Başkonuş Highland

The Başkonuş Plateau (Başkonuş Yaylası) is a wonder of nature, hosting many indigenous flowers and plants, most notably hyacinth and orchid. It is also a stopover for migratory birds and a habitat for endemic birds, as well as deer. Trees such as firs, cedars, oaks, and junipers grow in abundance. In 1987, Başkonuş was established as a deer breeding preserve; sometime later, the deer were released into the wild. Trekkers will, at times, come across groups of deer. The area includes a rustic restaurant, chalets, recreation, and picnic areas, a camp and caravan site, playgrounds and hiking trails. There is an accommodation facility as well, about 1,325 metres above sea level. The hike to the summit of Başkonuş Plateau, which is around 1,850 metres above sea level, is 4,100 metres. The views of the surrounding landscape are magnificent. About 1,300 metres along the path to the summit is another path of about 1,200 metres that leads to the Sersem Plateaus, with an altitude of 1,650 metres. From this area, visitors can view storks stopping along their migratory routes.