International Journal of Tourism, Travel and Hospitality Law which is based on the geological and geomorphological characterization of the geosites of tourist destinations and on the geo-conservation and interpretation of the abiotic environment. This form of tourism is motivated by the experience, knowledge and enjoyment of geodiversity and of geo-heritage, which are located, indicatively, in places of geological interest with geomorphological monuments and formations, petrified forests, active volcanoes, caves and canyons, geological faults and geoparks”. Geotourism “includes gentle activities of sightseeing and enjoying the landscape, as well as activities of a scientific and educational nature. It promotes environmental education and the management of the natural environment in a sustainable way.” 4.2. The role of Local Government Local government is a fundamental institution for Greek democracy. According to the Code of Municipalities and Communities, Law 3463/2006 (Gov. Gazette A’114), Article 1, the local government as an expression of popular sovereignty, constitutes a fundamental institution of the public life of Greeks, as guaranteed by Article 102 of the Constitution and the European Charter of Local Government (Ratified by Law 1850/1989, Gov. Gazette A’144). According to Article 102 of the Constitution 1975/1986 as replaced by the 2001 amendment (Μυλωνόπουλος, 2001), the management of local affairs belongs to the local authorities of first and second grade. For the management of local affairs, the local authorities carry the presumption of competence. The Code of Municipalities and Communities delegates to first grade local authorities’ responsibilities for both the management of local affairs as well as the management of state affairs that fall into the sphere of competence in local level, but whose responsibility has been entrusted by the State to the municipalities and communities. The responsibilities of municipalities are divided into seven areas a) development, b) environment, c) quality of life, d) employment, e) social protection and solidarity, f) education, culture and sport, and g) civil protection. In these areas Municipalities are invited to develop their action. Primary to their development is the growth of tourism for the achievement of which Municipalities have two tools provided by the new Code: the issuance of regulations and licensing. According to Article 75 of Law 3463/2006 "The municipal and community authorities manage and regulate all local affairs, in accordance with the principles of subsidiarity and proximity, in order to protect, develop and improve constantly the interests and quality of life of the local community”. The aforementioned development area includes, in particular (Article 75 par 1a) "the protection, promotion and exploitation of local natural resources and areas, of hot springs and mild or renewable energy sources, as well as the construction, maintenance and management of relevant works and facilities ... "and (Article par 1a 8)" the preparation, implementation and participation in projects regarding tourism development and the promotion of alternative forms of tourism ... ".
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