On the surface, Kozalan Köyü may appear to have few attractions and some travelers choose not to stop. Yet the village has a quiet appeal for those seeking a different kind of experience.
If your trip is about golden sand beaches, lively nightclubs and international restaurants, continue on. But if you prefer an off-the-beaten-path destination that introduces you to local culture and home-cooked food, diverse plant and animal life, and striking landscape views, make time to stop.
Kozalan village is small; official counts list only a few dozen residents. It is best known for its traditional house style: sturdy stone bases with timber-framed upper sections and simple tin roofs.
During a walk through the village I encountered only a couple of people and no hotels. The real draw is the surrounding countryside, where fields support a variety of endemic plants and wildlife. Vultures and eagles are frequently seen, and the area suits trekkers, photographers and anyone who enjoys wide open spaces and nature.
Pear Scrumping in Kozalan Köyü
I confess I gave in to the temptation of scrumping. For readers unfamiliar with the term, scrumping is the old-fashioned act of picking fruit from orchards without permission. It’s not the same as shoplifting, but as a childhood pastime it felt mischievous rather than criminal.
Walking away with both hands full of crisp green pears, I felt a mix of guilt and a playful thrill at reliving a youthful transgression. The fruit was delicious and the moment was a simple reminder of why rural places often feel timeless.
The Graveyard
Across the road from the orchard a steel gate opens onto a small cemetery. At first it felt awkward to wander among graves, but curiosity drew me in to read the headstones. Some inscriptions mark people who lived long, full lives.
Locals call the site “King’s Throne” because the scattered graves across the hillside form a shape that resembles a large throne when viewed from a distance. The ground is covered in leaves and tall grass; occasional rustling sets the imagination racing about snakes, but those worries fade when you take in the expansive view.
Accommodation Near Kozalan Köyü and Beypazarı
Kozalan Köyü itself has no hotels, but there is a small lodge approximately 4 km away called Doganbey Turizm, which serves as a convenient base for exploring the village and the nearby Inozu Valley. The lodge can also help arrange local guides and provide practical information for visitors.
Whether you plan a short stop or a longer exploration, Kozalan offers quiet rural charm, rich birdlife and simple pleasures like fresh fruit picked straight from the tree.