Known as the "hidden paradise of the Black Sea," officials in Samsun's Ayvacık aim to transform the district into a new touristic hub. Resembling Switzerland's Davos on the Landwasser River, Ayvacık is located 60 kilometers (37 miles) from the center of Samsun. Blanketed by a dense forest, the district has attracted the attention of tourists in recent years since the local government launched extensive refurbishing efforts. The district is located on the shores of the Suat Uğurlu Dam Lake, which cuts the district's middle. The district's oldest records date back to 1455, when it was formed as a settlement known as "Bölük-i Nahiyet-i Dere-Ayvacuk." For centuries, locals in the district have earned their living through agriculture, harvesting nuts, corn and wheat. Nowadays, local residents are embarking on a new venture in tourism.
The region offers many interesting activities for visitors and offers ideal hiking and trekking trails with its dense forests and clean air. Ayvacık is one of the best places for hiking and trekking in Turkey, and tourists can also enjoy off-roading, fishing and cycling in the district.
Ayvacık's weather reflects the climate of the region, with generous amounts of rain falling year-round, hot summers and humid winters.
Speaking to the press about the touristic activities of Ayvacık, Samsun Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Yusuf Ziya Yılmaz said: "We have invested TL 46.5 millions in Ayvacık's tourism sector. Our goal is to make Ayvacık a top tourism destination for both local and foreign tourists. Upon completion of luxurious accommodation facilities in the district, I believe that Ayvacık will become a new hub for tourism."
