Among Giresun's highlands, Bektaş is the most photographed. The reason is simple: the houses are colourful, the layout is scattered, the view is open. Kümbet is neater, Bektaş more picturesque.
How to get there
About 1 hour 40 minutes from the centre via Dereli. The road is largely paved, narrowing and winding in the final section.
- There is no petrol station in the highland; fill up down below
- In misty weather visibility can drop to a few metres
- A little further than Kümbet and the road is a little tougher
What's there
Painted wooden highland houses scattered across the slope. Between them, meadows, grazing animals and ridges to walk. The highland itself is a settlement: it comes alive at the end of June and empties in September.
There are places serving breakfast and kuymak but not as many as Kümbet. Food options are limited.
For photography
If you are going to Bektaş for photography, timing is everything:
- Early morning: The cloud rising between the houses as the mist still lifts. The best shot is here.
- Afternoon: The mist usually descends and the view closes.
- Sunset: If it falls on clear weather, the slopes take on a golden colour.
The weather at Bektaş is unpredictable. In a single day you may see three separate skies: clear, misty and rainy. Setting out early and returning late improves your chances.
The festival
Highland festivals are held in the July-August period. Horon, local music and crowds. Good for those who want atmosphere, bad for those seeking quiet.
When to go
| Period | Situation |
|---|---|
| June | Green vivid, quiet · the most balanced |
| July – August | Festivals and crowds |
| September | Silent, still suitable |
| November – April | Road mostly closed by snow |
Kümbet or Bektaş?
If you cannot see both, choose like this:
- Kümbet: Easier road, more facilities, suits first-timers and families.
- Bektaş: More picturesque view, usually fewer crowds, suits photographers.
On the map
Time your visit with the map's stops nearby; Bektaş pairs well with an early-morning start.
Open the guide