu, Ismayilli, Gobustan and Shamakhi districts. The study applies a qualitative, evidence-based regional assessment using official statistics, current tourism policy materials and recent peer-reviewed literature. The results indicate a strong but spatially differentiated resource base. Ismayilli is especially suited to craft, village and forest-linked experiences; Shamakhi to wine, gastronomy, heritage and astrotourism; Aghsu to agritourism and vineyard-linked products; and Gobustan to architectural heritage, pastoral culture and semi-arid landscape interpretation. The main constraint is not a shortage of attractions but the incomplete conversion of resources into bookable, locally owned and environmentally managed products.