The Black Sea And Northeastern Anatolia, Turkey
Sumela Monastery (Altındere Valley National Park): Approximately 50 km south of Trabzon. Iconic monastery, built into a cliff face.
Uzungöl: Picturesque lake town about 100 km southeast. Famous for its natural beauty and traditional wooden houses.
Ayder Plateau: Renowned highland plateau in Rize province, known for hot springs, lush green landscapes, and waterfalls. Approximately 160 km east.
Rize: The "Tea Capital" of Turkey, with sprawling tea plantations and a historic Rize Castle. Approximately 75 km east.
Giresun: Coastal city west of Trabzon, known for its castle and the unique Giresun Island. Approximately 140 km west.
Gümüşhane: Inland city known for Karaca Cave and Torul Castle, offering panoramic views. Approximately 90 km south.
Consider your travel preferences when choosing between guided tours and independent exploration.
Hassle-free transportation, often includes a guide, fixed itinerary. Good for solo travelers or those without a car.
Maximum flexibility, set your own pace, explore off-the-beaten-path spots, no waiting for others.
The region surrounding Trabzon holds many natural wonders for nature lovers.
Altındere Valley National Park, home to Sumela Monastery, and Kackar Mountains National Park preserve unique ecosystems and biodiversity.
The Black Sea coast offers dramatic contrasts between green, forested mountains and the sea. Inland, the Pontic Mountains provide endless scenic vistas.
Experience lush greenery in spring and early summer. Enjoy serene, snow-covered landscapes in winter, especially at higher elevations.
Uzungöl: Stunning lake in a narrow valley, surrounded by dense forests. Ideal for leisurely walks and photography.
Ayder Plateau: Known for green landscapes, waterfalls, and thermal springs. Part of the Kackar Mountains National Park.
Expand your historical and cultural understanding beyond Trabzon's city limits.
Vazelon Monastery Ruins: A less-visited, older monastery nestled in the mountains.
A medieval castle offering panoramic views from its strategic perch.
Visiting tea plantations in Rize or a yayla (highland village) in the Kackar Mountains or around Uzungöl.
Sumela Monastery was historically a major pilgrimage site for Orthodox Christians.
Beyond main landmarks, discover cultural insights.
See traditional wooden houses and experience local life.
Visit Rize to learn about tea production in the "Tea Capital."
Explore lesser-known sites like Vazelon Monastery for a sense of discovery.
Consider extending your trip to explore more of the region or venture into neighboring countries.
Spend a night or two in Uzungöl or Ayder Plateau for full immersion in the mountain atmosphere.
Dedicate a few days to explore the eastern Black Sea coast further, including tea plantations and dramatic landscapes.
Continue east to Kars (Ani ruins), Erzurum (architecture), or Doğubeyazıt (Ishak Pasha Palace).
Travel east from Trabzon to Rize, Ayder Plateau, and into Artvin province, then cross into Batumi, Georgia.
Fly into Trabzon, explore, then take a bus to Kars, Erzurum, and potentially Van, before flying out.
