Perşembe Plateau, located at an altitude of 1,500 meters in Ordu's Aybastı district, is a plateau featuring meandering streams, a pond, Karga Hill, and picnic areas, welcoming visitors.
Perşembe Plateau is a plateau located in the Aybastı district of Ordu, approximately 1,500 meters above sea level. Its name is a bit confusing because it has no connection to Ordu's Perşembe district; the name here comes from a unique tradition of the plateau itself. Geographically, its most distinctive feature is its meanders. The river flowing in winding patterns on the plateau plain instead of a flatland is a formation rarely seen in the region. For this reason, registration efforts are underway for its inclusion in the world heritage list.
It was declared a Tourism Center by a Cabinet decision in 1991. In the plain surrounded by green pine and hornbeam forests, there are picnic areas, a pond, Çiseli Waterfall, and several other stops like Karga Hill. Visitors praise the nature of the plateau, some saying "it's one of the most beautiful places I've seen." But they also add that the wind blows strongly on Karga Hill, and you shouldn't go up without taking something warm with you. The atmosphere in the plateau market is milder.
Every year in July, plateau festivals are organized: wrestling, horse racing, concerts, and folklore shows come together. The road is largely asphalt, while the parts descending to the pond and waterfall are dirt roads. It can be muddy after rain, so be aware of this when you go.
Related discoveries: Natural Beauties, Ordu natural beauties, Çambaşı Plateau.
Guide's Note
When to Visit Perşembe Plateau?
The plateau is covered with snow in winter and the road can be icy in some sections, so the main visiting season is between June and September. In summer, the plateau gets more crowded, especially during the festival week in July. If you want a quiet trip, prefer weekdays; on weekends, both locals and visitors are numerous. In spring, with the melting of snow, greenery begins, and some prefer this period, but road conditions can be variable.
How to Get to Perşembe Plateau?
There are no direct intercity bus or minibus services to the plateau. You need to go from Ordu center to Aybastı district by minibus and then continue to the plateau from there. These village minibuses usually operate in summer and mostly early on Saturday mornings, and the number of services has decreased with the increase in private car use. The most reliable method is to go by your own car: from Ordu, head towards Aybastı and follow the signs for approximately 110 km, a 2-2.5 hour journey. The road is scenic but winding, especially in the last part. It is worth noting that the road is long and steep for those who want to cycle; walking is not recommended due to the distance.
Where to Visit on the Plateau?
There is a flat area in the center of the plateau where picnics can be held and local dairy products are sold in the plateau market. Going down to the pond to see the meandering water curves is the main experience; the road to this area is dirt, and it can be muddy after rain. Those who go up to Karga Hill can watch the general view of the plateau from above, but the wind blows strongly here. Çiseli Waterfall and Kümbetler can also be added to the route, these are two nearby stops.
How Many Days Should Be Allocated?
Half a day is enough to see the plateau center, the pond, and Karga Hill. If you want to add the waterfall and Kümbetler, and spend time in the plateau market, plan for a full day. Due to the long round trip journey between Ordu and Aybastı, it is beneficial to leave early if you are going for a day trip. Those considering accommodation can evaluate the facilities around the plateau.
Things to Pay Attention To
The wind blows quite strongly on Karga Hill, visitors recommend not going up without taking warm clothing. The roads descending to the pond and waterfall are dirt, and it can be difficult to drive after rain. As mentioned in a comment, it is important to keep the natural area clean, so be careful not to leave trash around. In winter, there may be snow and ice on the road, so if you plan to go during this period, inquire about road conditions beforehand.
Best Spots for Photography
The meandering water is where the plateau offers its most unique shots. Photos taken especially around the pond clearly show these curves. From Karga Hill, the general view of the plateau and pine forests can be captured. Those who visit during the plateau festivals can also capture shots from folklore shows and horse races.
Things to Know About the Plateau
The population of Perşembe Plateau gets quite crowded in summer; many families continue the tradition of plateau life here. Therefore, it is possible to find fresh dairy products and cheese in the plateau market. The region is also suitable for activities such as paragliding and safari; those interested can contact local operators.
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