Mount Ida Travel Guide: One of Turkey's Most Fascinating Mountains
If you are looking for a quiet and mesmerising place in the north of the Aegean where you can be alone with nature, the Ida Mountains are for you. With its mythological past, rich vegetation and cool plateaus, it offers an ideal route for both those seeking peace and those who love to explore. In this article, you can find all the details you may wonder about, such as how to get to Mount Ida, where else to visit in the region, and what activities to do.
(Cover Source: Küçükkuyutur)
Historical and Mythological Importance of Mount Ida
Mount Ida, also called Mount Kaz locally, has a history dating back to Ancient Greece. Mentioned in Homer's Iliad, it is described as the site where the gods watched the Trojan War. It is also the mythological location where Paris presented the Golden Apple to Aphrodite. Consequently, Mount Ida serves not only as a hiking destination but also as a site of mythological and archaeological significance.
Historically known as the mountain of the gods, this region has hosted many civilisations. It has seen various settlements and cultural exchanges during the Trojan, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman eras.
Natural Beauties and Biodiversity of Mount Ida
Mount Ida is one of the regions with the highest oxygen content in the world. It is said to be second only to the Alps in this respect. The region is also a natural area protected by the Kazdağı National Park and is home to more than 800 plant species. Approximately 77 of these plants are endemic, meaning that they are found only in this geography.
In addition to a wide variety of vegetation such as pine forests, oak trees, chestnut, linden and laurel, wild animals such as bear, fox, roe deer, jackal, and wild boar live in the national park.
Places to Visit in the Ida Mountains
When you visit the Ida Mountains, you have the chance to discover not only forests and hiking trails, but also impressive natural and historical spots:
Hasanboğuldu and Sütüven Waterfalls
One of the most popular natural wonders of the Ida Mountains, Hasanboğuldu Waterfall is surrounded by rich greenery and cool waters. Sütüven Waterfall, located right next to the waterfall, is a popular destination for those who want to cool off in the summer months. The Legend of Hasanboğuldu also adds a romantic atmosphere to this region.
Sarıkız Hill
Sarıkız Hill, the highest point of Mount Ida, has an altitude of 1774 metres. Walks here are usually organised with a guide because the route is challenging. The legend of Sarıkız is one of the most well-known folk narratives that gives this hill its name.
Adatepe Village
Adatepe Village, decorated with stone houses, narrow streets and olive trees, stands out with both its historical and artistic aspects. The Adatepe Olive Oil Museum in the village is ideal for those who want to get to know the agricultural culture of the region more closely.
Yeşilyurt Village
Yeşilyurt Village, located at the foot of the Ida Mountains, is perfect for travellers looking for calmness with its peaceful atmosphere, traditional architecture and boutique hotels. There are also local shops selling organic products in the village.
Kazdağı National Park
There are many hiking routes, picnic areas and camping sites within the national park. Especially, valleys such as Ayı Creek and Zeytinli Creek offer great opportunities for nature photographers.
Source: Kazdağı Tur
How to get to Mount Ida?
It is very easy to get to Mount Ida. It can be reached in about 5-6 hours by private car from Istanbul and around 3 hours from Izmir. The nearest airports are Edremit Koca Seyit Airport (Balıkesir) and Çanakkale Airport. Especially Edremit Airport is much closer to the mountains and villages.
Those who want to reach the mountain by bus can take minibuses to the interior of the Ida Mountains after arriving at coastal towns such as Ayvalık, Edremit, Akçay, Altınoluk or Küçükkuyu.
Activities to do in Mount Ida
Mount Ida is not just about hiking. The region offers a wide range of experiences for travellers with different interests:
Trekking and Nature Walks: Routes such as Sarıkız Peak, Bear Creek, and Zeytinli Valley are suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.
Camping and Glamping: There are both natural areas for tent camping and comfortable glamping options in the region.
Yoga and Meditation Camps: Thanks to its silence and intertwined with nature, Kazdağları is also home to various retreats and yoga camps.
Olive Harvest Tours: You can interact with local people and experience traditional agriculture with olive harvest tours organised in the villages, especially in autumn.
Photography: Natural landscapes, foggy mornings and stone villages offer unique shots for both professional and amateur photographers.
Legends Tour: With guided tours, you can visit the places where mythological stories take place and witness the legendary atmosphere of Kazdağları.
The Best Time to Visit Mount Ida
Mount Ida can be visited in four seasons. However, spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are the months when nature is the most vibrant and the temperature is the most ideal. While it becomes an escape point due to its coolness in summer, it takes on a completely different beauty with its snow view in winter.
Places to See in the Surroundings of Mount Ida
The surroundings of Mount Ida are full of places worth exploring as much as Mount Ida itself. You can extend your holiday for a few more days and visit the following points:
Assos Ancient City: Located in Behramkale, the ancient city is famous for its Temple of Athena and unique Aegean view.
Altınoluk and Akçay: Ideal coastal towns for those who want to combine nature with a sea holiday.
Küçükkuyu: This small town, which has become a favourite of artists and nature lovers, is known for its peaceful atmosphere.
Cunda Island (Ayvalık): Located one hour away from Mount Ida, this historical island is worth seeing with its stone houses and taverns.
Ancient City of Troy: If you head towards Çanakkale, do not pass without exploring the ancient city of Troy and its museum.
Ida Mountains Travel Tips
It is useful to join guided nature walks for your safety and to get information about the route.
Entrance to the National Park is chargeable and some areas are subject to camping bans.
It is generally safe to drink from the spring waters in the region, but it is always better to be cautious.
Make sure to take suitable footwear, a hat, sun cream and plenty of water.
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