2026 Rize Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in September)

Setting an alarm for 5:30 AM while on vacation feels like a self-inflicted punishment. Your bed is comfortable, the blackout curtains are doing their job, and every rational thought in your brain tells you to hit snooze. But there is a specific kind of magic that only exists during that brief thirty-minute window when a city transitions from total stillness to early morning light. Over my recent travels, I made it a personal habit to drag myself out of bed across different countries, simply to catch the first light. Looking back through my camera roll, every single missed hour of sleep was worth it. Here are seven completely different sunrise moments caught across Spain, Italy, Turkey, and Jordan—each with its own distinct mood, energy, and morning rhythm: 1-The Open Sea Edge: Barcelona Beach (Barcelona, Spain) Standing on the cold, soft sand of Barcelona before the city wakes up is an entirely different experience than visiting during the afternoon. The beach is completely empty save for a few early runners. The sun comes up directly over the horizon of the Mediterranean Sea, turning the gentle tide into liquid gold. There are no loud crowds, no street vendors, and no music—just the rhythmic, heavy sound of waves washing ashore against the quiet city backdrop. 2-The High-Angle Skyline: Barcelona Hotel Room View Sometimes you don't even need to leave your room to catch the magic. Stepping onto a hotel balcony just as the first pale light creeps over the horizon gives you a bird’s-eye perspective on the city. You watch the dark silhouettes of apartment blocks and grand avenues slowly gain color, the streetlights clicking off one by one, and the distant sea catching the very first glint of orange daylight while the streets below remain completely silent. 3-The Still Reflection: The Arno River (Pisa, Italy) If ocean sunrises are energetic, river sunrises are pure tranquility. Walking down to the Arno River in Pisa at dawn feels like stepping into a peaceful painting. The air is crisp and completely still, turning the surface of the river into a perfect, glassy mirror. The pastel pink and soft yellow hues of the sky reflect off the historic Italian facades lining the bank, with not a single tourist or tour bus in sight. 4-The Harbor Calm: Fethiye Marina View (Muğla, Turkey) Waking up in Fethiye to a hotel balcony view over the marina offers a distinct coastal charm. Early in the morning, the water inside the bay is as flat as glass. As the sun climbs over the surrounding pine-covered mountains, it casts long, warm rays across the harbor, lighting up the tall wooden masts of parked gulets and yachts. The only sound is the subtle clinking of boat ropes against masts and the distant call of seabirds. 5-The Mountain Cloud Oasis: Rize Bungalow Breakfast (Black Sea, Turkey) Far away from coastal beaches, sunrise in the green lush hills of Rize hits differently. Perched in a wooden bungalow overlooking steep tea plantations, the morning starts with heavy mist and low-hanging clouds rolling through the valleys. Watching the sun break through the mountain fog while sitting on a wooden deck with a spread of hot çay, local cheeses, freshly baked bread, and hazelnut butter is easily one of the most grounding travel experiences you can have. 6-The Golden Limestone Hills: Morning Streets of Amman (Jordan) There is a rugged, authentic beauty to watching sunrise in a hill city like Amman. As the sun rises over the eastern ridge, its warm golden light washes across the iconic white and cream limestone buildings stacked along the steep hillsides. The cool morning air carries the faint scent of fresh bread from neighborhood bakeries opening their doors, while the long shadows slowly shrink across the empty stone staircases and quiet residential streets. 7-The sunrise at the airplane ✈️. Looking through these moments, it becomes clear that every destination reveals its true, unfiltered character in the quiet of the morning before the rush of tourism takes over. So, I want to open this up to the community: Are you an early-bird traveler who sets alarms for sunrise photography, or are you strictly on team sleep-in until noon when you're on holiday? Out of these six styles, which sunrise setting speaks to you the most: beach waves, peaceful rivers, hotel room city views, mountain clouds over breakfast, harbor marinas, or quiet city streets? Drop your favorite morning travel photos and tips below—where is the best sunrise you've ever caught? 👇 #sunrisescenes #pisa #italytravel #italy #travel #spain #barcelona #jordan #airplane

this makes you feel like you are on the Clouds. and this is in Rize near Ayder Plateau in Huser Plateau but you have to reach there with off roads #huserplateau #travel #ayder

