Mount Ida (Kaz Daı), known as Mount Ida in ancient times, is a nature route in the Northern Aegean with waterfalls and stone villages, located on the border of Çanakkale and Balıkesir; national park entrance fees are low, and camping areas cost approximately 30-35 TL per person.
Mount Ida, known as Kaz Daı in ancient sources, is a mountain range stretching 60-70 km in a northeast-southwest direction north of the Edremit Gulf, marking the border between Çanakkale and Balıkesir. This region, surrounded by ancient settlements like Troy, Assos, and Antandros, is known in mythology as the site of the beauty contest between three goddesses: the story of Paris giving the golden apple to Aphrodite takes place here. The Ayazma area near Bayrami is identified with this legend; every August, the traditional Kaz Daı Beauty Contest and Sarıkız Festivals continue to be held.
Şahinderesi Canyon, Hasanbouldu, and Stven waterfalls are among the region's natural attractions. Visitors speak of the high oxygen levels in the forest, the sounds of birds, and the coolness of the streams. Some recommend going early in the morning and spending the entire day there. Stone house villages like Adatepe and Yeşilyurt, with their valley views and olive oil dishes, have become an indispensable part of the route. One comment points out the lack of signs on the hiking trails, so it's wise to get a guide or GPS support when going to remote locations.
The region is one of Turkey's prominent areas for nature conservation, with its endemic plant diversity and rich flora and fauna. The mountain can be accessed via different routes through villages like Kalkım, Evciler, and Gre; hot springs, ancient ruins, and stone mansions coexist in the same geography.
Related discoveries: Natural Beauties, Çanakkale natural beauties, Çanakkale Troy Museum.
Guide's Note
When to Visit Mount Ida?
Spring and summer months, especially May-June and September, are periods when the temperature is balanced and the streams are still flowing. Crowds increase in mid-summer; in the second half of August, the Sarıkız Festivals and the traditional beauty contest in Ayazma add a special vibrancy to the region. In winter, road conditions vary due to snow in higher elevations, so check your vehicle's tires if you plan to visit during this period.
How to Get There?
From Çanakkale city center, it's 71 km to Bayrami, then 24 km to Evciler Village, and another 5 km to Ayazma. Those coming from the Balıkesir side use highway 230, and those from the Çanakkale side use highway 24. Those wishing to reach Kalkım can go via Edremit, Çan, or Yenice. A private car is the most practical option; even if public transport goes to the villages, a vehicle is needed to access the interior of the mountain.
Suggested Route
For a one-day route, it's logical to start from Ayazma, then move to Şahinderesi Canyon, and then to Hasanbouldu. If you can spare two days, dedicate the first day to the waterfalls and canyons, and the second day to the villages of Adatepe and Yeşilyurt. Walking through the stone streets in the villages and looking at local olive oil products adds a cultural stop to the nature trip.
Things to Consider
A visitor's comment points out the lack of signs on some hiking trails; it's important not to venture to remote locations without a map. Phone reception can be weak in the forest area, so downloading the route beforehand is helpful. If you plan to camp, pay attention to fire bans and seasonal conditions.
Photo Spots
The rocky passages of Şahinderesi Canyon and the pools where Stven Waterfall cascades are among the prominent shots. In Adatepe and Yeşilyurt, spots overlooking the valley from the stone-house streets are also preferred for photography. In terms of light, morning hours make the green inside the forest appear more vibrant.
What to Eat?
The region's villages are known for their olive oil dishes. Small businesses in Adatepe and Yeşilyurt offer local breakfast and olive oil-based plates; taking a break from the nature part of the trip with a village meal is a common choice.
Mythology and History
This region, mentioned in ancient sources by the name Mount Ida, is also the geographical backdrop of the Trojan epic. In the story that begins with Eris throwing the golden apple at the wedding, Zeus leaves the arbitration to Paris; Paris chooses Aphrodite. This legend is still kept alive in the Ayazma area and is perpetuated through events held every August.
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