Güzelcehisar Lava Columns

A Story That Began 80 Million Years Ago

The Güzelcehisar Lava Columns are among the most distinctive geological formations on the Black Sea coast. These hexagonal prism columns, formed as lava cooled and solidified approximately 80 million years ago, rise from the sea side by side like a wall built by a master architect.

This columnar lava wall runs from the western end of Güzelcehisar village’s long beach all the way to Mugada, lining the entire coastline.

What Makes Them Special?

The most famous example of this type of basalt column formation, which exists in only a handful of places worldwide, is the Giant’s Causeway in Ireland. The Güzelcehisar columns offer the same geological process in a far less well-known — and therefore far quieter — setting.

In morning light: When the early morning sun strikes from the east, the contrast between black basalt and golden light creates a striking photographic scene.

At sunset: The westward-facing shore presents the sunset reflected in the colours of the Black Sea.

Güzelcehisar Village

As well as the lava columns, Güzelcehisar village itself — with its clean beach and green-fringed shoreline — is a relaxing destination in its own right. Small cafés and fish restaurants are available.

How to Get There

• From Bartın town centre: approximately 20 minutes by car (17 km)
• From Amasra: approximately 35–40 minutes by car
• On the Kurucaşile road; can be included in an Amasra–Bartın day itinerary