Last day in Camlihemsin, the hotel owner take Us to walk around the place look like in Old Town Bridge, Mostar...it’s so beautiful😍 #awesomepic #naturelover #urbanexplorer #naturalwonders #createwithtrip

While everyone else flocks to Turkey's coastal resorts and ancient cities, I chose to bid farewell to the Eurasian charm of Istanbul and fly north to this Black Sea sanctuary favored by time. Many know of Turkey's romance, but few realize that its north hides a lush, tranquil, and pristine paradise. Free from the noisy crowds, it offers only mountains, forests, seas of clouds, streams, and ancient civilizations, all quietly whispering the unique poetry and gentleness of the Black Sea.

#photovsrealitytravel The Photo: Sitting on a sunny wooden bungalow deck overlooking endless green tea plantations, standing above a clear "sea of clouds" in the high mountain plateaus, and taking pristine postcard shots of Uzungöl’s famous lake nestled peacefully between green alpine peaks. The Reality: Opening your cabin door at 8:00 AM to a solid wall of white fog with zero visibility, driving up steep mountain dirt roads in heavy mist, and arriving at Uzungöl only to find packed parking lots, crowded lakeside promenades, and dozens of tour buses! 🌫️🚗🚌 The Black Sea region is stunning, but it is unpredictable, raw, and very popular during peak season. How to Handle the Reality & Get the Best Experience: Highlands & Weather: The weather in Rize’s mountain plateaus (like Pokut or Ayder) changes every 20 minutes. Don't panic if it's completely whited-out with fog—sit down for hot Turkish tea (çay), because the sun often breaks through the clouds unexpectedly. Always pack a waterproof jacket and warmer layers, even in mid-summer! Highland Road Prep: Rent a solid 4WD vehicle or hire a local driver if you plan to venture up to the higher, remote plateaus. The narrow mountain switchbacks can get very muddy and slippery after rain. Beating the Uzungöl Crowds: If you want that tranquil lakeside feel, visit Uzungöl before 9:00 AM or stay overnight so you can walk the lake path after the day-trip buses leave. For the classic postcard view, skip the crowded main street and head up to the elevated hillside view terraces above the lake. Have you ever visited the Black Sea highlands or Uzungöl? Did you get clear sunny skies, or were you completely enveloped in the mountain fog? Let's hear your stories below! 👇

