Best Sustainable Summer Vacation Spots in Turkey for Eco-Conscious Travelers

Ömer Faruk Kino
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Turkey attracts visitors every year not only for its turquoise bays, ancient cities and sunny days, but also for its environmentally friendly, responsible holiday options. The concept of ‘sustainable travel’ refers to transportation and accommodation that reduce carbon footprints, habits that contribute to the local economy, and a tourism approach that protects natural and cultural heritage. In recent years, nature conservation projects, organic farming initiatives, Cittaslow (Slow City) memberships and small-scale ecotourism businesses implemented in different regions of Turkey have inspired travellers. 

In this article, you can find destinations in Turkey where you can enjoy a pleasant and nature-friendly holiday during the summer months, along with regional characteristics, activities you can do, and sustainability tips. So, what are the best sustainable travel destinations for a summer holiday in Turkey? What are the eco-friendly destinations to explore in Turkey? Let's learn all the details!

1. Kaş and Çıralı: The Ecological Heritage of the Mediterranean

Kaş, one of the most beloved towns on the Mediterranean coast, offers a more tranquil, boutique experience compared to other holiday destinations. Here, family-run guesthouses, local restaurants and small diving centres take precedence over large hotels. To protect the marine ecosystem, diving schools in the region enforce strict rules; measures such as limiting plastic use on boat tours and proper waste management have become routine.

Çıralı, located just east of Kaş, is a globally protected nesting area for loggerhead sea turtles. During the summer months (especially June–August), light pollution and noise on the beach are restricted; sun loungers are not placed over the nests. This sensitivity is reinforced by the responsible behaviour of tourists visiting the area.

Sustainable Activity Recommendations:

  • See the sunken city of Kekova on small boat tours

  • Discover the rich underwater life of the Kaş coastline through diving and snorkelling

  • Purchase olive oil and handicrafts from local producers

  • Take short nature walks on the hiking trails between Çıralı and Olympos

2. Bozcaada and Gökçeada: The Slow Islands of the Aegean

Bozcaada

Known for its vineyards, stone houses and windmills, Bozcaada is an island where local production is still thriving. Grape cultivation is at the heart of the island's economy and culture. The grape harvest events held during the summer months are important for direct communication with local producers and for involving holidaymakers in the production process.

Gökçeada

Gökçeada, Turkey's first and largest Cittaslow (Slow City) member island, stands out for its organic farming, clean energy initiatives, and nature-friendly village life. Quiet beaches such as Uğurlu and Gizli Liman offer a holiday away from the crowds. Products such as cheese, honey, and olive oil produced in the island's villages contribute entirely to the local economy.

Sustainable Activity Recommendations:

  • Wine tasting in the vineyards of Bozcaada

  • Visits to organic farms in Gökçeada

  • Using bicycles or electric vehicles for island transport

  • Participating in coastal clean-ups and volunteer ecotourism programmes

3. Mount Ida and Edremit Gulf: Legends and Biodiversity

Mount Ida National Park, with its endemic plant species, cool forests and rich water resources, is one of Turkey's important natural areas. Known in ancient mythology as the ‘mountain of the gods’, Mount Ida is now valued for its ecotourism potential. The national park offers hiking trails, bird watching areas and camping facilities; however, all activities must comply with park regulations.

The olive grove-covered villages of Edremit Gulf, with their boutique accommodation facilities and local cuisine, offer a fine example of sustainable agriculture and tourism.

Sustainable Activity Recommendations:

  • Observe the park's endemic plants on guided nature walks

  • Visit local olive oil production facilities

  • Support the local economy by shopping at village markets in the region

4. Göksu Delta – The Mediterranean's Bird Paradise and Wetland Ecosystem

Located within the borders of Mersin, the Göksu Delta is one of Turkey's most valuable wetlands. Stunning lagoons, reed beds and hundreds of bird species find a home around this delta. During the summer months, the region is a unique centre for both nature photographers and birdwatchers. Dozens of species, such as flamingos, kingfishers and herons, find breeding and feeding opportunities here.

The area is protected as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention. This status ensures that ecotourism activities are carried out in a controlled manner, protecting biological diversity from the pressures of conventional tourism.

