Giresun is a good place for families with children, but there is a serious difference between the stops. The same list holds both a park you can drive right up to and a castle at the end of a steep path. Below I have separated them clearly.
Easy to visit
Mavigöl · Dereli
Wooden platforms and flat walking paths. Largely possible even with a pushchair. The colour of the water catches children's interest.
Yedi Değirmenli · Espiye
There is a children's playground, gazebos, a prayer room and a car park. Laid out for picnics. The walk is long but flat.
Giresun Castle · Centre
You can drive up. Inside the castle is a large park: trees, benches, a tea house. Plenty of room to run around.
Giresun Children's Library
A building built as a church in 1912, a children's library since 1967. Inside there is a giant chess set and puzzle games. Ideal for a rainy day.
Kümbet Highland
The road is paved and there are facilities. You can spend time comfortably on the wide meadows. Just be prepared for the evening chill.
The Göksu Travertines are also great fun for children (you can go into the water) but the ground is wet and slippery. Walking hand in hand is essential.
You'll struggle
Bedrama Castle · Tirebolu
A steep path begins where the vehicle road ends. After rain the rocks become slippery. Not recommended with small children.
Karagöl
At 3,107 metres, it requires a serious walk. Not a light day trip; not suitable with children.
Kırkharman Church · Yağlıdere
The village road is a graded track and narrow, with no phone signal. A long and uncomfortable drive; challenging with children.
Şebinkarahisar Castle
There is a steep and tiring climb to the top of the rock. Older children can manage it, hard with little ones.
Practical notes
| Topic | Situation |
|---|---|
| Toilets | Present in nature parks, absent at rural stops |
| Food and drink | Facilities at Kuzalan, Yedi Değirmenli and the highlands |
| Card payment | Not accepted in the highland and at small businesses; take cash |
| Car sickness | Mountain roads are very winding; take precautions |
A suggested daily plan
Day 1 · City: The castle (park), the Children's Library, a shore walk.
Day 2 · Nature: Mavigöl and Kuzalan, lunch in the valley.
Day 3 · Highland: Kümbet, breakfast and time on the meadow.
Mind the sea: The Black Sea has strong currents and cases of people being pulled out. Do not let children into the water at beaches without a lifeguard.
On the map
On the map the family-friendly stops cluster in the city and the accessible nature parks.
Open the guide