If you're planning an epic adventure in the north of Turkey—whether you're base-camping out in Trabzon or chasing emerald valleys around Rize—don't just whiz past these unreal mountains on a quick day tour. To soak up the real magic of the Karadeniz (Black Sea) region, you HAVE to spend at least one night cocooned in a mountain bungalow. Trust me, just passing through is major FOMO! Our stay at Dağlara Bungalov in Çamlıhemşin was basically the main character moment of our whole northern Turkey trip, and here’s why you’ve gotta add this to your bucket list: 🕯️ Nighttime Bliss: A Whole New Level of Cozy After a long day hopping around misty waterfalls and legendary old stone bridges, coming back to a super-warm wood cabin? That’s peak vibes. When the mountain air gets that fairy-tale crispness at night, the whole bungalow turns into your private spa zone. Light some candles by the window, fill up your in-room jacuzzi (yup, you read that right 💦), and just zone out as the shadows flicker across the timber ceiling. The only soundtrack? That distant rush of the Fırtına River. City hotels could NEVER. 🌅 First Light: Literally Waking Up Above the Clouds This is what you came for—the absolute magic of a Black Sea sunrise! If you zip back to the city at night, you’ll totally miss it. Step out onto your own balcony at dawn and BOOM: creamy mist rolls between the pine trees while the sunrays paint the peaks of Çamlıhemşin in dream-like gold and blue. It’s so peaceful, your only “alarm” is mountain silence and a cool breeze. IG stories can’t do it justice, trust. 🍳 Morning Feast: Turkish Breakfast with Main Character Views You can’t say you’ve done the Black Sea right if you skip breakfast here. At Dağlara Bungalov, breakfast isn’t just a meal, it’s a whole vibe. They dish up a HUGE tray of local cheeses, briny olives, cloud-like clotted cream (kaymak) with golden honey, fresh-out-of-the-oven bread, and endless rounds of strong Turkish tea—all set against those out-of-this-world peaks. It’s the ultimate energy boost for a day full of trekking (or just more chilling 😅). 📍Why Dağlara Bungalov is a Must-Book Location: Dropped perfectly in the Yıldız neighborhood of Çamlıhemşin, Rize (Google Maps it: “Dağlara Bungalov, Yıldız Mah., Çamlıhemşin/Rize, Turkey”). You get that proper high-altitude, secluded vibe but you’re still close to epic sights like the Timisvat historic stone bridge. Vibe Check: Modern luxury fused with rustic mountain lodge energy—think Insta-worthy interiors + private jacuzzi in the clouds! Hosts: You’re welcomed like family here. The staff honestly make the whole stay feel so wholesome and homey. ✨ Pro Traveler Tip: These bungalows are always in hot demand, especially during those summer sunset and autumn cloud sea seasons. If you’re mapping out Trabzon or Rize, book your “sleeping in the clouds” moment ASAP! Ready for your ultimate Black Sea adventure? Start your search on trip.com and let Dağlara Bungalov work its magic—this view is pure bucket list! #trabzon #turkey #travel #couplestrip

#slowtraveling Ayder Plateau (1,350 m) in the Kaçkar Mountains is the gateway to Black Sea yayla culture. From Rize, dolmuş to Çamlıhemşin (₺120, card at the Rize otogar), then shared 4x4 to Ayder (₺80, cash only). The cloud forest road from Çamlıhemşin to Ayder is 19 km of switchbacks where moss eats the stone walls, fog rolls in by noon, and Laz tea houses steam on the verge. I stayed at a yayla pension (₺900/night, cash, breakfast included). Hiked the Bulut Waterfall spur (2 km, free) at 8 am—moss on the rhododendron trunks, 30 waterfalls in May snowmelt. Mistake: I trusted the weather app—sun at 7, whiteout at 10. Pack a shell. A pension owner lent me his Laz baglama and played a tuneabout the moss that “holds the mountain’s breath.” Kindness beat. Permit: none for day hikes, but the Kaçkar summit zone (3,000 m+) needs a guide + municipal registration (₺500, arranged in Ayder). Is a yayla still a pasture when the cows wear bells for tourists?

#easytravelpost Fırtına Valley runs up from Çamlıhemşin toward Ayder Plateau (1,350 m), 80 min from Rize city. Shared dolmuş Rize→Çamlıhemşin 60 TRY, then 4×4 to Ayder 150 TRY; zipline operations at Zil Kale and near Ayder charge ₺400–600 per ride in packages, sometimes bundled with rafting. I took the 08:00 dolmuş from Rize, reached Çamlıhemşin 09:10, hit the Şenyuva Bridge mossy stop first. The mossy bit is the 300 m forest lane from the road to the zipline launch: oriental spruce with moss on the Ottoman bridge stones 2 cm thick, 12°C in May, a Rize thrush, the Fırtına river grey-green below. I did one 250 m zip (₺450, 40 kph over the canopy), then back at the Şenyuva kahvehane — çay 30 TRY, a 120 TRY muhlama (cornmeal+cheese), sat where the moss on the café's river-stone wall dripped, Zil Kale 200 m upstream in cloud. Ayder itself is touristy; the valley below is the mossy quiet. Mistake: I drove a rental sedan up to Ayder in March — chain law, turned back at Çamlıhemşin; take the dolmuş 4×4 in winter/spring. Another: zipline tills are cash-only TRY, no card; carry 1,000 TRY small bills. Would you dolmuş 60 TRY + zip ₺450 for Fırtına's mossy spruce-launch glide + 30 TRY çay at Şenyuva, or skip the zip and hike the valley to Zil Kale instead?

