Köprülü Kanyon (Koprulu Canyon), Turkey: The Experience

Koprulu Canyon (Köprülü Kanyon) was definitely one of my favourite stops during my time in Turkey; which is why I went twice! The landscape of pristine waters amongst tall cedar trees and rocky hills alongside deep canyons; gives a surreal impression.

Camping
We stayed in tents on a campground called Gökgesu, along the riverbed. The campground was well-kept and the family who ran the business were more than generous and very kind. The young daughters who lived on the grounds warmed our hearts and taught us a few Turkish words; like ‘Ateş’ means ‘Fire.’ The current of the river was steady but still we were able to swim; that is if the intense cold of the water did not repel you. 

Attractions

• Bogrum Bridge
  Only a short walk from the campground to arrive to the beautiful Bogrum Bridge which straddles the Kocadere stream. Here you can find locals making Gözleme (see below for definition) and comical images of leashed tourists taking on the cold of the waters in single-file. The canyon offers a nice opportunity to cliff-jump from the rocky sides; or for those more daring, from the bridge itself.
  

“Gözleme is a traditional savory Turkish flatbread and pastry dish, made of hand-rolled leaves of yufka dough that are lightly brushed with butter and eggs, filled with various toppings, sealed, and cooked over a griddle.”
(site- wikipedia)

• Eurymedon Bridge (Okuk Köprü)
  Oluk Köprü is the other main attraction of the Koprulu Canyon. The Bridge was constructed in the 2nd century AD and rests 27m above the Koprulu river. This is an excellent spot to do some White Water River Rafting.If you are staying at a major holiday hotel near the National Park you will be able to find an all-inclusive rafting tour, that will take you to and from the crystal blue river. If you are staying on the grounds, you should be able to walk to arrive to the starting point under the Oluk Köprü and sign up right there (about 25TL – $9CAD for a short trip to a waterfall).
  Check out this website for more information on White Water Rafting in the Koprulu Canyon.
• Ruins/Hiking
  Above the canyon are the ruins of the Ancient Roman city of Selge. The site still has the remains of a theatre, and the temples of Zeus and Artemis. It is a lovely hike amongst crowded cedar trees that give the feeling of being in a fairy-tale.

I would go back in a heartbeat to Köprülü Kanyon, to explore further amongst the 366 km2 and enjoy the beauties of nature.

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Experience Turkey
Secret campgrounds, ancient ruins, and small towns