Yeşilce and Topçam Plateaus are a natural area in Ordu's Mesudiye district, comprising Kızılağaç, Beyağaç, Kıyıyurt, and Çukuralan plateaus, declared a tourism center in 1998. The region hosts over 170 flower species and is known for its traditional plateau settlements; there is no entrance fee.
Yeşilce and Topçam Plateaus encompass four plateaus within the borders of Yeşilce and Topçam towns, part of Ordu's Mesudiye district: Kızılağaç, Beyağaç, Kıyıyurt, and Çukuralan. The region is not a single point but a cluster of nearby plateaus. Over 170 flower species have been identified in Kızılağaç Plateau, indicating the region's rich flora. It was declared a Tourism Center by a Cabinet decision in 1998, and traditional plateau festivals are held here annually.
There are scattered settlements (obas) on the plateaus, with wooden plateau houses; some are open for accommodation. Most visitors go to the region to eat meat, and the deliciousness of fresh lamb meat is frequently highlighted in reviews. Some also come for the scenery, especially preferring spots overlooking the valley when the weather is clear. It has been noted that road construction has been ongoing recently, making the journey a bit tiring. I recommend it to those who have time.
The distance from Ordu city center (Altınordu) is 114 km, from Mesudiye to Yeşilce is 18 km, and from Yeşilce to Topçam is 6 km. The road is asphalt but narrow and winding in places, and it can be closed by snow in winter. In April, the Çambaşı-Yeşilce road has been seen to be cleared of snowdrifts exceeding 4 meters. This indicates that the region is a high-altitude plateau line.
Guide's Note
When to Visit?
The most suitable period for the plateaus is between June and September. During these months, the snow has completely melted, and the herbaceous vegetation and flowers are at their most vibrant. Reviews indicate that the view is much better when the weather is clear, so checking the weather forecast before going is helpful. In winter, the region can be covered in snow. In some years, snowdrifts exceeding 4 meters form on the Çambaşı-Yeşilce road.
How to Get There?
From Ordu city center to Mesudiye district is 114 km. From Mesudiye to Yeşilce town is 18 km, and from Yeşilce to Topçam is only 6 km. The road is asphalt and can be comfortably covered by car, but there are narrow bends in places. Recent comments mention that some roads leading to the region are under construction, which can make the journey tiring. Going by your own car is the most flexible option. Minibus services to the plateaus from Mesudiye may also be available, but this needs to be inquired about in advance.
How Much Time Should Be Allocated?
It is possible to visit all four plateaus (Kızılağaç, Beyağaç, Kıyıyurt, Çukuralan) in one day, but it would be rushed. If you only plan to spend time and eat in one or two plateaus, half a day is sufficient. For those who want to fully explore the region and experience the plateau atmosphere by staying in the settlements, an overnight stay is a more appropriate plan.
What to Eat?
Most visitors to the region come to try the plateau meat. Fresh lamb meat is frequently highlighted in reviews, noted for being odorless and delicious. There are places in the settlements that serve food, with grilled or pot-cooked meat dishes being preferred. Local dairy products such as cheese and yogurt are also sought-after delicacies during plateau visits.
Photography Tips
The flower cover in Kızılağaç Plateau, especially in late spring and early summer, creates a rich scene for photography. Slopes overlooking the valley offer wide-angle views when the fog clears. Those who visit the region in winter prefer to photograph the scenery created by snowdrifts, but road conditions can be challenging during this period.
Things to Consider
Road construction sometimes slows down access to the region; it's useful to inquire about current road conditions before going. Plateau weather is variable, and fog can suddenly descend. It is recommended that those going for the scenery check the weather forecast. Services such as fuel stations and markets are limited in the region, so it's wise to complete your needs before leaving Mesudiye.
General Information About the Plateaus
Yeşilce and Topçam Plateaus encompass not a single plateau but an area covering four different plateau regions: Kızılağaç, Beyağaç, Kıyıyurt, Çukuralan. Traditional plateau festivals are held here annually, playing an important role in the cultural life of the local people. Its declaration as a Tourism Center by a Cabinet decision in 1998 officially recognized the region's tourism potential.
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