#easytravelpost Ayder is a yayla (summer plateau) at 1,350 m in Rize province, Black Sea coast, 3 hrs from Trabzon airport. I took a dolmuş from Çamlıhemşin to Ayder (40 TRY, 45 min) up the Fırtına valley — moss on the stone bridges, hazelnut terraces either side, cloud sitting in the rhododendron. The plateau itself has a village entry fee (~20 TRY/car, pedestrians free), hot springs, and a dozen tea gardens. The mossy bit is the Çat valley side road: a 2 km walk past the last pension, where the Rize tea bushes grow wild under spruce, moss on the irrigation stones, 16°C at 09:00, a Laz shepherd with a flock. I stopped at a family tea garden (no name, just a wooden platform): çay 15 TRY, muhlama (cornmeal cheese fondue) 120 TRY, sat on a moss-log bench looking at the Kaçkar range. The plateau's famous Ottoman-style houses are the backdrop; the moss is in the unpaved upper meadow. Mistake: I came August — warm, but the morning cloud burns off by 10:00 and the moss dries; June or Sept for green-wet. Another: Trabzon ATMs are fine with foreign cards, but Ayder's pensions often want cash TRY; carry 500 TRY small bills. Would you dolmuş to Ayder for the 15 TRY çay in a Çat-valley mossy tea garden with Kaçkar views, or drive the Fırtına valley yourself and stop at every stone bridge?

#easytravelpost The Kaçkar range on the Black Sea coast is Turkey's wettest alpine system; Ayder Plateau (1,350 m) is the trailhead for climbs to Samistal and the high lakes. I took an Istanbul–Trabzon flight (1,200 TRY), dolmuş to Rize, then Ayder dolmuş (120 TRY, 2 hrs, last one 17:00 from Rize otogar). Ayder entry is free, but the plateau parking is 50 TRY. From Ayder I walked the old mule road toward Yukarı Kavrun at 07:50. The first 3 km is meadow and hazelnut terraces, then the cloud forest: beech and fir dripping, moss on the trunks 2 cm thick, 13°C, fog at 09:00. By 10:30 at 1,900 m the moss is on the ground and the trail is a green tunnel; I heard a Caucasian grouse and saw fresh bear scat on a log. The plateau's hot spring (Ayder kaplıca, 200 TRY entry) steams below — I soaked at 16:00 after the walk, the moss on the changing-room roof smelling of sulphur and fern. Mistake: I wore a windbreaker and no midlayer — the cloud forest drops to 8°C by noon if fog stays; pack a fleece even in July. Another: the Ayder dolmuş fills by 15:00 in summer; I missed the return and paid 400 TRY for a taxi to Çamlıhemşin. Would you walk Ayder's mossy mule road to 1,900 m and soak in the 200 TRY sulphur spring after, or drive the plateau loop and skip the wet climb?

#bucketlistdestinations The Kaçkar Mountains are the wettest part of Turkey, and the Yayla (high pasture) plateaus are a mossy paradise. I hiked from Ayder Yayla to Gito Yayla (12km, 4-5 hours). The trail is a constant climb through cloud forests where every rock, fence post, and roof shingle of the wooden yaylahuts is covered in a thick, emerald moss. A shared taxi (dolmuş) from Rize to Ayder costs 50 TL. I paid 200 TL for a home-cooked meal (eggs, honey, bread) at a yaylahut. My mistake was not bringing a waterproof jacket—the "Anzer rain" comes in sudden, misty bursts that soak the moss and everything in it. A local yaylacı(summer highlander) invited me into his hut to dry off. He explained that the moss is a sign of clean air and water, essential for the famous Anzer honey. He offered me a spoonful of honey (worth 100 TL a jar) and said, "The moss feeds the bees, the bees feed us." Should these fragile high pastures be protected from mass tourism, or does tourism provide the only economic alternative to abandoning them?

