Kulakkaya Plateau is a free-entry plateau located at an altitude of 1500 meters in Giresun's Dereli district, surrounded by a pine forest; it is a suitable picnic destination for day trips, offering meat restaurants and barbecue areas.
Kulakkaya Plateau is approximately 45 kilometers from Giresun, connected to the Yavuzkemal Town of Dereli district. Declared a tourism center in 1991, it is considered one of the oldest authentic settlements in the Eastern Black Sea region. It is even said to be built on one of the historical Silk Road routes. Since its altitude is lower compared to other plateaus in the vicinity, its season lasts longer, making it a practical option for day-trippers.
The region is set in a forest dominated by pine, fir, and spruce trees. The main picnic area is flat and easily walkable, with several trails also available around it. Visitors note that the road is in good condition and the weather meets expectations. Meat restaurants stand out in the plateau, with places offering options like lamb chops. There are also bakeries and tea houses. Some comments indicate that the view is truly beautiful but has become more touristy in recent years, and some visitors complain about environmental cleanliness.
Barbecuing is allowed but must be done in designated areas; entry is free. Facilities such as parking, toilets, fountains, a children's playground, and an electrified camping ground are recorded. It is best to visit in the summer months; separate planning may be required for winter months.
Guide's Note
When to Visit Kulakkaya Plateau?
Summer months are the plateau's liveliest period. From June to September, the weather is cool and the greenery is at its most intense. Compared to higher-altitude plateaus in the vicinity, Kulakkaya's season starts earlier and ends later, so those who go in late spring or early autumn can also avoid the crowds. On weekends, especially around noon, the area around the meat restaurants gets busy. Visiting on weekdays offers a calmer experience.
How to Get There?
From Giresun city center, it's about a 45-minute, 45 km drive via Dereli district. Visitor comments frequently emphasize that the road is in very good condition. If you don't have your own car, it's possible to use minibus lines going to Dereli and then take a short taxi or shared taxi ride to the plateau. Day trip options from Giresun are also available.
How Much Time Should Be Allocated?
The plateau is suitable for a day trip. A visit of 3-5 hours is enough for both a nature walk and a meal break at a meat restaurant. It can also be combined with other nearby plateaus (e.g., Kümbet or Bektaş) to create a full-day itinerary. But Kulakkaya alone is sufficient for a short getaway.
What to Eat?
The gastronomic side of the plateau relies on meat restaurants; places offering options like lamb chops stand out in the region. Prices can vary, so confirm current information before you go. Buying simit from the bakery and eating rice pudding at the tea house is a small routine frequently recommended by visitors. There are also establishments offering local breakfast options.
Best Spots for Photography
The clearings within the pine forest and the wide green areas of the plateau are the most preferred spots for photography. Scenic viewpoints offer impressive shots, especially in the mornings as the fog begins to dissipate. Some visitors state that the view is the strongest aspect of the plateau, with even those dissatisfied with the overall experience singling out the view.
Things to Pay Attention To
Comments indicate that the plateau has recently taken on a more touristy appearance, and some visitors complain about environmental cleanliness. Finding parking can be difficult on busy weekends. If you plan to barbecue, you must use the designated areas; open fires are not permitted. Since weather conditions can change rapidly in plateaus, it is advisable to bring a jacket.
Other Stops in the Vicinity
Kulakkaya is centrally located on Giresun's plateau route. It is possible to visit Dereli district center or make a short stop at other plateaus in the region (such as Kümbet or Bektaş) on the same day. Adding Giresun Castle or the coastal strip to your itinerary on the way back to Giresun city center will make your day more fulfilling.
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