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French adventurer and nature enthusiast Jean Luc Ginhoux, aged 61, has cycled all the way from France to eastern Türkiye, covering approximately 7,000 kilometers (4,350 miles) over the past 12 weeks. His destination: Balik Lake, one of Türkiye’s highest-altitude lakes, located in Agri province near the country’s eastern border.
Driven by his love of nature and passion for discovering different cultures, Ginhoux embarked on his solo expedition to experience authentic interactions with people along the way. After traversing several European countries, he crossed into Türkiye, exploring various regions before reaching the challenging highlands of Taslicay district and the rugged trails surrounding Balik Lake.
Throughout his demanding journey, Ginhoux has camped outdoors, often facing harsh weather conditions. Yet, he says the warmth of the people he met along the way outweighed any difficulty.
He described the Turkish people as “incredibly welcoming and kind,” adding that during his route across Türkiye, many greeted him, offered food and drinks, and made him feel at home. “The food is delicious,” he said, smiling, “and I’ve been met with so much kindness wherever I go.”
Ginhoux noted that his travels have taken him past Mount Agri—Türkiye’s highest peak—and the Ishak Pasha Palace, a striking example of Ottoman and Persian architectural fusion. These sites, he said, offered unforgettable views and a glimpse into the deep layers of local history.
A former academic in France, Ginhoux has long combined his professional life with his adventurous spirit. His current cycling expedition follows years of mountaineering across regions such as the Himalayas and Tajikistan’s highlands.
He carries all his essentials on his bicycle—tent, food supplies, and tools—and prefers to sleep in his tent instead of hotels. “It’s not always easy, but it’s rewarding,” he explained. “Cycling allows me to meet people and see places in a way that no other form of travel can.”
After exploring eastern Türkiye, Ginhoux plans to continue his journey through Georgia and onward to Uzbekistan, where he hopes to visit the historic Silk Road cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva.
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