#summerbeachnights The Kaçkars are the Black Sea's roof—3,937 m Kackar summit, northern slopes dripping cloud forest to 2,000 m. I flew to Rize, dolmuș to Çamlıhemșin (40 TRY), then a 4x4 share to Olgunlar Yayla (600 TRY split 4 ways, cash only, no card in the village). Olgunlar at 1,800 m is a cluster of timber yayla houses; the trail to Dilberdüzü base camp (2,850 m) starts behind the mosque, first 3 km through mossy spruce—branches hung with old man's beard, floor squelching, fog so low you hear cows before you see them. I did Olgunlar→Modut Yayla→Dilberdüzü in 2 days, slept at Dilberdüzü in a tent (40 TRY camp fee, no cabin). Denizgölü lake at 3,200 m is the last water before the summit push. Mules carry loads from Olgunlar (200 TRY/day, arrange via the guesthouse). Card works in Rize, nowhere past Çamlıhemșin. I wore trail runners—wrong, the moss hid roots and I rolled an ankle on day 1. Take mid boots, gaiters, 3 L capacity. July–Sept is the window; June snow lingers on the north face. The yayla guesthouse dinner was buttery muhlama and honeycomb, 150 TRY, cash. My error: I didn't pre-book the 4x4 from Çamlıhemșin—waited 3 h for a share. If a forest is so wet the moss grows sideways on the trunks, is it still a forest or a waterfall that forgot to fall?

#easytravelpost Anzer (Ballıkayalar) is the high yayla above Çamlıhemşin at ~2,300 m, famous for the world’s priciest honey and a cliff meadow where the Fırtına headwaters braid. I drove Rize→Çamlıhemşin→Ayder (80–120 TL dolmuş from the valley), then shared a 4WD to Anzer (700 TL/car split, 1 hr on a washboard climb past the bee cooperatives). The Ballıkayalar cliff section is 20 min walk from the Anzer village lane—mossy limestone, a 40 m rock face, wild orchids in June, and the co-op stalls selling 1 kg Anzer honey for 3,000–5,000 TL (cash only, ask for the sealed jar with cooperative stamp). I ate yayla cheese and corn bread at a wooden café (200 TL), then walked the meadow rim for the Kaçkar view. Rain comes by 14:00 most days—cloud forest logic. No permit, no fee beyond the 4WD. Mistake: I wore trail runners on the Ballıkayalar moss and slipped to a knee—grippy soles. Another: I bought “Anzer” honey from a roadside stall in Ayder for 1,500 TL/kg and it was blended; buy only at the Anzer cooperative office. Would you sleep in Anzer for the 5 a.m. bee hum, or day-trip from Ayder and keep the thermal baths?

#easytravelpost I based in Çamlıhemşin and took the morning dolmuş up to Ayder (around 80–120 TL from Rize/Pazar side, 2 hrs from Trabzon). The vehicle gate fee into the plateau is 250 TL per car in 2026—on foot or dolmuş you just pay nothing at the gate, but plan lodging cash. Ayder sits at 1,350 m, ringed by rhododendron and beech cloud forest that drips even in August. I checked into a wooden chalet (1,400 TL/night with breakfast for a double, cheaper in May), soaked in the kaplıca (thermal session 120 TL), then walked the Fırtına stream path at 6:30 p.m. after the tour buses left. That evening window is the real Ayder: mist rolls off the Kaçkar face, cows clank bells through the meadow, and the Palovit waterfall road is empty. I pushed 25 min up the Palovit trail (free side path, not the paid cascade viewpoint) and got the spray without the crowd. Next morning I shared a 4WD to Yukarı Kavrun (600 TL/car split 4 ways) as a launch toward the high lakes—but even without that, Ayder→Gito→Pokut ridge walk is a full day. Mistake: I arrived at 11 a.m. once and fought for parking and a table; after 18:00 the plateau resets. Another: I wore trail runners in the cloud forest and the boardwalk algae was slick—grippy soles. Cards work at big chalets, but the muhlama stall wants TL cash. Would you stay overnight for the 18:00 silence, or day-trip from Trabzon and miss the mist?

