Ulukaya Waterfall, located within the boundaries of Ulukaya Village, which is affiliated with the Ulus district of Bartın province, is a waterfall that captivates with its natural beauty. The waterfall, near Drahna Canyon, is formed by water emerging from a rock cavity and cascading approximately 25 meters. At the point where the water falls, a "giant cauldron" with a depth of 1-1.5 meters and a pond with a width of 30-40 meters are formed. The canyon is approximately 1 kilometer long and 65-70 meters high.
Ulukaya Waterfall (T.C. Ulus Governorship )
Formation and Geographic Features
The waterfall is formed by natural underground water emerging from a rock cavity and falling from a height of approximately 25 meters. During this fall, the water eroded the rock surface, creating a "giant cauldron" over time. This cauldron where the waterfall flaws has become a pond area with a depth of approximately 1-1.5 meters and a width of 30-40 meters around it.
Drahna Canyon, where the waterfall is located, is approximately 1 kilometer long and 65-70 meters high. The canyon walls are steep and rocky; these structures have been shaped by the years of water flow and have taken their present form due to erosion. The water source that feeds the waterfall also meets part of the drinking water needs of the Ulus center. The region is notable for its rich water resources, steep canyon structure, and various rock formations. This geographic structure gives the region a unique characteristic, both hydrologically and geomorphologically.
Ecosystem
Ulukaya Waterfall and the surrounding Drahna Canyon stand out as a rich natural habitat. In this region—home to species such as water salamanders, water snakes, trout, and grayling—the local flora and fauna coexist in harmony with the preserved natural environment. Due to this biodiversity and its geomorphological significance, the area was designated a "Natural Protected Area" by the Ankara Cultural and Natural Assets Protection Board, affiliated with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, by a decision dated November 13, 1998, numbered 6015.
Ulukaya Waterfall (T.C. Ulus Governorship )
Mythological Narrative and Cultural Significance
Ulukaya Waterfall is notable not only for its natural beauty but also for its cultural and mythological narrative. Known among the people as the "Waterfall that Soothes the Pain of Love," according to the legend attributed to this natural wonder, Selamnos, a handsome and strong young man from Selamnosad, falls in love with Hera, a girl whose beauty is legendary. As Selamnos falls ill and becomes weak and frail, he loses Hera's love and affection, leading to great sorrow. The despairing young man attempts to end his life by jumping from the summit of Ulukaya.
However, the goddess of love, Eros, does not remain indifferent to this tragedy. Eros transforms Selamnos' lifeless body into water, creating the waterfall. According to the legend, the deep emotional distress that Selamnos experienced becomes part of the water's spirit. Therefore, anyone who drinks a sip of water, washes their face, or wets a handkerchief in Ulukaya Waterfall is cleansed of their heartache.
Social Function and Current Use
Ulukaya Waterfall is not only a natural tourist area but also an important functional water source for regional life. Part of the water flowing from the waterfall is used to meet the drinking water needs of the Ulus district center. The natural landscape it offers visitors, the mystical atmosphere created by the mythological narrative, and the purifying properties of the water have made Ulukaya Waterfall a significant destination for both ecotourism and cultural tourism. Today, Ulukaya Waterfall, a focal point for both local people and visitors, continues its existence as one of the natural highlights of the western region with its mystical narrative and preserved nature.
