G Turkiye

The Beautiful Highlands of Ordu: Perşembe, Keyfalan, and Çambaşı Yaylası

Nestled among the lush mountains of Turkey’s Black Sea Region, the highlands (yaylas) of Ordu Province offer visitors spectacular scenery, cool summer temperatures, rich cultural traditions, and a peaceful escape into nature. Surrounded by dense forests, rolling alpine meadows, and fresh mountain air, these highland plateaus are among the region’s most attractive destinations for hiking, photography, camping, and experiencing the authentic yayla lifestyle.

Among Ordu’s most popular mountain retreats are Perşembe Plateau, Keyfalan Plateau, and Çambaşı Plateau, each offering its own unique landscapes and traditional atmosphere.

Perşembe Plateau (Perşembe Yaylası)

Overview

Located in the Aybastı district of Ordu Province, Perşembe Plateau sits at an elevation of approximately 1,350 meters (4,430 feet) above sea level. Famous for its vast green meadows, traditional summer festivals, and breathtaking mountain scenery, it is one of the best-known highland destinations in northern Turkey.

The plateau comes alive during the summer months, when local families move to their seasonal homes and visitors arrive to enjoy the cool climate and tranquil surroundings.

Getting There

Perşembe Plateau is located approximately 124 kilometers from Ordu city center.

Route:

  • Ordu to Fatsa: 56 km
  • Fatsa to Aybastı: 50 km
  • Aybastı to Perşembe Plateau: 18 km

The access road is paved, making travel relatively easy by private vehicle. Regular intercity buses connect Ordu, Fatsa, and Aybastı, while minibuses operate from nearby towns including Tokat, Reşadiye, and Aybastı, especially during the summer season.

Things to See and Do

One of the plateau’s highlights is Karga Hill, a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the surrounding mountains and endless green pastures. It is particularly popular with photographers and nature lovers.

Visitors can also:

  • Enjoy scenic walks across alpine meadows.
  • Experience the traditional Black Sea yayla culture.
  • Attend seasonal highland festivals.
  • Taste locally produced dairy products.
  • Photograph traditional wooden village houses.
  • Relax in the refreshing mountain climate.

Facilities

Perşembe Plateau has well-developed infrastructure and offers a variety of visitor services, including:

  • Grocery stores
  • Butcher shops
  • Tea houses
  • Local restaurants
  • Small markets
  • Post office

These amenities make the plateau comfortable for day trips as well as longer stays.

Accommodation and Dining

Although accommodation on the plateau itself is limited, visitors can stay in guesthouses and small family-run hotels in nearby Aybastı. Restaurants and local eateries serve traditional Black Sea cuisine, while village shops provide basic groceries and daily necessities.

Keyfalan Plateau (Keyfalan Yaylası)

Overview

Located near the Mesudiye district, Keyfalan Plateau is a peaceful mountain retreat surrounded by forests and open grasslands. Sitting at an elevation of approximately 1,200 meters (3,940 feet), it offers visitors a quiet atmosphere far from crowded tourist destinations.

With around fifty traditional houses scattered across the plateau, Keyfalan retains its authentic rural character and is ideal for travelers seeking relaxation and nature.

Getting There

Keyfalan Plateau lies approximately 114 kilometers south of Ordu.

Travel route:

  • Ordu to Mesudiye: approximately 114 km
  • Mesudiye to Keyfalan Plateau: 20 km

During the summer months, regular minibuses connect Mesudiye with the plateau, making it accessible without a private vehicle.

Things to Do

Visitors can enjoy:

  • Hiking through mountain forests.
  • Birdwatching.
  • Nature photography.
  • Picnicking in alpine meadows.
  • Experiencing traditional village life.
  • Relaxing in the cool mountain climate.

The peaceful surroundings make Keyfalan particularly attractive for those seeking tranquility and outdoor recreation.

Accommodation and Food

Basic accommodation is available through a 20-bed guest lodge operated by the Forestry Service, subject to availability.

Fresh local products such as:

  • Milk
  • Cheese
  • Butter
  • Yogurt
  • Meat

can often be purchased directly from village residents, providing visitors with an authentic taste of rural Black Sea cuisine.

Çambaşı Plateau (Çambaşı Yaylası)

Overview

One of Turkey’s best-known mountain destinations, Çambaşı Plateau lies within the Kabadüz district of Ordu Province at an elevation of approximately 1,250 meters (4,100 feet).

Unlike many traditional yaylas, Çambaşı has developed into a year-round tourism destination while successfully preserving its natural beauty. It attracts visitors during every season for hiking, camping, festivals, winter sports, and outdoor recreation.

Getting There

Çambaşı Plateau is located approximately 58 kilometers south of Ordu.

The journey consists of:

  • 21 kilometers of paved road to Kabadüz.
  • Approximately 37 kilometers of mountain road leading to the plateau.

During the tourism season, generally from June to September, regular minibuses operate between Ordu city center and Çambaşı Plateau.

Attractions and Activities

Çambaşı offers numerous outdoor activities, including:

  • Hiking and trekking.
  • Camping.
  • Mountain biking.
  • Nature photography.
  • Highland festivals.
  • Horse riding.
  • Picnicking.
  • Winter recreation during snowy months.

The plateau is also an excellent destination for families looking to enjoy fresh air and spectacular mountain scenery.

Visitor Facilities

Çambaşı provides a wider range of services than many traditional highland villages.

Facilities include:

  • Grocery stores
  • Restaurants
  • Tea houses
  • Butcher shops
  • Small markets
  • Health services
  • Guesthouses
  • Family-run pensions

Its developed infrastructure makes it one of the most comfortable yayla destinations in the Black Sea region.

Accommodation and Dining

Visitors can stay in guesthouses, mountain lodges, and family-operated pensions located on or near the plateau. Restaurants serve regional specialties prepared with locally sourced ingredients, while village shops supply everyday necessities.

Discover Ordu’s Highland Heritage

The highlands of Perşembe, Keyfalan, and Çambaşı showcase the timeless beauty of Turkey’s Black Sea Mountains. Whether you are looking for panoramic landscapes, authentic village life, traditional yayla culture, or a refreshing escape from the summer heat, these mountain plateaus offer unforgettable experiences in one of Turkey’s greenest regions.

From peaceful forest walks and traditional festivals to local cuisine and warm Black Sea hospitality, Ordu’s highlands continue to preserve a centuries-old lifestyle while welcoming visitors eager to discover the natural and cultural treasures of northern Anatolia.