Yason Burnu and the Boztepe Peninsula of Ordu: Black Sea Lighthouses and Quiet Coves

Discovering Yason Burnu: Ordu's Hidden Peninsula

Yason Burnu is a small, photogenic peninsula jutting into the Black Sea near the town of Perşembe, about 30 minutes west of Ordu. Despite its beauty, it remains largely overlooked by foreign travelers, who tend to bypass this stretch of coast in favor of better-known destinations. Those who do make the journey are rewarded with a serene landscape where ancient history, a working lighthouse, and calm swimming coves come together in one compact area.

The name 'Yason' is thought to derive from Jason, the mythological leader of the Argonauts, who is said to have passed through this region in search of the Golden Fleece. Whether or not the legend holds true, the peninsula has long been a place of significance, with ruins of a 19th-century church and a lighthouse that still guides ships along the Black Sea coast. The atmosphere is peaceful, especially in the late summer when the crowds thin out and the weather remains warm and pleasant.

Ancient Church Remains and a Working Lighthouse

At the tip of the peninsula, you'll find the remains of a stone church, believed to have been built in the 1800s on the foundations of an older Byzantine structure. The roofless walls and arched windows frame the sea beautifully, making it a favorite spot for photographers. Although it's a ruin, the site is well-maintained and free to visit, with a small cafe nearby for tea or coffee.

Just steps away stands a working lighthouse, a white tower with a red lantern that has been in operation since the mid-20th century. It's not open for climbing, but you can walk right up to it and watch the waves crash against the rocks below. The contrast between the ancient stones and the modern beacon is a striking reminder of how this coast has been a navigational aid for centuries.

Calm Swimming Coves and Fresh Fish

Unlike many parts of the Black Sea known for strong currents, the coves around Yason Burnu are surprisingly calm, making them ideal for swimming from late June through September. The water is clear and cool, and the small pebble beaches are rarely crowded. Bring water shoes, as the entry can be rocky, and enjoy a refreshing dip with views of the lighthouse and the green hills behind you.

After swimming, head to one of the simple fish restaurants in the nearby village of Çaytepe or in Perşembe. The catch of the day might include hamsi (anchovy), istavrit (horse mackerel), or levrek (sea bass), grilled or fried and served with fresh salad and bread. The warm hospitality of the local people will make you feel like a guest rather than a tourist.

Ordu's Boztepe Peninsula and Cable Car

Back in Ordu, the Boztepe Peninsula rises steeply behind the city, offering panoramic views of the Black Sea and the hazelnut orchards that blanket the hillsides. The easiest way up is the Ordu Teleferik (cable car), which runs from the city center to the top of Boztepe in about 15 minutes. The ride itself is an attraction, with sweeping vistas of the coastline and the city below.

At the summit, you'll find cafes, picnic areas, and walking trails. It's a great place to watch the sunset or simply relax with a glass of Turkish tea. The cable car operates year-round, but late summer is particularly pleasant, with mild temperatures and clear skies. From Boztepe, you can also see the lights of Yason Burnu in the distance, twinkling across the bay.

Hazelnut Farms and Local Life

Ordu is Turkey's hazelnut capital, and the surrounding countryside is dotted with family-run farms. In late August and early September, you can see farmers harvesting the nuts by hand, a tradition passed down through generations. Some farms welcome visitors for a tour, where you can learn about the process and taste freshly roasted hazelnuts.

The hazelnut orchards also provide a beautiful backdrop for drives along the coast. Rent a car or join a local tour to explore the villages around Perşembe and Ordu, where you'll find stone houses, tea gardens, and friendly locals eager to share their way of life. It's a side of Turkey that many travelers miss, and it's all the more rewarding for it.

Planning Your Visit: Weather, Timing, and Tips

The best time to visit Yason Burnu and Ordu is from late August to early October, when the summer crowds have dissipated and the weather is still warm enough for swimming. Daytime temperatures hover around 25°C (77°F), and the sea remains pleasant. Spring is also lovely for hiking, though the water is cooler.

To get there, fly into Ordu-Giresun Airport (OGU), which has direct flights from Istanbul and Ankara. From the airport, it's a 40-minute drive to Ordu city center and another 30 minutes to Yason Burnu. Buses and dolmuş (minibuses) also run regularly from Ordu to Perşembe. Once there, taxis or rental cars are the easiest way to explore the peninsula and nearby coves.

Accommodation options range from boutique hotels in Ordu to simple guesthouses in Perşembe. For the most authentic experience, consider staying in a village house or a hazelnut farm stay. Just remember to bring cash, as not all small businesses accept credit cards.