CARTOGRAPHIC METHOD IN SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH IN TOURISM AND RECREATION: FROM TOURIST PLANS TO DIGITAL CARTOGRAPHY

Purpose. The article aims to substantiate the importance of the cartographic method in tourism and recreation research, reveal its role in shaping modern tourist cartography, and demonstrate its practical application through the development of the Ukrainian section of the European long-distance trail E8. Methods. The study applies the methodological foundations of the cartographic research method, which is based on the creation of spatial models of tourism phenomena and processes. The research combines the analysis of classical cartographic materials, the historical-geographical approach, geographic information systems, as well as modern digital tools – OpenStreetMap, GraphHopper Route Planner, Google Earth, and mobile GPS applications (OSMAnd, Maps.me). The interdisciplinary approach made it possible to integrate data from various sources, including open geospatial platforms and field observations. Results. The functions of the cartographic method were identified, ranging from data collection to visualization and forecasting of tourism processes. The main types of tourist maps were systematized: general, scientific-reference, specialized, and interactive. The evolution of tourist cartography was demonstrated, from paper-based city plans to interactive digital services. The study analyzed the role of mobile applications such as Google Maps, Maps.me, and OSMAnd as essential tools of modern tourism practice. The practical testing of the method was carried out using the Ukrainian section of the E8 trail project, for which a digital route, GPS track, interactive map, and a system of control points were developed. Scientific novelty. For the first time in Ukrainian tourism studies, a comprehensive analysis of the cartographic method was conducted, integrating traditional, digital, and GIS approaches, which enables the modeling of tourism trends and development scenarios. Practical significance. The findings can be applied to the development of interactive maps and the management of recreational load on territories, as well as the planning and promotion of cross-border trails. The proposed approach contributes to the development of sustainable tourism, the integration of Ukraine into the European tourism space, and the creation of "smart destinations."