There is a quiet magic in standing at the edge of a tea plantation early in the morning, watching the mist lift off endless rows of manicured green bushes. Though separated by thousands of miles, different languages, and contrasting traditions, the tea hills of Hangzhou, China and Rize, Turkey share a single, undeniable soul: a deep, rhythmic devotion to the leaf that shapes every aspect of daily life. To walk these two distinct landscapes is to experience the full spectrum of global tea culture—from the soft, pan-fired subtlety of China’s most celebrated green tea to the rich, crimson warmth of Turkey’s Black Sea coast. 🍃 Hangzhou, China: The Delicate Craft of Longjing Tucked away in the misty valleys behind West Lake lies Longjing (Dragon Well) Village and the rolling hills of Meijiawu. Here, tea farming feels less like agriculture and more like a quiet, centuries-old meditation. The Terraces of Longjing: The hillsides rise in smooth, gentle tiers, shaded by towering bamboo groves. In the damp morning air, local harvesters move through the rows with woven bamboo baskets slung over their shoulders, deftly plucking only the tenderest top "two leaves and a bud." The Scent of the Wok: Walking through the village alleys, the air carries a distinct toasted, chestnut-like aroma. Inside wooden open-air workshops, artisans perform the famous hand-roasting process. They press and smooth the fresh leaves directly against the inner walls of bare iron woks heated over low fire, flattening them into polished, sword-shaped blades. The Steep: Sitting in a quiet courtyard, fresh Longjing is served simply in a tall, clear glass tumbler—no teapots, no strainers. As hot water hits the dry leaves, they unfurl, dance, and sink vertically to the bottom, yielding a pale, jade-green infusion that tastes crisp, sweet, and lightly nutty. 🍂 Two Continents, Two Rituals Where Hangzhou treats tea as a quiet, contemplative art of subtle flavors and clear spring water, Rize treats it as the warm, beating heart of social connection—steaming, bold, and poured continuously from dawn until long after dusk. ☕ Rize, Turkey: The Crimson Coast of the Black Sea Far to the west, where the sharp green peaks of the Kaçkar Mountains plunge directly toward the Black Sea, lies Rize—the undisputed tea capital of Turkey. Here, the landscape is dramatic, steep, and completely blanketed in deep green terraces. The Shears on the Mountain: Unlike the gentle hand-plucking of Hangzhou, harvesting in Rize is a high-energy family affair. Farmers stand on near-vertical slopes, wielding specialized tea shears fitted with collection bags, clipping dense hedges of tea leaves with impressive speed while the sea breeze rolls off the coast. The Steam of the Çaydanlık: In every tea garden overlooking the valleys, the sound of bubbling water is constant. Rize’s tea is processed into a rich, dark black tea and brewed using a traditional çaydanlık—a two-tiered stacked kettle. The top pot brews a concentrated, dark mahogany liquor, while the bottom pot boils pure mountain water. The Crimson Pour: Served in classic tulip-shaped glasses (ince belli), the tea is custom-diluted to a glowing, translucent ruby-red (tavşan kanı or "rabbit's blood"). Held by the narrow rim so as not to burn your fingers, the first sip is hot, bold, and perfectly balanced by a tiny cube of beet sugar dissolving on the tongue #travel #teatime #tea #turkishtea #turkey #china

