The Black Sea region of Turkey might come as a bit of a surprise to those who think of Turkey as a hot, dry country. With mile upon mile of sheltered, clean beaches this beautiful area is largely untouched. From the border of Bulgaria to the border with Georgia, thick pine forests cover the mountain-tops while green vegetation and crops grow in the lower reaches and in the valleys. The climate in this region is cooler than in most parts of Turkey and as such even in the height of summer it rarely becomes too hot. These coastal regions in the north are well worth a extra visit due to the many bathing spots with good sandy beaches and also because the area is steeped in history.

A large majority of people living in this region of Turkey make a living off the land. Corn is the most important crop grown here which differs from other areas of Turkey where it is mainly wheat. More than one-third of the country’s corn production is grown in this region. There are other important crops grown here as well including; potatoes, onions, sunflowers and hemp. Tea is also very important and is only grown in the Eastern Black Sea region.

There are many ports and fishing villages in this picturesque region of Turkey such as Samsun with its natural beauty. The port has its place in history as the spot where Ataturk first landed to begin the War of Independence. The most famous image of this city is the monument of Ataturk on a rearing horse and there is a Museum and Library with exhibits depicting the National Struggle. Ordu is another distinctive Black Sea Town that is blanketed in Hazelnut groves, a common site in this region, which go on for miles. Ordu hosts an annual “Golden Hazelnut” festival in the autumn with the local chocolate-nut confection a delicious speciality. Fatsa, Bolaman, Yalikoy, and Persembe, to the east of Ordu, are holiday towns rich in natural beauty and gorgeous beaches.