Humpback Bridge

Imagine a breathtaking bird's-eye stroll right along the sheer cliffs. The Arched Bridge (also known as the Humpback Bridge) is a unique engineering feat located in the majestic Horma Canyon in the province of Kastamonu. Stretching approximately 3 kilometers, the bridge literally "soars" over the gorge, connecting the canyon entrance with the stunning Ilıca Waterfall.

Humpback Bridge. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

This modern structure was built using 270 tons of steel and 500 cubic meters of wood, making it one of the most reliable and longest wooden cantilevered trails in the country. Suspended at heights of up to 60 meters above the ground, visitors can observe the pristine nature of the Küre Mountains National Park, a source of pride for northern Turkey.

For fans of active recreation and eco-tourism, this place has become a true discovery. The Arched Bridge is not just a crossing, but a complete panoramic route that allows you to safely explore the hard-to-reach beauty of one of the region's most picturesque canyons.

To plan your trip to this attraction, it's worth saving the current coordinates. Below are the contact details for the Arched Bridge in the city of Kastamonu:

The main highlight here is a scenic walk along the 3-kilometer route built into the canyon walls. With every step, new perspectives of the deep gorge and the rushing mountain river below will unfold. It is an ideal place for those who want to feel the scale of nature while remaining in complete safety on the sturdy walkway.

Photography enthusiasts should have their cameras ready: sheer walls up to 60 meters high and the interplay of light in the gorge create a stunning backdrop for photos. At the end of the path, the route culminates at the picturesque Ilıca Waterfall, where you can rest at its base and enjoy the sound of falling water surrounded by the lush greenery of the national park.

In addition to the walk, you can engage in birdwatching for rare species or study the local flora. The Pınarbaşı area is also excellent for organizing picnics at specially equipped sites, allowing you to spend a whole day in the fresh air away from the city bustle.

There are several ways to reach this unique site. If you are traveling by car from the center of Kastamonu, the drive will take about 1 hour. The route follows scenic mountain roads leading to the Pınarbaşı district, where the entrance to Horma Canyon is located.

For those who prefer public transport, regular buses are available from the city of Kastamonu to the town of Pınarbaşı. From there, you can reach the start of the hiking trail and the Küre Mountains National Park by local taxi or a short walk. Navigator coordinates: 33.776431, 41.3776263.

If you are in the city center, the easiest option is to use taxi services. Drivers are well-acquainted with the road to the canyon; however, it is advisable to discuss the fare in advance, given the distance of 40–50 kilometers from the city center to the natural area.

The history of the Arched Bridge, also known as the “Humpback Bridge,” began relatively recently. Construction of this grand structure started in 2016 under the auspices of the General Directorate of Nature Conservation and National Parks of Turkey. The main goal of the project was to develop ecological tourism and provide safe access to the hidden gems of Horma Canyon.

Work was carried out in the challenging conditions of rugged terrain and was completed in 2022. Before its official opening, the bridge underwent rigorous strength testing to ensure the complete safety of visitors. The first to walk the finished route were the Governor of Kastamonu province and other officials, marking the start of a new chapter in the region's tourism life.

Despite its modern nature, the bridge is harmoniously integrated into the landscape. Its construction required approximately 270 tons of steel and an impressive 500 cubic meters of wood. Today, this site is considered one of the most striking engineering attractions in the north of the country, highlighting the status of the Küre Mountains National Park as a center of attraction for nature lovers.

To fully experience this location, you should set aside at least 2–3 hours. The main part of the route is a 3-kilometer walk along the bridge itself, following the canyon walls. On average, the one-way journey takes about an hour and a half if moving at a relaxed pace with stops at the viewing platforms.

Additional time will definitely be needed at the end of the path, where travelers are greeted with a magnificent view of the Ilıca Waterfall. It is an ideal spot for resting and taking spectacular photos, so do not plan your visit in a rush.

The attraction is open for visiting at any time convenient for you. The Arched Bridge is open 24/7 (round-the-clock), seven days a week, including holidays and weekends.

Despite the 24-hour access, the most comfortable and safest time for a walk is during daylight hours, when you can fully enjoy the panoramic views of Horma Canyon.

Exploring the surroundings of Kastamonu will allow you to delve deeper into the atmosphere of northern Turkey. The combination of natural beauty and ancient architecture makes this region ideal for a packed weekend.