Highlands come to mind when Giresun is mentioned, but the province's most striking scenery is by the water. We are talking about three separate places, and their difficulty levels are very different.
Göksu Travertines · 700 m
Near Yavuzkemal, part of Dereli. A formation where mineral water paints the rocks white and forms turquoise pools. Likened to Pamukkale; the difference is that this one sits amid lush green mountains and you can go into the water.
You can take off your shoes and walk over the pools. It takes 1-2 hours to visit. You can drink the local mineral water from the shops at the entrance.
Mavigöl · 800 m
In the Kuzalan valley, an area laid out with wooden platforms and walking paths. The colour of the water turns from turquoise to dark green depending on the light. Easy to reach, suitable for families.
The Göksu Travertines, Mavigöl and the Kuzalan Waterfall are in the same valley. Putting all three in one day is possible and the most efficient plan.
Kuzalan Waterfall · 750 m
Inside a nature park, laid out with viewing terraces and stepped paths. The waterfall is at its fullest in spring with the snowmelt. There are gazebos and food and drink facilities on site.
Karagöl glacial lakes · 2,800-3,107 m
This is a completely different category. Karagöl Mountain, at 3,107 metres, is the roof of the province; at its foot are lakes that carry the traces of the glacial period. The water is clear, the surroundings rocky and bare.
This is not a day-trip picnic. Reaching Karagöl requires a serious hike, proper shoes and a check on the weather. Because of the altitude the weather changes suddenly and the mist descends. If you are inexperienced, go with a guide; do not set out alone.
If you are thinking of going:
- Only July-September is reasonable; before that there is snow, after it a high risk of mist and rain.
- Set out early; the weather deteriorates in the afternoon.
- The phone gets no signal at most points; tell someone where you are going.
- Dress in layers, the temperature drops even in summer.
Comparison
| Place | Elevation | Difficulty | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Göksu Travertines | 700 m | Easy | 1-2 hours |
| Mavigöl | 800 m | Easy | 1 hour |
| Kuzalan Waterfall | 750 m | Medium | 1-2 hours |
| Karagöl | 3,107 m | Hard | Full day |
On the map
On the map the easy water stops and the summit hike sit far apart; plan each accordingly.
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