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The Derebasi curves on Soganli Mountain, located between Bayburt and Trabzon and ranked among the most challenging roads in the world, have become an indispensable destination for thrill and adventure seekers.
Recognized in 2015 as the world's most dangerous road by the website Dangerousroads, the route connects Bayburt and Trabzon via the shortest path over Soganli Mountain at an altitude of 3,500 meters (11,483 feet).
Consisting of 13 sharp hairpins that cannot be cleared in a single turn, the Derebasi curves are estimated to be even more treacherous in certain areas than Bolivia's famous "Road of Death."
Due to their location on the Black Sea border, the Derebasi curves are prone to unpredictable natural phenomena such as dense fog, heavy rain, landslides, snow, and avalanches. Because of these harsh characteristics, the passage is known globally as an exceptionally difficult road.
In recent years, thanks to promotional efforts led by the Bayburt Governor’s Office, the Derebasi curves have transformed into one of the most important ecotourism routes in the province, welcoming thousands of adventure, photography, and nature enthusiasts every year.
While visitors enjoy the great outdoors and experience adrenaline-filled moments on bicycles, ATVs, motorcycles, and off-road vehicles, local residents continue to use the historic pass for daily transportation.
One of the visitors, Esra Akbas, said she chose this route for an early morning bicycle ride to gain altitude and build her physical conditioning. Speaking on her way back down after successfully conquering the pass, Akbas noted that each distinct hairpin offered a unique experience.
"It was not very crowded when I was going down in the morning hours, but I ran into an incredible crowd while coming back up," Akbas said, describing the wave of outdoor enthusiasts she met along the way.
"There were motorcyclists, cyclists, trekkers, and hikers. We chatted with many people from different provinces. There were also visitors from abroad. It is a wonderful feeling to meet with nature lovers in the heart of nature."
Pointing out that the region also boasts a unique landscape, Akbas added, "It was very sunny and beautiful in the morning hours. Now, a light fog has rolled in. The landscape revealed itself to us, and the mountains accompanied us.
"I will head toward the city center of Bayburt from the Soganli Pass. The scenery was incredibly beautiful. The curves were dangerous; looking down from a bird's-eye view gives an incredible thrill, and feeling the curves was a unique experience."
Local resident Mehmet Saral uses the Derebasi curves on a regular basis and has witnessed a massive influx of international tourists over the last few seasons.
"Motorcycle riders who choose this route experience great excitement," Saral explained. "But we really enjoy passing through here. Foreigners love the nature here. They say that a place like this doesn't exist anywhere else and that its view is among the finest in Europe."
The road's reputation is also pulling in regional athletes. Emrah Torunlar made the trip from Erzincan with his cycling group, stating that the challenging mountain pass has quickly become a bucket-list route for adventure enthusiasts.
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