Bölüklü Plateau is a natural area located at an altitude of 1100 meters in Gümeli town, Alaplı district of Zonguldak, where the tradition of transhumance is maintained amidst beech and fir forests.
Bölüklü Plateau is located in the Gümeli town of Alaplı district, Zonguldak, at an altitude of 1100 meters. It is situated at the foothills of Bacaklı Plateau, considered the highest point of the province. It is 80 kilometers from Zonguldak city center and 35 kilometers from Alaplı. The ascent from Gümeli town center to the plateau is approximately 14 kilometers, taking about 40 minutes.
The region is a forest area covered with beech, fir, and pine trees. Alder and oak can also be found on the slopes. In summer, it is still used by villagers and families for animal husbandry and temporary accommodation. This means that when you go here, you encounter a real yaylacılık life, not a tourist facility. The coolness of the high altitudes and the herbaceous and woody vegetation provide a suitable environment for animal husbandry.
The road issue is a serious matter. This is the most frequently repeated complaint in visitor comments: especially from the Devrek direction, the last 10-16 kilometers of the forest road are in poor condition, and large vehicles are forced to turn back in the final meters. On the other hand, those coming via Ereğli say the road is easier. Those who brave the road and arrive are generally satisfied; it is described as a quiet place where one can be alone with nature.
Related discoveries: Natural Beauties, Zonguldak natural beauties, Karadeniz Ereğli Museum.
Guide's Note
How to Get to Bölüklü Plateau?
The plateau is 80 kilometers from Zonguldak city center and 35 kilometers from Alaplı district. There is a 14-kilometer road from Gümeli town center, and this last section takes about 40 minutes. Two different routes stand out in visitor comments. Those going via Ereğli state that the road is relatively easier, while those coming from the Devrek direction complain about the poor condition of the last 10-16 kilometers of the forest road. Some visitors have written that they had to turn back with large vehicles in this section. It is advisable to confirm the route with local sources before setting off.
Road Conditions and Vehicle Choice
Most of the comments about this place mention the road. Some visitors say the road is terrible and that reaching the plateau is not worth the trouble. Others state that the road is challenging but ultimately worth it. The common point is this: with a standard passenger car, especially after rain, problems can be experienced in the last kilometers. Choosing a 4x4 or off-road vehicle is a sensible choice to avoid risking the day's plan.
Best Time to Visit
Since it is at an altitude of 1100 meters, the summer months are the most suitable period. Between June and September, the weather is cool, and the vegetation is vibrant. In winter, the already challenging forest roads can become completely impassable. Visiting during this period is not recommended.
Nature and Scenery
The region has a vast forest cover of beech, fir, and pine trees. Alder and oak can also be seen on the slopes. Due to its location at the foothills of Bacaklı Plateau, a wide forest view can be observed from high altitudes. In summer, the herbaceous vegetation and cool weather create a suitable environment for both photography and camping.
Transhumance and Local Life
The tradition of transhumance is still maintained in Bölüklü Plateau. In summer, families and villagers from Gümeli temporarily stay here, engaging in animal husbandry. Go without expecting a tourist facility. This is more of a place where real plateau life continues, with the characteristic of a natural protected area.
How Much Time Should You Allocate?
Considering the difficulty of the road, it makes sense to dedicate the entire day to this trip. A plan of nearly half a day is needed, including round-trip travel time and 2-3 hours of walking and resting on the plateau. For those considering camping, staying overnight is also possible.
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