The Role of Ecotourism in Sustainable Development of Dareh Morad Beyg Village in Hamedan County of Iran Using SWOT Analytical Model

An important part of tourism activities is nature-based; and in the majority of regions, paying attention to the rural tourism is of great importance to improve life conditions of the rural people and farmers while enjoying natural beauties. The village of Dareh Morad Beyg in Hamedan County of Iran, with its possible potentials in cultural, natural and historical fields, has the required basis for planning based on ecotourism studies and surveys. This study aimed at investigating the tourism development of this village through an analytical matrix of SWOT. The results showed the excellent landscapes in both sides of the village and their natural attractions as the most important strengths , using its natural landscapes as an external opportunity , lack of comprehensive planning and lack of camping facilities as the most important internal weaknesses, and destruction of the gardens and pristine spaces subject to land use changes as the most important threats .