Glacial Lakes in the Karagöl Mountains

This is the most serious hiking in Giresun. The Karagöl mountains hold lakes left by the ice age at over twenty five hundred metres, with patches of snow unmelted even in midsummer.

Getting there: the road climbing from Dereli is unsurfaced towards the end and may require a high vehicle. About three hours from the centre. Outside July to September access is generally not possible.

The day: reaching the lakes requires walking; the waymarking is not clear everywhere and the weather changes fast, which is why going with a guide is the right choice. The route taking in alpine meadows, boulder fields and the dark water of the main lake fills a full day. Because of the altitude, keep the pace low. The landscape is quite unlike the familiar green of the Black Sea; here the forest ends and bare rock and meadow begin.

Eating: there is nothing along the route. Carry food, water and a flask; there are hot meals in Dereli on the way back.

Tips: proper footwear, a windproof and a waterproof are essential, as conditions can change within an hour. There are wide areas with no phone signal, so download your route and tell someone where you are going. Do not set out alone.