The Top 5 Geotourism Cities in Turkey

It is seen that geosites, which are important in terms of geotourism, have come to the forefront among the tourism values of countries in this day and age that the phenomenon of diversifying tourism is gaining momentum. Geosites, which can be defined as geological resource values, are very worthful in terms of culture and tourism as well as scientifically. These resource values, which should be protected for a sustainable future, have the potential to contribute importantly to the economic development of countries with good planning and organization. Turkey, with its unique characteristics in terms of geotourism, has numerous locations. Here are the top 5 geotourism cities and spa locations which are located in Turkey.

1- Kula-Burned Country (Katakekaumene) / Manisa

Kula, which is the district of Manisa, is one of the first places that come to mind when it comes to geotourism because of its location that is close to Izmir, as well as being an important area where young volcanoes are located. Burned Country, which has UNESCO's geopark network, has significant potential in terms of alternative tourism. There are many different tourism activities in this region where nature, culture and history are engaged. There is a long list of things to do in Kula, such as a hot spring holiday in the healing Emir Baths, trekking in geopathic areas, fairy chimneys and karst cave trips, and angling in Acısu and Demirkopru dams.

2- Kizilcahamam and Camlidere / Ankara

Kizilcahamam and Camlidere regions, which are one of the most magnificent examples of sustainable tourism, have many regions of geosite. We strongly believe that you will not want to leave this region, which is known for its natural and unspoiled environment, hot springs, easy access, four-season tourism, underground settlements and thousands of years of history. Kızılcahamam and Çamlıdere regions stand out especially with their thermal resource values. For those who want to benefit from thermal waters, there are facilities in the region that are affordable for everyone. In addition to all of these, these regions have a rich tourism potential with its local dishes, historical buildings from the Roman, Seljuk and Ottoman periods, valleys, springs and lakes.

3- Afyonkarahisar

If you ask where the thermal capital city of Turkey is, our answer would certainly be Afyonkarahisar. Afyonkarahisar is a very remarkable destination in terms of both thermal and geotourism activities. As a result of the investments made in the establishment in recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of domestic and foreign tourists. Natural and cultural values contributing to Afyonkarahisar tourism can be listed as follows: Phrygian Valley covered with volcanic materials of Turkmen Volcano, Emre Lake intertwined with fairy chimneys, Omer-Gecek and Gazligol hot springs, unique ruins of Phrygian, Roman and Byzantine periods ... Famous for hosting, this region will provide you countless alternatives for both short and long term vacations!

4- Upper Kızılırmak Basin / Sivas

The Upper Kızılırmak Basin, which is located within the provincial borders of Sivas, has features that fully meet the expectations of its visitors from geotourism. Different walking routes in the region offer various scenic beauty such as a canyon, waterfall, mushroom rock, tafoni, cave. At the same time, Sicakcermik and Baliklicermik thermals of Sivas attract a lot of attention from Turkey and abroad. There are many accommodation alternatives in the region including camping areas, hotels and hostels. When the ongoing works in both thermals and other geocite regions are completed, an application will be made to UNESCO. With the right planning, a good presentation, Sivas no doubt that will be Turkey's capital of geotourism.

5-Kozakli / Nevsehir

Nevsehir, which hosts millions of tourists every year, is one of the most popular cities in Turkey in terms of ecological, cultural and natural tourism. This region, where infrastructure and facility planning is highly developed, is like an open-air museum. The tourism potential of Nevşehir, which fascinates its visitors with its cultural and geological texture, is not endless. However, in recent years, Kozanli has become one of the indispensable destinations of winter holidays, with its thermal water source reaching 93 degrees. In Kozakli, there are some facilities which are both operated by the municipality and privately, with a holiday concept that is affordable for everyone.