Balıkesir İli Bisiklet Turizmi Potansiyelinin Değerlendirilmesi (Evaluating The Bicycle Tourism Potential of Balıkesir Province)

Abstract

In recent years, cycling tourism has attracted growing interest as a sustainable and experience-oriented form of travel, and Balıkesir is considered a destination worth examining in this context. This study evaluates Balıkesir’s cycling tourism potential by reviewing its natural resources, existing cycling settings, and suitability for route development within national and international planning frameworks. Using a systematic review of academic literature, institutional reports, policy documents, and publicly available sources, the study provides an overall assessment of the province. Findings indicate that Balıkesir offers favourable conditions for cycling tourism, supported by accessible coastal areas, rural inland zones, and attractions such as Ayvalık–Cunda, the Edremit Gulf, and the Kaz Mountains. Route-sharing platforms point to widespread recreational cycling and a developing user base. However, challenges persist in route continuity, wayfinding, infrastructure quality, and coordinated planning. The study therefore recommends strengthening safety measures, improving infrastructure standards, and enhancing inter-institutional collaboration to support cycling tourism development and integration into wider cycling networks.