Determination of ecotourism potential in rural areas: Case of Kırklareli province Kofçaz district

Thesis; "Rural areas have originality with their natural and socio-cultural values such as population density, mode of production, local landscape character. It is also constructed on the hypothesis that "these authenticities constitute the source of ecotourism". Within this framework, within the scope of the thesis; It is aimed to determine the ecotourism potential of Kofçaz District of Kırklareli Province (16 villages and 1 district center) in terms of local natural and socio-cultural values. For this purpose, a 5-step method was followed in the thesis study. In the first stage, the purpose and scope of the study were determined, and in the second stage, inventory and database related to the area were created. In the second phase supported by literature surveys and field studies; General concepts related to the subject have been defined. In the third stage; Regarding the natural and socio-cultural landscape values of the area; Maps were created in the GIS environment. In the fourth stage, the ecotourism potential of the area is revealed by the ecotourism possibilities spectrum method (ECOS). In the frame of the Ecos Method; 19 evaluation factors and 27 sub-criteria were determined for the main components of accessibility, tourist infrastructure facilities, tourist superstructure facilities, natural landscape attraction, economic structure diversity and socio-cultural landscape attraction. All components are scored from 1 to 4 (1 minimum, 4 maximum) according to ecotourism eligibility status and conformity maps were created. As a result of the evaluations, suitable areas for ecotourism activities were determined by creating a synthesis map. As a result of the study, it has been determined that 89% of the area is suitable for ecotourism activities, 6% is very suitable and various suggestions for ecotourism activities have been developed. Results obtained from the study; In planning, implementation and decision making processes, it will be beneficial for local administrations and other researchers.