Damal Yayla Evi is a farmstay and rural guesthouse located in the Damal district, approximately 30 kilometres south of Ardahan city in the high yayla (plateau) countryside of Ardahan province, northeastern Turkey. The property operates as an agritourism destination, immersing guests in the working rhythms of a traditional Anatolian highland farm and the wide, open plateau landscape that defines this corner of Turkey, at elevations exceeding 1,700 metres. Double and family rooms are available in a rural farmhouse setting, simply furnished and heated — essential for the cold nights that characterise the Ardahan plateau even in summer months. Farm breakfasts are a signature element of the stay, incorporating fresh Ardahan cheese, honey harvested from plateau bee colonies, homemade butter, and fresh bread: exactly the foods for which the Kars-Ardahan region is celebrated across Turkey. Half-board arrangements are available for guests who wish to take full advantage of the farm's produce at mealtimes, with dinner typically featuring home-cooked Anatolian dishes prepared from local ingredients. Horseback riding across the surrounding yayla can be arranged through the property, providing an exceptionally atmospheric way to experience the broad highland grasslands, volcanic ridgelines, and distant views that define the Damal area. The garden offers a pleasant outdoor space during the warmer summer months when the plateau blooms with highland wildflowers. Damal district itself is far less visited than Ardahan city or Çıldır Lake, meaning the yayla evi offers genuinely quiet and unhurried surroundings for visitors seeking rural Turkey away from even the modest tourist circuits of the northeast. Private transport is required to reach the property.
Room types
- Double
- Family room
Amenities
- Farm breakfast with local cheese and honey
- Half-board available
- Horseback riding arrangement
- Garden
Location
Damal Merkez, Damal, Ardahan
40.8920, 42.7345 View on map
Highlights
- Authentic agritourism farmstay on the Ardahan yayla at over 1,700 metres elevation
- Farm breakfasts with fresh local Ardahan cheese, plateau honey, and homemade bread
- Horseback riding across the open highland plateau can be arranged
- Half-board option available with home-cooked Anatolian dinners from farm produce
- Among the most highly rated accommodation options in Ardahan province
Tips for visiting
- Visit in summer (June–August) for the best plateau wildflower displays and most comfortable riding conditions.
- Arrange horseback riding sessions in advance — contact the hosts before arrival to confirm availability.
- Bring warm layers even in July; high-altitude nights on the Ardahan plateau can be unexpectedly cold.
- The half-board option is worth selecting as dining options in Damal village itself are very limited.
- Private vehicle is essential; Damal is served by infrequent local minibus connections from Ardahan city.
Accessibility
The property is a rural farmhouse on the Ardahan plateau and involves outdoor farmland terrain. Wheelchair or limited-mobility access is unlikely given the rural setting and farmhouse layout. Travellers with mobility requirements should discuss arrangements with the hosts directly before booking.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Damal Yayla Evi a working farm?
Yes, the property operates as an active farm alongside its guesthouse function. Guests can observe or participate in aspects of traditional plateau farming life, including cattle and sheep herding.
Can horseback riding be arranged for children?
Horseback riding is offered at the property and can typically be arranged for guests of varying ages, including children. Guests should confirm age and weight requirements with the hosts when booking.
What is included in the half-board rate?
Half-board typically includes the farm breakfast and an evening dinner of home-cooked Anatolian dishes. The specific menu varies by season and the farm's produce.
How do guests reach Damal Yayla Evi from Ardahan city?
Damal district is approximately 30 kilometres south of Ardahan city. Private car is the most reliable option; a local minibus service may operate but is infrequent and should be confirmed locally.