Silent Treasures of Nature: The Awakening of Bingöl Lakes With Ecotourism

With its abundant natural beauty and pristine ecosystems, Bingöl is one of Turkey's best-kept natural secrets. One of the most remarkable elements of these beauties is the natural lakes in the region. However, for many years, both security and carelessness have prevented these lakes' tourism potential from being realised. Ecotourism, which aims to sustainably protect natural and cultural resources, offers an important opportunity for the development of tourism in these regions. This study examined the ecotourism potential of four natural lakes in the province of Bingöl with the goal of promoting tourism in these areas. Within the scope of the research, firstly, a survey was conducted with 192 people to determine the perspectives of Bingöl people on ecotourism and the potential in the province where they live. SWOT studies were conducted for four designated natural lakes (Balpınar Lake, Gerindal Lake, Natural Thermal Water Situated in Ilıcalar, Sarıçiçek Lake) in collaboration with professionals, including academics and students from the landscape architecture department. Based on the collected data, the research concluded with the creation of landscape designs for the chosen lakes. The primary objective of this project is to serve as a model for ecotourism design of concealed natural attractions.