Gelin Kayası is a natural formation located on the Kemaliye road in Mesudiye Village, Giresun, consisting of two stacked rock masses. It is known for its appearance resembling a face silhouette from a certain angle and its recently built observation deck; admission is free.
Gelin Kayası (Bride's Rock) is located on a steep slope in the Taşhan region of Mesudiye Village, part of Giresun city center, on the Kemaliye road. It consists of two large rock masses stacked on top of each other: the lower mass rests on an inclined surface, while the giant rock above stands in a balance that seems to defy the laws of physics. Some visitors therefore also call it Balance Rock.
Another feature of the rock is the face silhouette that appears when viewed from a certain angle. According to legend, a girl who was to be married to someone she did not love through arranged marriage wished to turn into stone before the bridal procession, and her wish came true at that moment. Most visitors wonder if they can truly see this figure by looking closely. There are comments from people who say they can discern the face when looking carefully at the rocks.
The recently built observation terrace makes the place even more attractive. Visitors say the terrace is larger and more impressive than it appears in photos. Construction of a glass terrace is also underway; when completed, it is aimed to be a spot that can be visited in all four seasons. The road is a bit steep and narrow, so it's advisable to be careful when driving up.
Guide's Note
What is Gelin Kayası, What Does Its Legend Tell?
The rock consists of two large masses stacked on top of each other. The lower part rests on an inclined surface, while the giant rock above seems to hang in the air. Some visitors therefore also call it Balance Rock. According to the legend told among the people, a young girl who was to be married to a man she did not love through arranged marriage wished to turn into stone before the bridal procession, without dismounting her horse, and her wish came true at that moment. The face silhouette that appears when looking at the rock from a certain angle makes this story even more vivid. In comments, some visitors write that they can clearly discern the face figure when looking carefully at the rocks.
How to Get to Gelin Kayası
It is located 25 km from Giresun city center, in the Taşhan region of Mesudiye Village, on the Kemaliye road. Going by your own car is the most practical option. After entering the village road, the slope becomes steeper and some sections are narrow. It is advisable to slow down and pay attention to oncoming vehicles when driving up. If you plan to go by public transport, you can inquire about village minibuses going from Giresun center towards Mesudiye, but there might be some walking required between the last stop and the rock.
Best Spot for Photos
The recently built observation deck is the best spot for both views and photos. Visitors state that the terrace is larger and much more impressive up close than it appears in photos. Those who want to capture the face silhouette of the rock should try a few shots from different angles; the figure can appear clearer or more indistinct depending on the direction of the light. When the glass terrace, currently under construction right next to the observation deck, is completed, it will likely become a new photo spot.
How Much Time to Allocate
Seeing the rock and taking a few photos from the observation deck takes 20-40 minutes. It can be considered a roadside stop; it can easily be added to a Giresun city center tour or a road trip towards Mesudiye-Kemaliye. Some visitors state that it's not necessary to go specifically for this, but it's worth stopping by if you're on the way.
Things to Know Before You Go
The road is steep and narrow in some sections. Be cautious when driving up, especially in rainy weather or at night. Construction of a glass terrace is currently underway in the area, so some sections may be temporarily closed or under arrangement. Shaded areas are limited around, so it's a good idea to bring a hat and water on sunny days.
Connection with Giresun City Center
Gelin Kayası is at a relatively close distance to Giresun city center. This makes it easy to add it as a half-day extension to a city center tour. In some sources, the distance is stated as 15 km, in others as 25 km; it may vary depending on the route. Check the current distance on the map according to your destination from the road.
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