Things To Do
in Dereli
Dereli is a rural mountain town in Giresun Province on Turkey's Black Sea coast, surrounded by steep forests and rushing streams. It serves as a quiet gateway to lush valleys and traditional Turkish village life, offering a mix of nature, farming heritage, and warm hospitality. The area is known for its verdant landscapes, coffeehouses, and seasonal harvests that reflect Black Sea culture.
Visitors come here to hike in pine and beech forests, sample coastal flavors, and experience rural Anatolian life away from crowd-filled tourist spots.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in the picturesque town of Dereli and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll to familiarize yourself with the area, enjoying the charming architecture and the crisp mountain air. Stop by a local café for a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring fresh bread, olives, and local cheeses.
Spend the afternoon exploring the surrounding nature, perhaps embarking on a guided hike through the scenic mountains that frame the town. Breathe in the fresh air and take in breathtaking views of the landscape while listening for the sounds of local wildlife. Visit a nearby cultural site to learn about Dereli's rich history and traditions.
As the sun sets, enjoy a meal at a traditional restaurant, tasting delicious local dishes made from seasonal ingredients. Engage with the locals, who are often eager to share stories about their lives in this beautiful region. Conclude your first day with a relaxing walk through town, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
After breakfast, prepare for a day outdoors by gathering supplies for a picnic. Head to the nearby Dereli Forest, where you can enjoy a morning hike surrounded by towering trees and vibrant flora. Take your time to appreciate the beauty of nature, perhaps stopping to sketch or photograph the scenery.
Find a scenic spot to enjoy your picnic lunch while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. Post-lunch, embark on a guided bird-watching tour, where you can spot a variety of bird species that inhabit the area. The afternoon sun will make the vibrant colors of nature even more exhilarating.
Return to town in the early evening to freshen up and relax. Dine at a local eatery renowned for its fresh fish and regionally produced wine. After dinner, take part in a cultural performance, perhaps a folk dance or music, offered by the local community.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🛏️One-night stay in budget hotel | $25-50 |
| 🚌Local transport (short ride) | $1-5 |
| 🧺Local souvenir item | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful forested surroundings and fresh air
- Relaxed pace of life and friendly locals
- Affordable food and lodging
- Good base for hiking and nature photography
- Limited nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
- Smaller scale facilities and fewer English speakers
- Can be rainy and foggy in shoulder seasons
- Roads can be winding and challenging in bad weather
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Güle güle" - Goodbye
- "Nerede tuvalet?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
Places to Visit in Dereli
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic view of pine forests, terraced fields, and the town below especially dramatic at sunrise.
A quiet river path with reflections of trees and traditional stone bridges, ideal for golden hour shots.
A hilltop edge where mossy stones and wildflowers frame the mountains in the distance.
Food in Dereli
Dereli Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed or gently simmered anchovies with tomatoes and herbs, often enjoyed with rice or corn bread.
Must-Try!
Melted cheese and butter cooked with cornmeal slurry; typically served with bread for dipping.
A flaky pastry stuffed with cheese or potatoes, reflecting Black Sea Laz cultural influence.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh hamsi, corn bread, herbs, fruit, and local crafts; a great place to sample street foods like fried corn cakes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A courteous 'Merhaba' (Hello) or 'Günaydın' (Good morning). Address elders with respect; a light handshake is common.
Conservative clothing is appropriate in villages and religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered for some places.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in homes or private farms.
Safety
Tipping in Dereli
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary for good service; round up the bill or leave 5-10% in cafes and restaurants. Small tips to hotel staff and guides are appreciated.
Turkish Lira commonly used; major cards accepted in towns and accommodations; carry cash for markets and smaller eateries.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with fresh greenery; frequent showers—pack a light rain jacket and waterproof footwear.
Warm days but cooler at higher elevations; humidity moderate to high; carry water and a hat.
Rugged colors as leaves turn; ideal for forest hikes and photography; more rainfall begins.
Cold and wet; some higher trails may be snowy or icy; ensure proper footwear and layers.
Dereli at Night
Hiking in Dereli
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate day hike through spruce and beech forests with viewpoints over valleys.
Short hike to a nearby waterfall with lush greenery, ideal for photography.
Airports
How to reach Dereli by plane.
Major international gateway serving the region; drive about 100-140 minutes to Dereli depending on traffic and route.
Alternative airport serving the region; usually a shorter drive if coming from Ordu or nearby areas; check flight options seasonally.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily families living in Dereli and surrounding rural villages; strong agricultural and forestry practices.
Active communities along rivers and coastal routes contributing to local markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Most popular team sport in the region with local clubs and enthusiastic fans.
Traditional Turkish wrestling celebrates strength and community, commonly seen in rural events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dereli.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on vegetable stews, cornmeal dishes, lentil soup, and fresh salads; request olive oil-based preparations and avoid fish-based broths.