Espiye Seven Mills Cave in Giresun, Türkiye, is a 207-meter karstic cave whose water historically powered seven mills, featuring stalactites up to two meters long and nine external waterfalls.
Espiye Seven Mills Cave was actually thought to be a karstic spring for a long time. When it was realized that the water flowing out of it powered seven mills, it was understood that this was a cave entrance. It is located between Avluca Village and Yeniköy, 33 kilometers from Espiye town center. The cave is 207 meters long, and its internal height varies from half a meter to ten meters depending on the location.
What distinguishes the cave from others is the vigorous flow of water inside. In this underground passage, full of stalactites and stalagmites, it is said that every centimeter forms in 50 to 80 years; there are stalactites reaching 1.5-2 meters in length. The water emerging from the cave forms nine waterfalls outside, and this water powered mills in history.
Due to the narrow entrance and the active water flow inside, passage within the cave is not easy. Some sources recommend visiting with a guide. For those who come here, the main experience is often the nature park outside, the waterfalls, and the valley through which the water flows.
Guide's Note
How the Cave Emerged
The place was known for a long time only as a karstic water source. Since the water flowing from here powered seven mills in the past, the region was named "Seven Mills". Later investigations determined that the water actually emerged from a cave entrance. The total length of the cave is 207 meters, and its height varies between half a meter and ten meters depending on the location.
Stalactites and Stalagmites
The inside of the cave is covered with stalactites, stalagmites, and similar calcite formations. It is stated that every centimeter of these formations takes between 50-80 years to form, and some stalactites reach 1.5-2 meters in length. When light is shone, the shapes emerge clearly, offering interesting photographic opportunities inside the cave. However, entering and taking photos is not easy due to water flow and narrow passages.
Conditions Inside the Cave
The most distinctive feature of the cave was the vigorous flow of water inside. This makes progress difficult. Due to the narrow entrance point and active waterway, inexperienced visitors are not recommended to enter the cave. Some sources state that those who enter the cave have difficulty keeping their equipment dry, and the planned time extends exponentially. Therefore, cave exploration should be done with basic caving equipment and accompanied by a guide.
Transportation
It is 62 kilometers from Giresun city center and 28-33 kilometers from Espiye town center. The road proceeds from Espiye towards the borders of Yeniköy, Akkaya, and Avluca villages. Since public transportation options are limited, going by private car is more practical. There is a village road in the final section, it is useful to inquire about road conditions beforehand according to the season.
Suitable Time for Visit
Spring and summer months are when the water flow is vibrant and the roads are more easily accessible. In winter months, village roads can be challenging. Especially after snow and rain, check road conditions before setting off.
How Much Time to Allocate
Seeing the cave entrance and the surrounding waterfalls takes 1-2 hours. If you enter the cave and follow the water, this time can extend many times over; one source states that a planned two-hour activity turned into seven hours. If you are only planning a surrounding tour, half a day is sufficient.
Other Points in the Vicinity
The water emerging from the cave forms nine waterfalls outside. These waterfalls and the area around the cave entrance are within the borders of the nature park. On the way back to Espiye, you can add other natural points of the district to your itinerary.
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