Determination of the geoturism potential: Tendürek mountain (Çaldıran-Van)

Tendürek Mountain (Turkey) and its surroundings is an important geological heritage landscape at local, regional, national and international scale with its geological and geomorphological features. However, there are no studies on conservation of geological heritage values and on geotourism potential of the area. Before geotourism activities are carried out in potential geotourism landscapes, comprehensive inventory and assessments should be carried out for geotourism purposes on geoheritage features in these landscapes. In this context, the research aim is; to identify the geotourism potential of Tendürek Mountain (Çaldıran-Van) and its surroundings. The "case study" approach was used during the research. In this context, first of all, geosites that could be used in the future geotourism activities were identified. Geotourism potential of identified geosites were then assessed according to scientific-educational, scenic-aesthetic, protection, functionality (use) and touristic value criteria through expert opinions on "geosite assessment form". 12 geosites were identified in the study. According to the assessment findings; Çaldıran Plain geosite is the first, Tendürek Mountain is the second and Alikelle Mountain is the third in terms of potential geotourism value. Findings show that scientific/educational, functionality and tourism values are primarily effective on the geotourism potential value of the geosites. According to the findings and landscape characteristics; three georoutes were proposed. At the end, in addition to recommendations on the development and realization of geotourism potential in the area, recommendations were also made for the protection of its geoheritage value. Keywords: Geological heritage, Geological heritage landscapes, Geosite, Geosite assessment, Geosite values, Geotourism, Georoad-georota.