If you think you already know Türkiye because you have seen Istanbul, Cappadocia and the Mediterranean coast, there is another side of the country that feels completely different. Welcome to the Turkish Black Sea. 🌧️🌲 This is a region of dramatic green mountains, misty plateaus, dense forests, tea plantations, waterfalls, traditional villages and small coastal towns. The landscape changes constantly as you travel east, making it one of the most rewarding regions in Türkiye for a road trip. And honestly, this is not a journey I would recommend rushing. The best part of the Black Sea is often the road between the destinations. ⸻ 🗺️ My Suggested Black Sea Road Trip For a longer trip, I would plan the route approximately like this: Istanbul → Amasra → Sinop → Samsun → Ordu → Giresun → Trabzon → Uzungöl → Rize → Ayder → Artvin You can shorten the route depending on how much time you have, but if you have around 10–14 days, this itinerary gives you a wonderful mix of coast, mountains, culture and nature. ⸻ 🌊 1. Amasra — Where the Mountains Meet the Sea Start your Black Sea adventure in Amasra. This small coastal town is surrounded by rocky shores, green hills and beautiful sea views. Instead of treating it as a quick photo stop, spend some time walking through its historic streets, exploring the waterfront and enjoying a traditional Black Sea meal. The atmosphere here is much slower than in Türkiye’s major cities. It’s the kind of place where you can sit beside the sea with a cup of Turkish tea and simply watch the boats come and go. My tip: Stay overnight if you can. Amasra feels particularly peaceful after the day-trippers leave. ⸻ 🌲 2. Sinop — A Quiet Coastal Escape Continue east toward Sinop, one of the most peaceful stops along the route. Sinop combines a beautiful coastline with forests, historical sites and a relaxed harbor atmosphere. Hamsilos Bay and the surrounding natural areas are especially worth exploring. If you enjoy photography, this is a great place to slow down and capture the contrast between the dark green forests and deep blue Black Sea. And don’t leave without trying some fresh local seafood. ⸻ 🌿 3. Ordu — Green Hills Above the Sea As you continue toward the eastern Black Sea, the scenery becomes increasingly green. In Ordu, head up to Boztepe for a panoramic view of the city and coastline. This is one of those places where you really understand the geography of the Black Sea: mountains rising directly behind the city while the sea stretches endlessly in front of you. Spend some time exploring the city, but also leave room for the surrounding countryside. ⸻ 🍃 4. Giresun — Slow Down & Enjoy the Landscape Giresun is another great place to experience the quieter side of the region. The surrounding landscape is dominated by green hills, forests and traditional agricultural areas. The region is also famous for hazelnuts, while the broader Black Sea cuisine is known for fish, vegetables, tea, corn-based dishes and local dairy products. This is the kind of destination where I wouldn’t create a strict schedule. Find a local restaurant, order something regional and let the day unfold naturally. ⸻ 🏔️ 5. Trabzon — History Among the Mountains Then comes Trabzon, one of the most important stops in eastern Black Sea Türkiye. The city has a fascinating combination of history, culture and dramatic natural scenery. But the place I would prioritize is Sümela Monastery. Built dramatically into a steep mountainside, the monastery is surrounded by dense forest and feels almost hidden inside the landscape. The combination of architecture, history and mountains makes it one of the most memorable stops on this route. My tip: Don’t visit Trabzon only as a base for Uzungöl. Give the city itself some time too. ⸻ 💚 6. Uzungöl — The Iconic Black Sea Landscape From Trabzon, continue toward Uzungöl. A lake surrounded by steep green mountains, wooden buildings and misty landscapes — this is probably the image many travelers have in mind when they imagine the Turkish Black Sea. But there’s more to the area than taking a photo beside the lake. Walk around the surrounding area, explore the mountain roads and, if the weather is good, spend some time simply enjoying the scenery. And don’t worry if you wake up to clouds or mist. In the Black Sea, bad weather can actually make the scenery better. 