Ordu is a coastal city located along the Black Sea in northern Turkey. Known for its lush green landscapes, picturesque coastline, and rich culinary traditions, Ordu offers visitors a mix of nature, history, and unique regional experiences.
Places to Visit in Ordu:
- Boztepe: A hill overlooking the city, offering stunning panoramic views of Ordu and the Black Sea. You can reach Boztepe via a scenic cable car ride.
- Çambaşı Plateau: A popular spot for nature lovers, this plateau is known for its natural beauty, offering hiking trails, cool weather in the summer, and even a small ski resort in winter.
- Perşembe Plateau: Famous for its untouched nature and rolling green hills, ideal for camping and picnics.
- Yason Burnu Peninsula: A small cape with a historic lighthouse and a beautiful, tranquil atmosphere. It’s perfect for those who enjoy nature and history.
- Ulugöl: A serene lake surrounded by lush forests, perfect for relaxing walks and enjoying nature.
- Bolaman Castle: A small fortress with historical significance, located near the sea.
Local Cuisine:
Ordu’s culinary scene is rich with fresh seafood and local specialties:
- Pazı Tava: A dish made from chard leaves, typically served with corn bread.
- Hamsi (Anchovy): A staple along the Black Sea coast, often fried or grilled.
- Mısır Ekmeği: Cornbread, a common side dish in the region.
- Kabak Tatlısı: A dessert made from pumpkin, often served with tahini and walnuts.
Transportation in Ordu:
Ordu has an efficient city transport system with minibuses and buses that connect different parts of the city. The cable car ride to Boztepe is a popular and scenic way to explore. Taxis are readily available, and the city center is easily walkable for short distances.
Visiting Ordu was a refreshing experience, quite different from the other coastal cities I’ve been to in Turkey. There’s something incredibly calming about standing on Boztepe, looking down at the endless stretch of the Black Sea, with the cool breeze that seems to carry the spirit of the city.
What sets Ordu apart is its connection to nature. Whether it’s the verdant plateaus like Çambaşı or the quiet beauty of Ulugöl, the city offers a perfect retreat for those looking to escape urban chaos. The people here have a relaxed and warm demeanor, more eager to share stories about their city than to hurry through their day. They take pride in their local dishes especially their fresh seafood and there’s a distinct flavor to the anchovies here that I haven’t tasted anywhere else along the Black Sea coast.
One of the most memorable parts was the cable car ride to Boztepe. It’s a simple pleasure, but the view and the slow ascent gave me time to take in Ordu’s mix of blue and green landscapes, a blend I haven’t seen so intensely in other cities. The tranquility, the easy pace of life, and the hospitable locals make Ordu feel like a hidden gem, far removed from the busyness of larger tourist hubs.
