KAPIDAĞ’S TOURISM VISION: SHAPING THE FUTURE THROUGH COLLABORATION

26.01.2026

The Kapıdağ Peninsula, with its rich historical, cultural, and natural heritage, is one of the most distinctive destinations in the Marmara Region. In recent years, initiatives led by the Bandırma Chamber of Commerce and the Erdek Chamber of Commerce have gained significant momentum with the aim of transforming the peninsula into a year-round tourism destination through a sustainable development approach.

Tourism Master Plan

The efforts carried out under the Kapıdağ Tourism Development Commission, established jointly by the Bandırma and Erdek Chambers of Commerce, have evolved into a comprehensive Tourism Master Plan coordinated by the South Marmara Development Agency (GMKA) in cooperation with the District Governor’s Office of Erdek. The plan aims to preserve and promote the region’s natural, historical, and cultural assets while ensuring sustainable tourism development.

Evaluation Meeting at Pınar Hotel, Erdek

As part of these ongoing efforts, an evaluation meeting was held at Pınar Hotel in Erdek under the coordination of GMKA and in cooperation with the District Governor’s Office of Erdek, Erdek Municipality, the Erdek Chamber of Commerce, and the Bandırma Chamber of Commerce.

The meeting focused on preserving Erdek’s historical, cultural, and natural heritage through a sustainable approach while unlocking the tourism potential of the Kapıdağ Peninsula. Bringing together local authorities, stakeholders, and tourism sector representatives, the event provided a platform to discuss regional development, strengthen the tourism vision for the peninsula, and evaluate projects that can be implemented through a collaborative approach.

The meeting was attended by Ali Taylan Öztaylan, Member of Parliament for Balıkesir; Hasan Göç, District Governor of Erdek; Burhan Karışık, Mayor of Erdek; Onur Adıyaman, Secretary General of GMKA; Bahadır Çolak, Chairman of the Board of the Bandırma Chamber of Commerce; Hüseyin Uz, Chairman of the Erdek Chamber of Commerce; Mehmet Ali Ozar, Chairman of BANSİAD; and representatives of the tourism industry.

On behalf of GMKA, Cevat Üçüncüoğlu and urban planner Bedirhan Baykam presented the proposed projects for the Kapıdağ Peninsula through a comprehensive presentation.

Key Development Projects

The proposed projects are based on the principles of ecological sustainability, balanced conservation and utilization, and the efficient use of natural resources. Within the framework of the Tourism Master Plan, illustrative projects include:

• Yukarı Yapıcı Reservoir Water Sports Facility
• Adventure Park
• Aromatherapy Complex
• Cultural and Faith Centers
• Water Sports and Diving Centers

Participants agreed that the Kapıdağ Peninsula has the potential to become an internationally recognized tourism destination. Key recommendations included extending archaeological excavations at the ancient city of Kyzikos throughout the year, developing museum projects, and expanding sports and cultural events to diversify the region’s tourism offerings.

The Tourism Master Plan for the Kapıdağ Peninsula is expected to contribute not only to regional development but also to Türkiye’s broader tourism vision. Through close cooperation among public institutions, local governments, and the business community, the initiative seeks to preserve the peninsula’s unique natural and cultural heritage while creating sustainable economic opportunities for future generations.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Hasan Göç, District Governor of Erdek, presented commemorative plaques to Ali Taylan Öztaylan, Member of Parliament for Balıkesir, and Onur Adıyaman, Secretary General of GMKA, in recognition of their valuable contributions to the development of tourism in Erdek and the Kapıdağ Peninsula.