Erzincan is a city in eastern Turkey, famous for its breathtaking landscapes, historical sites, and rich cuisine. Nestled between mountains and rivers, it’s a destination for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
Places to Visit in Erzincan:
- Girlevik Waterfalls: One of the most popular natural attractions in the region, these cascading waterfalls offer a beautiful setting for picnics and nature walks, especially in spring and summer.
- Ergan Ski Resort: Perfect for winter sports enthusiasts, this resort offers skiing, snowboarding, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Kemaliye (Eğin): A charming old town famous for its well-preserved traditional architecture, set along the Euphrates River. The town is also known for its stone streets and wooden houses.
- Altıntepe: An ancient Urartian fortress dating back to 850 BC, offering insights into the region’s ancient history.
- Otlukbeli Lake: Known for its mineral rich waters and striking red travertines, Otlukbeli Lake is a unique natural formation that stands out among Turkey’s natural wonders.
Cuisine of Erzincan:
- Erzincan Tulum Cheese: Famous across Turkey, this rich, flavorful cheese is made from sheep’s milk and has a distinctive sharp taste.
- Keşkek: A traditional dish made of boiled wheat and meat, often served during special occasions.
- Pestil and Köme: These are dried fruit based snacks, popular in Erzincan for their natural sweetness and chewy texture.
Transportation in Erzincan:
Erzincan has a modest but efficient public transportation system, mainly relying on buses and minibusses for city transport. The city is also accessible by train, as it lies on the main railway line connecting Ankara to the eastern regions of Turkey. Taxis and car rentals are also available for easier access to remote areas like the waterfalls and ski resort.
Visiting Erzincan felt like stepping into a world where nature and history blend effortlessly. Unlike the busy urban centers of Turkey, Erzincan has a calmness to it, almost as if time moves slower here. The locals are incredibly warm and welcoming, with a genuine interest in showing visitors the beauty of their city.
What sets Erzincan apart from other cities is its proximity to nature whether it’s the dramatic backdrop of mountains or the clear, rushing waters of the Euphrates. The Ergan Ski Resort surprised me with how developed it is, offering a great winter escape without the crowds you’d find in places like Uludağ. But perhaps my favorite part was wandering the quiet streets of Kemaliye, where the wooden houses and cobbled paths made me feel as though I had stepped back in time. The people there live with a close connection to nature, and their sense of pride in their heritage is palpable.
One thing that truly stood out was the city’s food culture. If you visit, Erzincan Tulum Cheese is a must-try. Its sharp, salty flavor pairs perfectly with local bread, and the experience feels like you’re tasting a piece of the land itself. The local markets are bustling with fresh produce and dried goods like pestil and köme, giving a real sense of the region’s agricultural richness.
Erzincan may not have the glamour of big cities, but its charm lies in its authenticity, the warmth of its people, and the untamed beauty of its landscapes. If you’re looking for a place where you can connect with nature and feel welcomed by the community, Erzincan is worth the journey.
