Evaluation of local community perceptions in thedevelopment of an ecotourism route: The case of Konuralp

Tourism is a dynamic phenomenon that constantly evolves in line with changing demands. In recent years, alongside mass tourism, ecotourism has gained prominence as tourists increasingly seek experiences that allow closer contact with nature. Within this framework, the present study aims to evaluate the natural and cultural heritage of the Konuralp region in Düzce, Türkiye, in terms of ecotourism potential, and to examine the perceptions and attitudes of the local community toward this process. The research process was structured in three main stages: inventory, analysis, and synthesis. In the inventory stage, the natural and cultural assets of the region were thoroughly examined and documented through field studies and literature reviews. In the analysis stage, a survey was conducted to measure the perceptions and opinions of the local community regarding ecotourism, data were systematically collected using observation forms, and the physical structure of the region was examined on-site through fieldwork. Based on these data, a SWOT analysis was carried out to identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of the region. In the synthesis stage, the findings were evaluated holistically, and a potential ecotourism route was proposed in line with the perspectives of the local community. The findings reveal that, when considered together with its historical, cultural, and natural assets, and the active participation of the local community, Konuralp holds significant potential to be developed as an alternative ecotourism destination. Keywords: Tourism, Ecotourism, Konuralp, Local Community, Sustainability