History and General Information / Local Legends and Folklore
Gürcüoluk Cave Nature Park, formed within the karstic limestone formations of the Küre Mountains by groundwater erosion over millions of years, is one of Türkiye's registered natural wonders. Thousands of colorful stalactites, stalagmites, columns, curtain dripstones and cave needles inside the cave offer a fascinating view of the underground palace. Local people say that the cool air and high humidity of the cave, which was discovered during the years when Georgian immigrants settled in the region during the Ottoman period, were good for respiratory and asthma disorders, and the cave waters were believed to be healing. Geographical Structure, Altitude and Natural Features
It is located in the Gölyanı area of Makaracı Village, Amasra district center, at an altitude of approximately 280 meters. It is surrounded by a rich Black Sea forest cover consisting of beech, oak, hornbeam and chestnut trees. The temperature inside the cave remains constant around 12-14 degrees in summer and winter. Visiting Hours, Days and Entrance Fees
•Entrance Fee:Nature park entrance fee or free pass is applied.•Visiting Hours and Days (Mandatory): It is open to visitors 7 days a week between 09:00 - 18:00.•Rules, Safety and Baby Stroller/Disabled Access: The stalactites and stalagmites in the cave should not be touched; Since the ground is damp and slippery, non-slip sneakers should be worn and a cardigan should be carried. Not stroller and wheelchair accessible due to step walkways.•Facilities and Facilities:Nature hiking trails, wooden walking piers, viewing points, seating pergolas and parking are available. Transportation, Public Transit Routes and Exact Location•Address / Open Location:Makaracı Village, Gölyanı Mevkii, Amasra / Bartın.•Road Condition and Vehicle Availability: It is approximately 10 km away from Amasra town center and 22 km away from Bartın city centre; It can be easily reached by all kinds of passenger vehicles via the asphalt road and the asphalt-parquet connection within the forest.•Real Public Transportation Information (Mandatory): You can reach the nature park in 15 minutes by shuttles from Amasra center to the village or by local taxis.•Parking Availability:There is a free parking area for vehicles at the entrance of the nature park. Contextual Experience Tips, Photography and Local Gastronomy•Best Photography Spots and Frames:The illuminated stalactite columns inside the cave, the stalactite forests and the dense beech forest surrounding the cave entrance should be photographed.•Light and Shooting Hours:Since the interior of the cave is illuminated with artificial lighting, clear shots can be taken at any time of the day; A tripod is recommended for long exposures.•Local Gastronomy Recommendations:Chestnut honey, village butter, pancake and freshly brewed mountain thyme tea should be tasted at the village cafe upon your return from the trip.