Local People's Perception of Ecotourism In Taraklı (Sakarya): An Evaluation in The Context of Socio-Demographic Variables

Taraklı, a district of Sakarya, has been a Cittaslow member since 2011 and stands out with its cultural and natural wealth, making it a strong candidate for ecotourism development. Its rich flora and fauna, local products and handicrafts, traditional architecture, historical heritage, and natural landscapes highlight its significance for sustainable tourism planning. This study aims to determine the perspectives of local residents on ecotourism, their expectations, and opinions regarding current and potential activities in the region. Based on field surveys and statistical analyses, findings reveal that Taraklı has considerable ecotourism potential and that sustainable strategies can be implemented with strong community support. However, infrastructure shortcomings must be addressed, and public participation should be enhanced. In this context, Taraklı has the potential to serve as a model for other rural regions seeking to develop ecotourism in line with sustainability principles.