An examination of agrotourism from a wellness perspective within the scope of ecotourism: The case of Gazipaşa

Türkiye, its strategic geopolitical location, diverse climate, rich historical and cultural heritage, and ecological richness, holds significant potential for the development of ecotourism. Among the alternative tourism models gaining prominence, agrotourism emerging from the integration of agriculture and tourism offers a sustainable and locally beneficial approach. It enables visitors to engage in agricultural activities, experience rural life, and access organic and traditional products. In recent years, increasing interest in healthy living and nature-based experiences has also brought the concept of wellness to the forefront. With its focus on natural nutrition, sustainability and stress reduction, wellness shows a strong conceptual and practical overlap with agrotourism. This study investigates the relationship between agrotourism and wellness within the context of ecotourism in Türkiye. The district of Gazipaşa in Antalya Province is selected as a case study due to its agricultural capacity, natural landscapes, and rural character. The research is based on literature review and qualitative methods, including field observations and stakeholder evaluations, to assess the current potential of wellness-oriented agrotourism in the region. The findings indicate that agrotourism, when integrated with wellness principles, can serve as a sustainable tourism model that supports rural development, promotes ecological awareness, and enhances the well-being of both visitors and local communities. The study provides a framework for the development of such tourism practices in Gazipaşa and underlines the need for broader field studies and strategic projects to ensure long-term sustainability and economic contribution. Keywords: Agricultural Tourism, Ecotourism, Sustainability, Wellness, Gazipaşa.