Sarpdere Bridge is a 150-200 year old single-arched, pointed stone bridge made of cut stone, located over Sarp Stream in Ulubey district of Ordu; it was restored in 2012 and is open for free visits.
Sarpdere Bridge is located in Karakoca Neighborhood, Ulubey district, built over Sarp Stream. It is made of cut stone and rubble stone, with a single pointed arch; its arch foundations rest directly on the bedrock. Its exact age is unknown, but sources say it is 150-200 years old. In the past, it was one of the crossing points for caravan routes extending from Ordu to Central Anatolia.
The bridge deteriorated over time, and the Samsun Highways 7th Regional Directorate carried out a restoration in 2012, faithful to its original form. Today, it stands out with its unguarded edges; therefore, those with children and those approaching the edge while taking photos need to be careful. The texture of the valley and the sound of the stream have made the bridge a popular spot for nature walkers.
Visiting is completely free, no appointment is required. It is advisable to wear walking shoes, as the surrounding area is mostly trails and dirt ground.
Related discoveries: Historical Places, Ordu historical places, İteniçi Recreation Area.
Guide's Note
The Story of the Bridge
The exact construction date of Sarpdere Bridge is not documented, but sources agree that it is 150-200 years old. It is a single-arched, pointed masonry structure built from cut stone and rubble stone. Both arch foundations rest on natural rock, and this detail contributed to the bridge's preservation to this day. In the past, it was part of the caravan routes between Ordu and Central Anatolia. Today, it is a local tourist attraction.
How to Get There?
Ulubey is approximately 21-23 km from Ordu city center. After following the Ordu-Ulubey highway and entering the district, the bridge is reached via the Elmaçukuru-Akoluk-Sarpdere route. There are signs along the way, but the road may narrow in the final section. All-season tires or a high-chassis vehicle will make your journey easier, especially during rainy periods. Going by public transport is not practical; it is more sensible to go with your own vehicle or as part of a local tour.
Best Time to Visit
The bridge is open every day of the year, at all hours of the day; there is no official closing time. However, it is preferred to visit between late spring and summer months, both for the visible stream flow and for the most vibrant greenery in the valley. Road conditions can become difficult in winter months. If visiting after snowfall, it is advisable to inquire about road conditions beforehand.
Things to Pay Attention To
There are no railings on the sides of the bridge. This requires caution both when taking photos and when walking on the bridge. If you are visiting with small children, it is important to hold their hand and not let them get too close to the edge. The ground can be slippery in some places, especially after rainy weather. Wearing walking shoes will make your visit easier.
Photo Spots
The best shot to show the pointed arch of the bridge is from the riverside looking up. A shot looking across the stream from under the arch also conveys the depth of the valley. The light is softer in the morning, and the texture of the stone is more clearly visible.
Route Suggestion
It makes sense to combine Sarpdere Bridge with other attractions in Ulubey district. When visited alone, it's a half-hour stop, but it can be included in a plan that covers Ulubey center and its surrounding nature routes within a day. It is quite possible to leave Ordu city center and return within the same day.
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