islands Black Sea

Türkiye’s Black Sea coast is a dramatically beautiful part of the country, but not usually at the top of the list for those that are only looking for sand-and-sun. Beach life in the north of the country is best combined with a cultural holiday. Because it’s in the north of the country the season is shorter. The best time to visit for sun, sand and sea is in July and August.

Kefken Island, Sakarya

Kefken Island (Kefken Adası), north of Sakarya, with its interesting history, is reached from Cebeci Beach On this beautiful island which attracts lots of visitors to the area, there are the remains of a lighthouse, fortress walls and cistern, and it is possible to hike between them. Kefken Island is one of the top holiday destinations in Kocaeli.

Giresun Island, Giresun

Giresun Island is a small island that has an area of 4 hectares and lies 1.2 km from the Turkish city of Giresun on the south-eastern coast of Black Sea. It is the largest island on the Turkish Black Sea coast. In historical times, the island was likely used by 6th or 5th century BC Greek colonists from the mainland city of Kerasous (presently the city of Giresun). On the island are the ruins of a roofless stone temple, fortifications, and ramparts, and two wine or oil presses. The roofless temple was in ancient times attributed to the Amazons who held religious rituals there. Archaeological studies suggest it was built in the Classical-Hellenistic era. A black round stone about 4 metres in diameter, called Hamza Taşı in Turkish, is located in the ruins of the temple. In the present day, this stone is the starting point for a walk as part of the annual Aksu festival and it considered a wishing stone for fertility and health.