Balıkesir is an important tourist destination that boasts coa- sts on both the Sea of Marma- ra and the Aegean Sea, a place of unique bays, islets, mounta- ins and hot springs. It is a city that fuses culture, history and nature, with a vision and ro- le that are expanding constan- tly. A haven of Turkish acade- micism, it has two universities and incredible architecture to ri- val its stunning nature. Being located between two seas en- sures it is the perfect spot for lovers of freshly caught fish. It also has more than a hundred forests, making it a great spot to fill your lungs to the max. Ri - ch in hot springs, local resi- dents produce over 50 types of cheese here, while rugs and fa- brics form just part of its vast cultural heritage. If you are tra- versing the Gulf of Izmit by car, be sure to pass through Mount Kaz, or Mount Ida (Kaz Dagları), but there are also other must- see sites in the area. Ayvalık Ayvalık is famous for its ex - cellent diving, delightful beac- hes, expansive national parks and stunning architecture. He- re you can visit Şeytan Sofra - sı (the Devil’s Feast) and enjoy marvellous sunsets. It is re- commended to try “papali- na” fish while you’re on Cunda Island, but also its famous to-
asted sandwiches “Ayvalık To - stu”. It is impossible to imagine Ayvalık without its sanctuaries, but also without its beaches. The most notable is Sarımsaklı Beach, which is renowned for its dry sand that doesn’t stick to the body. Beach bars and se- afront restaurants serving local cuisine enable visitors to take a nice break from the sea and sun. With 22 islands, 60 diving spots and rich underwater fau- na and flora, Ayvalık is a true di - ver’s paradise. The "red coral" that can be seen in 34 diving spots along the Ayvalık coast is enchanting. With optimal cli- matic conditions and favoura- ble winds and waves, Ayvalık is also a very popular destination for windsurfers and sailors. Cunda Island Cunda Island, also known as Alibey Island (Alibey Adası), is situated just off the coast of Ayvalık between Çanakkale and
İzmir on the north coast of the Aegean. A road bridge conne- cts the island to the mainland, while its Anatolian Greek archi- tecture – with old houses and narrow streets – is particularly interesting. Apart from enjoying the sea and sand, other thin- gs to do on Cunda include visi- ting the Lovers’ Hill for its ama- zing views, visiting the Panagia Church and Library. This island is also famous for its glorious sunsets, delicious seafood and taverns where the conversati- on invariably continues into the early hours of the morning.
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