Nemrut Caldera Road: How Extreme is This Eastern Turkey Mountain Drive?

Nemrut Caldera is a high mountain road reaching an elevation of 2,779 m (9,117 ft) above sea level. Located in Bitlis Province in eastern Turkey, the road ascends from the town of Tatvan, on the western shore of Lake Van, and winds its way toward Nemrut Seyir Tepesi.

Mount Nemrut

Why is the Nemrut Caldera So Dramatic?

The caldera is an ancient volcanic crater, forming a natural amphitheater with steep cliffs and rugged slopes. At the summit, the road ends near a few communication towers and antennas, overlooking the expansive caldera and offering panoramic views of the eastern Anatolian landscape.

How Challenging is the Route to Nemrut Cald?

The route itself is 15 km long. The first 8.9 km are paved with cobblestones, climbing steadily to Nemrut Seyir Tepesi. From there, a 6 km unpaved section continues to the summit, with steep gradients and 15 hairpin turns, requiring a 4x4 vehicle.

Why Should Adventurous Drivers Attempt The Road to Nemrut Cald?

This road combines altitude, challenging terrain, and breathtaking scenery, making it a must-see for adventurous drivers—but it’s not for the faint of heart. The combination of steep slopes, tight turns, and the remote volcanic landscape makes this one of Turkey’s most dramatic mountain drives.
Pic: Yusuf d

 



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