Bastoncu Hotel

The best part was talking with the craftsman and hearing about the care that goes into making a walking stick. We first found the shop on Instagram and were welcomed so warmly. There are walking sticks, carving knives, kitchen knives, wooden spoons and cups, plus plenty more. If you're lucky, you may get to meet the craftsman and learn how the sticks are made. Make time for this shop if you're in Safranbolu.

I had to give one star, though even that feels too generous. The place was open, but they kept telling us they were closed and sent us away. We said we had come from Ankara, yet they offered no way to help and just repeated that we should come back Friday or Saturday. Their manner and attitude don't suit Safranbolu. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone who doesn't want to waste time and make the trip for nothing.

The products looked nice. I came all the way from Istanbul, but I'm sorry I didn't get to see you in person.

Tucked down a side street, this is a place worth seeking out if woodworking interests you. They have lovely handmade pieces, from walking sticks and axes to knives and camping gear. Their Instagram shows different workshop experiences, and appointments are needed. It's a family-run artisan business I'd keep following.