Hidden away in the lush greenery of Turkey’s Black Sea region lies a breathtaking new natural wonder that is drawing comparisons to Pamukkale.
The Göksu Travertines, located in Pınarlar village, Giresun, have quickly risen to fame as a must-visit destination for travelers who seek unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
This newly established site has captivated visitors with its terraced pools and stunning mineral-rich waters, making it the perfect alternative to Pamukkale’s iconic white terraces.
Initiated by the Giresun Governorship Provincial Administration in 2020, the Göksu Travertines project has transformed the landscape into a series of terraces featuring pools of varying sizes, formed by high-mineral soda water.
The site officially opened to visitors in 2022, offering a mesmerizing display of turquoise and white hues that closely resemble the famous travertines of Pamukkale. Due to its delicate nature, the travertines are closed during certain periods of the year to preserve their beauty. In 2024, they reopened in June and have already attracted a record number of visitors.
In just a few months, approximately 300,000 people have flocked to the Göksu Travertines, up from around 200,000 during the same period last year. By the end of October, it is expected that up to 500,000 visitors will have explored this hidden gem, highlighting its rapid rise in popularity.
One visitor shared their surprise upon discovering this unique site in the Black Sea region: “I never imagined there could be a place like this in the Black Sea. When my friends told me about it, I was shocked because I had only heard of travertines in the Pamukkale, Denizli area. Seeing them nestled within the mountains here is absolutely charming.”
Kuzalan Travertines: A Natural Marvel in the Forest
The Göksu Travertines are not the only natural attraction drawing attention in Giresun. Just a few kilometers away, within the sprawling 500-hectare Kuzalan Nature Park, lie the Kuzalan Travertines, another stunning formation that captivates nature lovers. Covering an area of 1,800 meters, these travertines are considered the second-largest travertine formation within a forested area in the world, following Yellowstone National Park in the United States.
Known locally as “white stone,” the Kuzalan Travertines are created by mineral-rich waters flowing through the moss-covered ground. As the water trickles down, it gradually deposits travertine, forming the stunning terraces that have become a hallmark of the area. The site’s unique ecosystem, characterized by the interaction between moss and mineral deposits, makes it a remarkable natural phenomenon.
The Göksu and Kuzalan travertines offer a dual experience for those exploring the region—a chance to witness two extraordinary natural wonders in one trip. Visitors can easily combine a visit to both sites and enjoy the serene beauty of the Black Sea’s hidden treasures.
A Mini Pamukkale with a Unique Black Sea Twist
The Göksu Travertines, with their shimmering turquoise pools and white terraces, have rightfully earned the nickname of “Mini Pamukkale.” Set amidst the lush forests and rugged mountains of the Black Sea region, this site provides a striking contrast to Pamukkale’s open, arid landscape. The combination of mineral-rich water and the surrounding greenery creates an otherworldly ambiance, making it a unique destination for those looking to experience Turkey’s diverse natural beauty.
Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to Turkey, the Göksu and Kuzalan travertines offer a refreshing and relatively undiscovered alternative to the more famous natural sites. For those seeking to immerse themselves in nature, these travertines in Giresun are an exceptional choice that promises awe-inspiring sights and a peaceful retreat from the usual tourist trails.
How to Get to Giresun and the Göksu Travertines
The nearest airport to Giresun is Ordu-Giresun Airport (OGU), located approximately 30 kilometers away from Giresun city center. Several daily flights operate from Istanbul (both Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gökçen Airport) and Ankara Esenboğa Airport to Ordu-Giresun Airport. Once you arrive, you can take a shuttle bus, taxi, or rent a car to reach Giresun in about 45 minutes.
For those who prefer road travel, there are regular intercity buses from major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, and Trabzon to Giresun. The bus journey from Istanbul takes about 12-14 hours, from Ankara around 9-10 hours, and from Trabzon approximately 2 hours. Buses are comfortable and offer various amenities, making it a viable option for travelers who enjoy scenic routes.
Driving to Giresun is also an option for those who prefer flexibility and scenic drives. From Istanbul, the journey takes about 12 hours, passing through cities like Bolu, Samsun, and Ordu along the Black Sea coast. From Ankara, the drive is around 8-9 hours, with routes passing through Amasya and Samsun.
The Göksu Travertines are located in Pınarlar village within the Dereli district of Giresun, in Turkey’s scenic Black Sea region. Reaching this hidden gem is relatively straightforward, as it is well-connected by road. The site is approximately 58 kilometers from Giresun city center, and there are no significant transportation issues.
Visitors can easily drive or take a bus from Giresun to Dereli and then follow the local signs to Pınarlar village. The journey offers picturesque views of the lush Black Sea landscapes, making the trip an enjoyable part of the adventure.
Photo credit: Giresun Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism
