Located within the borders of Sinop province, Hamsilos Bay is a remarkable sea inlet extending 300-400 meters inland from the mouth of Deveci Creek. Situated on İnceburun, Turkey’s northernmost point, this natural formation is an exquisite blend of geological history and breathtaking scenery, offering a glimpse into the forces that have shaped the region over millennia.

Despite its popular designation as Turkey’s only fjord, Hamsilos Bay is not, in fact, a fjord. Fjords are glacially carved valleys that are subsequently flooded by seawater, a formation unattainable in Turkey due to the country’s climatic and geological history. During the last glacial period, valley glaciers in Turkey only extended to approximately 2,200 meters below mountain peaks, never reaching sea level. Consequently, no fjords formed along Turkey’s coastline. Instead, Hamsilos Bay is a ria-type coast, shaped when rising post-glacial sea levels inundated the eroded valley of Deveci Creek. This unique evolution gives the bay its distinctive topography, characterized by a deep and winding inlet reminiscent of glacial formations yet rooted in fluvial erosion processes.

From an aerial perspective, Hamsilos Bay intriguingly resembles the head of an elephant. The curvature of the bay, combined with its narrow and elongated inlets, creates an uncanny likeness to the gentle giant, adding to the location’s allure. As one ventures further inland, the landscape transforms, becoming increasingly lush and forested. The only route leading to Hamsilos Bay is a scenic drive through Akliman, a well-known coastal stretch that serves as the gateway to this natural wonder.

Hamsilos Bay is located 11 kilometers from Sinop city and approximately 10 kilometers from İnceburun, Turkey’s northernmost point. It is positioned 1 kilometer north of Akliman Bay, another popular coastal retreat. The bay, marked at 42°03′40″N 35°02′36″E, lies to the west of Sinop and to the east of the İnceburun Lighthouse. Spanning approximately 250 meters in width, the bay opens towards the east and is flanked by dense forests and rugged coastlines. The well-paved highway from Sinop ensures a comfortable drive to this secluded spot, making it an accessible yet pristine getaway.

In 2007, the 67.9-hectare expanse encompassing Hamsilos Bay and Akliman was officially designated as a nature park, securing its status as a protected ecological site. The park is a refuge for rare and endemic plant species, boasting six notable examples:

• Wild carnation (Dianthus spp.), a resilient bloom adorning the coastal cliffs,
• Kastamonu onion (Allium kastamonense), a delicate yet hardy species native to the region,
• Camel thorn (Alhagi maurorum), a drought-resistant shrub,
• Goat’s beard (Aruncus dioicus), known for its feathery, plume-like flowers,
• Spurge (Euphorbia spp.), a diverse genus of flowering plants,
• Sinop crocus (Crocus concinnus), a rare floral gem found exclusively in the province.

The park’s verdant landscapes, rich in biodiversity, make it a haven for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and bird watchers. However, the prospect of a nuclear power plant in İnceburun threatens to alter the region’s ecological balance. If such development proceeds, public access to this treasured natural site may be restricted, raising concerns among environmental advocates.

Beyond its geological and ecological significance, Hamsilos Bay holds historical importance as well. Owing to its deep, sheltered waters, it once served as a natural harbor for maritime vessels. Its strategic position along the Black Sea coast made it a safe anchorage point for sailors seeking refuge from turbulent waters. Today, while no longer a bustling port, the bay remains a cherished site for recreational boating and fishing.

Though widely referred to as Hamsoros by locals, Hamsilos Bay retains an air of mystery and tranquility. This hidden gem, where the lush forests meet the shimmering waters of the Black Sea, offers visitors an immersive experience in nature. Whether explored by foot along its scenic trails or by boat gliding through its serene waters, the bay promises a captivating encounter with Turkey’s untamed northern frontier.