Published on
January 12, 2026
Çal Cave has emerged as one of Trabzon’s most compelling natural attractions, drawing growing attention from travelers seeking immersive experiences in nature and adventure tourism. Located in the Düzköy district at an altitude of 1,050 meters above sea level, the cave welcomed 178,500 visitors in 2025, reflecting its rising profile within the Eastern Black Sea region. Known for its dramatic limestone formations, underground waterways, and scenic surroundings, the cave offers visitors a rare opportunity to explore a landscape shaped by millions of years of geological activity.
The interior of Çal Cave is defined by a complex system of tunnels and chambers that branch approximately 200 meters from the main entrance. One section leads visitors along a 150-meter path through limestone hollows created by erosion and natural collapse, revealing intricate textures and patterns on the cave walls. Another route extends around 400 meters and features a tranquil underground lake and a cascading waterfall, providing one of the cave’s most visually striking highlights. Natural air circulation through cracks in the rock creates a refreshing environment, giving the sensation of walking through an open valley despite being deep underground.
Seasonal changes add to the cave’s dynamic character. The stream flowing through the cave varies in depth throughout the year, altering the atmosphere and visual appeal of the interior. These natural fluctuations ensure that no two visits are exactly alike, enhancing the sense of discovery for returning visitors.
Although approximately eight kilometers of Çal Cave have been explored by researchers, only about one kilometer is currently accessible to the public. This limited access allows visitors to experience the most remarkable sections while preserving large portions of the cave in their natural state. The cave remains open year-round, attracting travelers in all seasons. Supporting facilities around the site include rest areas, a teahouse, and dining options located near the historic fortress above the cave, offering visitors a complete experience that blends natural exploration with local culture.
Visitor numbers have continued to grow steadily, with a reported increase of 4 percent compared to the previous year. The surrounding Düzköy area further enhances the destination’s appeal, with its highlands, rivers, and lakes drawing nature lovers throughout the year, particularly during the summer months. Together, these attractions position the district as a versatile destination suited to both short visits and extended stays.
To support rising demand, tourism planning initiatives are underway to improve infrastructure around Çal Cave. Proposed developments focus on managing traffic flow, expanding parking capacity, and enhancing visitor access routes. These measures aim to improve safety and comfort while protecting the cave’s fragile ecosystem and surrounding landscape. Once implemented, the projects are expected to significantly improve the overall visitor experience.
Çal Cave is also gaining increasing international recognition. While recent years have seen strong interest from visitors from the Middle East, growing attention from markets such as China and the Caucasus is expected to further diversify arrivals. With continued promotion and infrastructure improvements, annual visitor numbers are projected to exceed 200,000 in the near future.
Beyond tourism, the cave holds scientific and educational importance. Its ancient formations offer valuable insight into geological processes, water movement, and subterranean ecosystems. Researchers and students continue to study the cave as a natural archive of environmental history, adding academic value to its tourism appeal.
Çal Cave stands as a strong example of sustainable tourism development in the Eastern Black Sea region. By balancing visitor access with conservation efforts, the site demonstrates how natural heritage can be preserved while contributing to local economic growth. Carefully managed tourism initiatives ensure that the cave remains both accessible and protected for future generations.
With its winding underground passages, striking stalactites and stalagmites, hidden waterfall, and serene lake, Çal Cave offers a distinctive experience for travelers seeking nature, adventure, and discovery. As infrastructure upgrades progress and global interest continues to grow, the cave is set to remain a flagship attraction in Trabzon’s tourism landscape and a standout destination in Türkiye’s expanding nature tourism sector.
