Küre Mountains National Park

Küre Mountains National Park is located in the Black Sea region of northern Turkey, spanning parts of Kastamonu and Bartın provinces. Established in 2000, the park covers rugged mountainous terrain characterized by dense forests, deep river gorges, karstic landscapes, and caves. It encompasses a unique combination of flora and fauna, including extensive stands of old-growth beech and fir forests alongside endemic plant species. The park protects critically important habitats for wildlife such as brown bears, gray wolves, wild goats, otters, and numerous bird species. The Küre Mountains themselves represent part of the Western Black Sea mountain range, carved by rivers creating steep cliffs, waterfalls, and caves, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore numerous hiking trails that pass through scenic viewpoints and past historic villages with traditional wooden houses and Ottoman-era architecture. The park is also home to notable natural landmarks, such as the Valla Canyon—the deepest canyon in Turkey—and the Incekaya Aqueduct, an impressive stone structure from the Roman period. The biodiversity and geological formations provide for exceptional experiences in trekking, birdwatching, photography, and caving adventures. Küre Mountains National Park’s blend of nature and cultural heritage attracts visitors interested in exploring less commercialized, pristine wilderness areas of Turkey.