Kozak Yaylası

About Kozak Yaylası

Kozak Yaylası is a highland plateau between Bergama and Ayvalık, lying 500 to 1000 metres above sea level and starting about 20 kilometres from Bergama. It is one of the main upland recreation areas in the north of İzmir province, known above all for its stone pines and the pine nuts they produce, as well as for local weaving. Bergama Municipality calls the plateau a nature paradise where some of the best pine nuts in Turkey are grown, and notes that its pine nuts, grapes and wine have been famous since antiquity. Stone pines are densest around the Yukarıbey area, and many local families make their living from them. Plane trees and Turkey oaks also grow here. The plateau has picnic areas, and nature and village tours, mountaineering and hunting are organised in the area. Near Aşağıbey village there are Roman-period baths and the ancient city of Perperene. Wildlife recorded by Visit İzmir includes birds such as the masked shrike, woodpeckers, chaffinches and blackbirds, and mammals such as jackals, wild boar, hares and badgers.