Sustainable Activity Recommendations:

  • Birdwatching tour at sunrise with a professional guide

  • Quiet trips in the delta in small canoes or boats

  • Shopping for natural products (honey, citrus fruits, olive oil) at local village markets

  • Nature photography on wetland walking trails

  • An eco-friendly holiday in the Göksu Delta is possible with behaviour that is in harmony with the ecosystem and a controlled approach to tourism.

Source: Tabiat Varlıklarını Koruma Genel Müdürlüğü

5. Uzungöl – The Green Pearl of the Black Sea

Located in the Çaykara district of Trabzon, Uzungöl sits at an altitude of 1,090 metres above sea level, nestled around a natural lake amidst lush green mountains. The humid and cool climate of the Black Sea creates an appealing environment for those seeking to cool off during their summer holidays. This region, where the mountain pasture culture is still alive, is suitable for sustainable tourism with its local cuisine, wooden mountain pasture houses and trekking trails.

Although there have been debates about construction in the region in recent years, serious steps are being taken to protect nature thanks to controlled tourism practices, waste management and increased ecological awareness. Under the heading of ecotourism in Turkey, Uzungöl continues to be one of the most popular destinations on the Black Sea.

Sustainable Activity Recommendations:

  • Morning walks around the lake and photography accompanied by birdsong

  • Interaction with the local people in the Black Sea mountain villages, organic breakfast experience

  • Cycling tours around the lake and exploring the scenery on mountain paths

  • Purchasing local handicrafts and natural food products from villagers

6. Aymaç Nature Park – A Peaceful Escape in the Giresun Highlands

Located in the Dereli district of Giresun, Aymaç Nature Park, surrounded by misty highlands, is a centre offering tranquillity and serenity for nature lovers. With the unspoilt flora of the Black Sea highlands, endemic plant species and clean air, it is ideal for travellers seeking to escape the city crowds during the summer months.

Its status as a nature park protects the region's flora and fauna; tourism activities are limited to low-impact events. Spruce and beech forests, trekking trails and local culture enhance visitors' sustainable holiday experience.

Sustainable Activity Recommendations:

  • Guided nature walks on trekking routes

  • Participation in local mountain festivals and cultural interaction

  • Camping and stargazing in spruce forests (in authorised areas)

  • Shopping from local milk, cheese, and nut producers

Source: Doğadakiler

7. Köyceğiz-Dalyan Special Environmental Protection Area – Caretta Caretta and Reed Labyrinth

Located in the west of Muğla, stretching from Köyceğiz Lake to the Dalyan Delta, this area is one of Turkey's first ‘Special Environmental Protection Areas’. İztuzu Beach is one of the most important nesting sites for caretta caretta sea turtles. During the summer months (May–September), special rules are enforced on the beach for the safety of the turtles; access is restricted after dark, and light pollution is prevented.

Dalyan boat tours through the reed beds allow visitors to experience the natural beauty in the most harmless way possible. Thermal springs such as the Sultaniye Hot Springs can also be visited with ecological sensitivity in mind.

Sustainable Activity Recommendations:

  • Visit the turtle conservation centre at İztuzu Beach

  • Guided silent boat tour in the Dalyan marshes

  • Bicycle tour along the shore of Köyceğiz Lake and shopping at the organic market

  • Health tourism experience at thermal springs, adhering to ecological rules

Sustainable Travel Tips Across Turkey

A sustainable holiday encompasses not only the destination but also the mode of travel, accommodation and consumption habits. Here are some practical suggestions for those planning a summer holiday in Turkey:

  • Reduce Carbon Emissions in Transport: Use buses, minibuses, trains and ferries for short distances; hire bicycles for island transport.

  • Be Selective About Accommodation: Choose establishments that save energy, separate waste, and have water management policies.

  • Avoid Single-Use Plastics: Carry reusable items such as water bottles, cloth bags, and bamboo straws.

  • Support Local Production: Shop at markets, eat at family-run restaurants, and use the services of local guides.

  • Respect Nature: Do not use lights at night in sea turtle nesting areas, stay on designated paths in national parks, and leave no trace.

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