If life was truly a highway, this is definitely the road that exemplifies life.   It is definitely worthy of being called an adventure.  There are paved sections straight and wide-open, and there are narrow and perilous passes with no room for mistake.  There are hills and valleys each with their joys and challenges.   There dark tunnels with no light at the end which challenge your faith and resolve to reach the other side…if there is even one.  At times there are incredible views that cause you to pause and marvel at the beauty of the world, and at other times there is only the road ahead and the hope of getting to the eventual destination.  This highway is the new “Karadeniz Akdeniz Otoyolu”, Black Sea Mediterranean Sea Highway that at the moment is still under-construction.

The new highway is critical for the economic development of the Black Sea Region, especially Ordu.  One of Ordu’s primary economic challenges is transporting goods to and from the region to central Turkey and eventually the seaports in the south of the country.   Construction of a highway linking the two seas has been dream for more than 140 years, however crossing the Eastern Black Sea Mountains has not been feasible until now.   There are a few highways that cross the mountains, but these roads are dangerous, and in the winter months not easily passable.   The project began several years ago, and considerable progress has been made.    The majority of the tunnels are nearly complete, and road foundations have been laid.   The road is “open”, but only for those brave enough to try.    I would not try in my car, but this the perfect for an adventure motorcycle or 4×4.  In a couple years this highway will no longer be adventurous, but it will retain its beautiful scenery.

The best way to describe the adventure is with pictures.