Amasya on Turkey’s Black Sea Coast. Photo courtesy of Acizane via Flickr.
Stretching east of Istanbul all the way to the Georgian border and hemmed in by the looming peaks of the Kaçkar Mountain range, Turkey’s Black Sea Coast is home to some of the country’s most unspoiled landscapes. A world away from the white sands and busy resorts of the Mediterranean coast, the Black Sea region still remains largely undiscovered by tourists but those venturing off the beaten track will find plenty to keep them busy.
Although it’s possible to visit the Black Sea coast by public transport, the best way to get around is by hiring a car and driving the scenic coastal road from historic Amasra to the port town of Sinop, a winding route that passes by sandy beaches and secluded bays. The best beaches are further east, with popular stops including the traditional resort town of Ünye, with its cliff top medieval fortress; the historic town of Giresun, renowned for its cherry groves that date back to ancient Roman times; and the hazelnut-growing town of Ordu. Some of Turkey’s most pristine beaches lie along this stretch, but don’t expect the warm waters and year-round sun of the Mediterranean – the Black Sea is notorious for its clear, cool waters and often rainy weather, with swimming only desirable during the hottest months of July and August.
The real star of the coast is the scenery – a rugged expanse of rocky peaks, sprawling tea plantations and alpine forests, dotted with traditional villages. Heading east, the Kaçkar mountains are one of the top destinations for hiking in Turkey, with routes ranging from day treks to multi-day long distance trails and peaks reaching heights of up to 3,942 meters.