What sets Kulakkaya apart among Giresun's highlands is not its view but its forest. The others are open meadow; this one is inside a spruce forest. That single difference changes the highland's character completely.
What's different?
- There is shade. Cool even in summer; while the midday sun burns on the open highlands, you are comfortable here.
- Ideal for walking. There are paths through the forest, and the view keeps changing.
- Accommodation relatively developed. More facility options than the other highlands.
- Sheltered from wind. Thanks to the trees, there is none of the harsh wind of the open highlands.
How to get there
Reached via Bulancak. About 1 hour 20 minutes from the centre. The road is paved, narrowing inside the forest in the final section.
Stop in Bulancak and do your last shopping. There is no shop or petrol station up top.
Walking
This is Kulakkaya's real appeal. There are paths of different lengths through the forest. You can make a short or a long loop to suit yourself.
- Sturdy shoes are needed; the forest floor is damp and slippery
- The phone does not get signal everywhere; download an offline map
- When the mist descends it becomes hard to find your way in the forest, so do not wander far
Accommodation
There are bungalow and guesthouse-type options in the highland. They fill up in the summer months and at weekends; book in advance.
It is also Giresun's most suitable highland for camping and caravans: there is shade, flat ground and shelter from the wind.
When to go
| Period | Situation |
|---|---|
| June | The forest at its most vivid, quiet |
| July – August | Ideal for the cool air, crowds increase |
| September – October | The colours turn, very beautiful |
| November – April | Snow; ask about the road conditions |
Bring with you
- Sturdy walking shoes
- A waterproof outer layer (the forest is damp)
- Insect/mosquito repellent — there are more in the forest
- Cash; there are businesses that do not take cards
On the map
On the map Kulakkaya works as a base; the forest trails and nearby stops are all close.
Open the guide