Ordu in 1 Day: Explore the City and Nature

Ordu has been one of the important locations in history where many civilisations passed by, settled, and thrived in its environment.

The first settlement in Ordu’s history was in the 7th century BCE in Bozukkale (Cotyora). Ordu has always been a favourite for its beautiful vistas, giving nature and mild weather. As the wheels of history continued to turn, various great civilisations settled on the grounds of Ordu, such as the Cimmerians, Milesians, and Persians.

The longest civilisation that resided on the soil of Ordu was the Pontus State, and they stayed for three and a half centuries. On this Ordu route in 1 day, you will discover history, nature and the city in one setting and enjoy the mild weather of the hazelnut centre of Türkiye.

7 Points

260 km

5.3 h

Ordu in 1 Day: Explore the City and Nature box

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Discover the natural wonders and city stops to be visited in one day in Ordu.

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Morning: Boztepe Cable Car Experience

Ordu’s beloved meeting place is Boztepe. This hill is 450 metres high above the sea, and it’s easily accessible by the cable car from the city centre. The Boztepe cable car is easily accessible from the coast of the city centre, and the experience of travelling with the cable car is nothing short of mesmerising.

You will see the beautiful black sea and the abundant trees of Ordu up above, and you will see every nook and cranny of Ordu city as well. When you arrive in Boztepe by cable car, you will immediately find cafes where you can sit and enjoy the view.

In these cafes you can enjoy eating beautiful gözlemes (baked thin, flatbread filled with cheese, meat or various fillings) and tea. In Boztepe, you can also discover paragliding. The region has services that offer assisted paragliding. Many adventures are waiting ahead, and it’s only morning.

Lunch: Cape Jason

Ordu Cape Jason is 15 kilometres west of the Perşembe district, and it’s one of the most mythologically charged and naturally blessed corners of the world. Cape Jason is a 1st degree archaeological and 2nd degree natural site, and it’s a truly beautiful place.

Strong waves of the black sea crash on the rocks. The most beautiful shades of green and blue come together. Walk to the edge of the Cape Jason, listen to the melody waves create, feel the harmony of nature. This place is truly magical.

This is probably the reason why Cape Jason was actually an important location in Hellenic Mythology, specifically for the legend of Argonaut. Meaning Argo sailors, Argonauts are the 50 band of heroes that went on the quest to fetch the Golden Fleece with Jason. During this quest, they found themselves in Cape Jason. This story is mentioned in Homer’s Odyssey.

In this place of legends, you can walk near the coast, take beautiful pictures of waves crashing on the rocks, and just ponder the historicity of the region. Cape Jason is one of the must-see places in Türkiye; its natural significance and legendary status are awe-inspiring.

Afternoon: Perşembe Plateau and Nature Walk

Perşembe Plateau is well-loved and known for its beautiful meanders and green valleys. With its 1500 metres altitude, Perşembe Plateau is best enjoyed during summer, and especially in July, when you will encounter festivals to celebrate the start of plateau season.

During these festivals, the beauty of the Perşembe Plateau is celebrated through friendly competitions, folklore dances, live music, wrestling tournaments, and horseback riding races. If you encounter one of these celebrations, we suggest you not to miss it since it’s a rare, authentic experience you can get in the world.

On a regular day, the Perşembe Plateau will charm you with its natural beauty. The waterfalls of the region are big and magnificent. Aybastı Waterfall, near the area, showcases beautiful vistas and has the cleanest waters

Evening: Shopping and Local Products in Ordu City Centre

When we say Ordu is the hazelnut centre of Türkiye, even of the world. Since Ordu is the lead in hazelnut production, not just in Türkiye but in the world, hazelnuts are etched in the culture of the people of Ordu. Even in refrigerator magnets, you will see hazelnut symbols. In Ordu, there is not only the raw production of this beautiful nut, but there are also local brands that process hazelnuts and create beautiful desserts like a chocolate spread.

After hazelnuts, another important farming product is kiwis and honey. The rainy and mild weather of Ordu creates a specific climate where it’s possible to grow kiwis, a tropical fruit. Ordu kiwis are juicy and beautiful. Don’t forget to shop in local markets to discover these beautiful harvests of Ordu.

End your day in a restaurant where you can fill your belly with delicious local delicacies like pancar çorbası (kale soup with beans) and discuss the day with your loved ones. Ordu is also known for crafting beautiful instruments such as clarinets, a traditional instrument called ney, and beautiful handcrafted staffs.

During your shopping adventure, go into a local store to explore handcrafted items unique to Ordu. You will find not just musical instruments, but kilims (small carpets), carpets, and handwoven house items that will make your home decor all the more interesting. Now the day is ending, and this was a place of revelations with its history, nature and weather. The significance of the experience you have in Ordu will carry its importance throughout your life.