Yatağan Jeoparkı’nın (Gökbel Vadisi-Marsyas) Jeoturizm Potansiyelinin SWOT Analizi ile Değerlendirilmesi

Abstract

Environmental consciousness and awareness of cultural values which increased as a result of the negative effects of mass tourism have led individuals who desire to experience different geographies and cultures to alternative tourism types. In this regard, geotourism,that is also considered as a part of tourism types such as rural tourism, ecotourism and cultural heritage tourism, which are performed with perspective of sustainable tourism approach, stand out among the current tourism trends. Geotourism, carried out by opening Geoparks and geosites to tourism in accordance with sustainability criteria, is seen as a distinctive strategy for the protection of natural and cultural heritage that is in danger of extinction. The aim of this study is to examine the tourism potential of Yatağan Geopark in Gökbel Valley on Yatağan-Çine highway. For this purpose, field research and literature review were carried out and data were obtained to determine the geotourism potential of the region. Research data were evaluated by SWOT analysis to determine the strengths and weaknesses, opportunities and threats that geotourism activities have for development in the region. Research results showed that owning the oldest gneiss of Anatolia, having high potential of cultural tourism, and being on an easy-to-reach highway route are among the strengths of Yatağan Geopark. However, the lack of awareness of the Geopark and the inability to ensure effective local governance for the realization of the geopark project were evaluated as weaknesses. The presence of important historical, archelogical and geological values close the geopark and the development agency's support of projects for alternative tourism and ecotourism activities are among the outstanding opportunities. The study, concluded with proposals for the development of geoturism in the Gokbel Valley, which is a common heritage for the world, is also expected to contribute to the promotion and visibility of geosites and increase of awareness of geoturism.