Küre Mountains National Park – Kastamonu and Bartın Provinces

Discovering the Wild Heart of Türkiye: Küre Mountains National Park

Tucked away in the lush, rugged landscape of Türkiye’s western Black Sea region lies a natural gem that feels like a secret waiting to be uncovered — Küre Mountains National Park. Spanning the provinces of Kastamonu and Bartın, this national park offers one of the most pristine and biologically diverse ecosystems in the country. For travelers craving raw nature, scenic treks, rich culture, and a step off the beaten path, Küre Mountains is an unforgettable destination.

A National Park Like No Other

Established in 2000, Küre Mountains National Park covers an area of over 37,000 hectares, with an additional 135,000 hectares of buffer zones. It is one of the first national parks in Türkiye to be included in the PAN Parks network, a European wilderness protection initiative, thanks to its rich biodiversity and largely untouched nature.

The park is a dramatic mosaic of deep canyons, dense forests, karstic formations, and hidden waterfalls. It is a sanctuary for countless plant and animal species, some of which are endemic or endangered. The terrain, carved over millennia by natural forces, makes it ideal for eco-tourism and adventure seekers alike.

Breathtaking Landscapes

Küre Mountains’ topography is both stunning and challenging. With steep ridges, rocky peaks, and plunging valleys, it’s a hiker’s paradise. The park is intersected by several limestone-based karst systems, creating a wonderland of caves, sinkholes, and subterranean rivers.

One of the most impressive features is the Valla Canyon, one of the deepest and most spectacular canyons in Türkiye. With walls rising up to 1,200 meters, the canyon is both a geological marvel and a test of courage for the adventurous. Nearby, the Horma Canyon offers a more accessible experience, complete with wooden walking platforms that wind through the forest and along the canyon’s edge.

Flora and Fauna

Küre Mountains is home to one of the richest forest ecosystems in the country. Visitors can wander through dense beech, oak, and fir forests, many of which are classified as ancient and untouched by human activity. In spring and summer, the park comes alive with a burst of wildflowers, adding color to every hiking trail.

Wildlife enthusiasts may catch a glimpse of brown bears, wolves, wildcats, and even the elusive lynx. Birdwatchers can delight in spotting species like golden eagles, owls, and woodpeckers. The region also supports rare amphibians, reptiles, and hundreds of insect species, making it a biodiversity hotspot.

Outdoor Activities

The park is a haven for outdoor lovers. Some of the most popular activities include:

• Hiking and Trekking: Dozens of trails weave through the park, ranging from beginner-friendly walks to multi-day treks. Popular routes include the Horma Canyon Trail and paths leading to the Ilısu Waterfall.
• Canyoning and Rock Climbing: For thrill-seekers, exploring the canyons and cliff faces offers a true adrenaline rush.
• Camping and Nature Photography: With its remote atmosphere and unspoiled landscapes, Küre is ideal for those who want to disconnect and reconnect with nature. The park is also a photographer’s dream, especially during sunrise and golden hour.
• Village Visits and Cultural Tourism: The surrounding buffer zone includes traditional Turkish villages like Pınarbaşı, Azdavay, and Ulus, where visitors can experience authentic rural life and taste local dishes.

Sustainable Tourism and Conservation

What sets Küre Mountains apart is its focus on sustainable tourism. The local communities, along with national and international organizations, have worked to preserve the park while promoting eco-friendly travel. Many of the villages offer eco-lodges, guesthouses, and homestays, allowing visitors to support the local economy directly.

Environmental education and guided tours are available to help tourists understand the importance of conservation efforts in the park. This approach ensures that Küre Mountains National Park remains unspoiled for future generations.

When to Visit

The best times to visit Küre Mountains are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the landscape is at its most vibrant. Summer offers lush greenery and warmer temperatures, ideal for canyon exploration, while winter can be quite harsh and is best left to experienced mountaineers.

How to Get There

The park is accessible via the towns of Pınarbaşı, Azdavay, and Ulus, which are well connected to the larger cities of Kastamonu and Bartın. Kastamonu has a small domestic airport, while Bartın can be reached from Ankara or Istanbul by car or bus. From either city, local minibuses or taxis can take visitors to the park entrances.

Tips for Travelers

• Pack appropriately: The terrain can be challenging, so bring sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate clothing.
• Respect nature: Stick to marked trails, don’t litter, and follow park rules to preserve the ecosystem.
• Hire a guide: Local guides offer deeper insights into the park’s natural and cultural treasures, and they can help navigate tougher routes safely.
• Try local cuisine: Don’t miss traditional Black Sea flavors like etli ekmek (meat bread), kuymak (cornmeal and cheese dish), and homemade jams from wild fruits.

Final Thoughts

Küre Mountains National Park remains one of Türkiye’s most underappreciated natural wonders — a place where nature speaks loudly and civilization whispers. For those seeking adventure, peace, and a deep connection with nature, this wild heart of the Black Sea region promises a journey that is as enriching as it is awe-inspiring.