Giresun: Exploring the Beauty of the Black Sea Coastline

Nagihan Melike Demircioglu
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Giresun, a picturesque province located on the eastern Black Sea coast of Turkey, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by adventurous travelers. With its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, Giresun offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience.

Whether you're a nature lover seeking to explore the lush forests and winding rivers, a history buff interested in ancient fortresses and traditional architecture, or a foodie looking to sample delicious local cuisine, Giresun has something to offer for everyone.

Join us on a journey to discover the hidden treasures of Giresun and experience the beauty and charm of this enchanting destination.

Kümbet Plateau

Kümbet Plateau is a picturesque plateau located in the Giresun province of Turkey. It sits at an elevation of about 2,000 meters above sea level, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The area is known for its lush greenery and pristine natural beauty, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Visitors to Kümbet Plateau can enjoy a range of activities, including hiking, camping, and picnicking. There are several hiking trails that wind through the mountains and valleys, providing breathtaking views at every turn. The area is also home to several freshwater streams and waterfalls, which offer refreshing swimming spots during the summer months. Whether you're looking to explore the great outdoors or simply relax in a tranquil setting, Kümbet Yaylası is a must-visit destination in Giresun.

Bektaş Plateau

Bektaş Plateau  is a beautiful highland area located in Giresun. It is situated on the northern slopes of the Small)Çavuşlu Mountain, at an altitude of 1,800 meters above sea level. The area is known for its stunning natural beauty, including lush forests, verdant meadows, and snow-capped peaks. Bektaş Yaylası is also home to a variety of wildlife, such as brown bears, wolves, and eagles, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The area around Bektaş Plateauis also rich in history and culture. There are several ancient ruins and historical sites in the surrounding area, including the ancient city of Comana Pontica and the medieval fortress of Kefken. Additionally, the local cuisine is known for its delicious traditional dishes, such as mıhlama (a type of cheese fondue), çömlek kebab (a type of meat stew cooked in a clay pot), and hamsi tava (fried anchovies). Overall, Bektaş Plateau is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty, history, and culture of Turkey.

Göksu Travertine

Göksu Travertine is a natural wonder located in Giresun. It is a series of beautiful and unique travertine terraces formed by the mineral-rich waters of the Göksu River. These terraces are made up of layers of calcium carbonate deposits that have built up over thousands of years, creating a stunning landscape of cascading waterfalls and pools of crystal-clear water.

Göksu Travertine  is a popular tourist destination in the region, attracting visitors from all over Turkey and beyond. It is a peaceful and serene place, surrounded by lush forests and mountains. Visitors can hike through the area's picturesque trails, explore the terraces and take a dip in the refreshing waters. The site is also home to a variety of wildlife, including fish, turtles and birds, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers.

Kulakkaya Plateau

Kulakkaya Plateau is a popular tourist destination  in Giresun. The plateau is situated at an altitude of approximately 2000 meters above sea level and is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. The plateau is covered in lush green meadows and dense forests, and visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Kulakkaya Plateau is an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and tranquil getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. The area is known for its fresh air, clean water, and natural mineral springs that are believed to have healing properties. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and bird watching, or simply relax and take in the stunning scenery.

Kuzalan Waterfall

Kuzalan Waterfall is a stunning natural wonder located in Giresun. It is a popular tourist destination that draws visitors from all around the world. The waterfall is situated within the dense forest of Giresun, and it cascades down from a height of approximately 70 meters. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and the sound of the water falling creates a peaceful and serene atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim in the cool waters of the waterfall, or simply relax and soak in the breathtaking views.

To get to the Kuzalan Waterfall, visitors need to hike through a beautiful forest trail that leads to the site. The trail is well-maintained and easy to navigate, and it offers visitors the opportunity to observe the local flora and fauna along the way. Once you arrive at the waterfall, you'll be greeted by the sight of the cascading water, the cool breeze, and the refreshing mist. Kuzalan Waterfall is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Giresun, Turkey, and it promises to be an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

Giresun Castle

Giresun Castle is a historical monument located in the Black Sea region of Türkiye. It is situated on a rocky hill overlooking the city of Giresun and the Black Sea coastline. The castle is believed to have been built by the Byzantine Empire in the 6th century, but it underwent several renovations and modifications during the Ottoman period.

The castle is made up of three main parts, the outer walls, the inner walls, and the inner castle. The outer walls are 1,350 meters in length and have several towers and bastions. The inner walls are 850 meters long and have four gates. The inner castle is the central part of the fortress, and it is where the most important structures are located. These include the palace of the governor, the mosque, the arsenal, and the cistern. Today, the Giresun Castle is open to visitors who can explore its well-preserved structures, enjoy the stunning views of the city and the Black Sea, and learn about its rich history.

Giresun Museum

Established in 1969, Giresun Museum is a historical building that dates back to the 19th century. The museum has a collection of artifacts that reflect the cultural and historical heritage of the region, including items from the ancient civilizations that once lived in the area, as well as Ottoman-era and modern artifacts.

The museum's collection is divided into three main sections: archaeology, ethnography, and natural history. The archaeology section includes artifacts from the ancient Greek and Roman civilizations that once dominated the region, as well as local finds from the Hittite and Urartian civilizations. The ethnography section showcases the cultural heritage of the local communities, including traditional clothing, tools, and household items. The natural history section focuses on the unique flora and fauna of the Black Sea region, with displays of preserved animals, plants, and geological formations.

Giresun Island

Giresun Island, is a small island located in the Black Sea, off the coast of Türkiye. The island is approximately 1 kilometer long and 500 meters wide, with a total area of around 40 hectares. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, who come to enjoy the beautiful beaches and clear waters surrounding the island. The island is also home to a number of historic sites, including the ruins of a Byzantine castle and a 19th-century lighthouse.

One of the unique features of Giresun Island is its rich biodiversity. The island is home to a number of rare plant and animal species, including several endemic species that are found nowhere else in the world. The island is also an important nesting site for several species of sea turtles, including the endangered loggerhead turtle. Due to its importance as a nesting site, the island is protected as a conservation area, and visitors are required to follow strict guidelines to help preserve the island's delicate ecosystem. Overall, Giresun Island is a beautiful and ecologically important destination that offers a unique glimpse into Türkiye's natural and cultural heritage.

Don't forget to taste the local food when you come to Giresun!

Giresun's local cuisine is characterized by its fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and unique cooking techniques. From the famous Görele pide to delicious Giresun Hazelnuts , the city's culinary scene is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits. Here are some of Giresun's local foods!

Black Cabbage Soup

Black cabbage soup is a traditional dish from Giresun. It is made with black cabbage, also known as kale, and beef or lamb. The cabbage is sautéed with onions and garlic, then boiled with meat and water until tender. The soup is seasoned with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, and served hot with a squeeze of lemon juice. It is a nutritious and hearty soup that is enjoyed during the colder months of the year.

Görele Pide

Görele Pide is a type of Turkish flatbread that originated in Giresun.  It is traditionally made with a mixture of flour, yeast, salt, and water, and baked in a wood-fired oven. The dough is flattened by hand and topped with a combination of ground meat, onions, and spices. The finished product is typically cut into slices and served hot, often accompanied by a variety of toppings such as cheese, tomatoes, and herbs.

Kuymak

Kuymak is a traditional Turkish dish originating from the Black Sea region. It is a creamy, cheesy dish made by mixing cornmeal with butter, milk, and local cheese. The mixture is cooked over low heat until it becomes thick and gooey, similar to a polenta or grits consistency. The dish is typically served hot and is often eaten as a main course, accompanied by bread or salad. It is a popular comfort food in the region and is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Pickled Beans

Pickled beans are a traditional Turkish delicacy made from green beans that are pickled in a vinegar and salt brine solution. The beans are first washed and trimmed, then placed in jars along with garlic, red pepper flakes, and other spices. The jars are filled with the brine solution and left to ferment for several weeks, developing a tangy and slightly sour flavor. Pickled beans are often enjoyed as a side dish or snack, and are a popular ingredient in meze platters.

Giresun Hazelnut

Giresun Hazelnut is a type of hazelnut grown in the Giresun province of Türkiye It is known for its large size, sweet flavor, and distinct aroma. Giresun Hazelnuts are high in healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making them a popular ingredient in a variety of dishes and snacks. They are also used in the production of Nutella and other hazelnut spreads. Giresun Hazelnuts are highly valued in the global market and are considered one of the finest hazelnuts in the world.