🌫️ ⸻ 🍵 7. Rize — Welcome to Tea Country One of my favorite parts of the journey would be Rize. This is where the landscape becomes almost unbelievably green. Tea plantations cover the hillsides, and tea culture is an important part of everyday life in the region. Rize, along with Trabzon and Artvin, is one of Türkiye’s major tea-producing areas. Visit a tea garden, sit down for a glass of freshly brewed Turkish tea and look across the green hills. If you enjoy photography, this is a destination where you should definitely bring a wide-angle lens. My tip: Don’t just photograph the tea fields. Walk through them and look for the small roads, villages and mountain views around them. ⸻ 🏡 8. Ayder & Çamlıhemşin — Into the Mountains From Rize, head toward Çamlıhemşin and Ayder. This is where the trip becomes much more about nature and mountain life. Think: 🌲 Dense forests 🏔️ High plateaus 💦 Waterfalls 🌫️ Misty valleys 🏡 Traditional wooden houses 🌿 Mountain trails The area around Çamlıhemşin also offers opportunities for hiking, rafting and exploring highland villages. Fırtına Creek, for example, is known for rafting, while nearby highlands such as Pokut and Huser offer spectacular mountain scenery. If you have enough time, don’t just stay in Ayder. Go higher. The real magic of the eastern Black Sea often begins when you leave the main tourist roads behind. ⸻ 🏞️ 9. Artvin — The Wildest Part of the Journey Finish your road trip in Artvin. The landscape here becomes more dramatic again, with deep valleys, mountains, forests, lakes and canyons. Artvin is particularly appealing to travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures. Hiking, trekking, camping, rafting and exploring mountain landscapes are all part of the region’s appeal. If you want to get away from crowded tourist destinations, this is the part of the journey I would prioritize. Take your time. Stop at viewpoints. Explore small villages. And don’t be afraid to take the longer road. ⸻ 🍴 Don’t Leave Without Trying Black Sea Food A Black Sea road trip isn’t complete without trying the regional cuisine. Look for: Kuymak / Mıhlama 🧀 Hamsi dishes 🐟 Cornbread 🌽 Black Sea-style cabbage dishes 🥬 Fresh seafood Local cheeses Turkish tea 🍵 Hazelnuts The region’s cuisine is strongly connected to its landscape, with fish, tea, hazelnuts, corn, cabbage, cheese and butter appearing frequently in local food traditions. And one important rule: Don’t eat only at places designed for tourists. Try small family-run restaurants whenever possible. ⸻ 📸 What Should You Photograph? The Black Sea is perfect if you love landscape photography. My personal shot list would be: 🌿 Tea plantations in Rize 🌫️ Mist covering a mountain village 🏔️ Kaçkar mountain landscapes 💦 Waterfalls around Çamlıhemşin 🌊 Black Sea coastal towns 🏡 Traditional wooden houses 🌲 Forest roads 🕌 Village mosques surrounded by mountains 🌅 Sunset over the coast 🍵 A traditional tea glass overlooking the mountains And don’t worry about getting perfect blue skies. Clouds, rain and fog are part of the Black Sea’s personality. ⸻ 🚗 My Biggest Road-Trip Advice Don’t plan every hour. The Black Sea is one of those places where the journey itself becomes part of the destination. You might see a small village from the road and decide to stop. You might find a viewpoint that isn’t on your itinerary. You might see a waterfall and turn around. Do it. That’s exactly what a Black Sea road trip should feel like. ⸻ 🌦️ When Should You Go? The Black Sea is famous for its lush greenery partly because of its rainy climate, so don’t plan the trip expecting perfect sunshine every day. The rain is one of the reasons the region looks so dramatically green. For hiking and exploring the highlands, warmer months are generally more comfortable. But if you want the classic misty, atmospheric Black Sea feeling, a little rain isn’t necessarily a bad thing. In fact, I’d say: Bring a rain jacket, waterproof shoes and a camera — and embrace the weather. ☔📸 ⸻ ❤️ Why I Would Choose the Black Sea Türkiye has beaches. Türkiye has ancient ruins. Türkiye has huge cities. Türkiye has Cappadocia. But the Black Sea shows you something completely different. It shows you green Türkiye. The Türkiye of mountain villages, tea gardens, wooden houses, family kitchens, winding roads, waterfalls and misty plateaus. And that’s why I think this journey deserves a place on any Türkiye itinerary. Don’t just visit Türkiye. Drive through it. Take the long road. Stop somewhere unexpected. Drink tea with a mountain view. And let the Black Sea surprise you. 🇹🇷🌿 📌 Save this route for your next Türkiye road trip! #Turkey #Türkiye #BlackSea #BlackSeaTurkey #TurkeyTravel #TravelTurkey #ExploreTurkey #VisitTurkey #BlackSeaRoadTrip #Rize #Trabzon #Artvin #Cappadocia #TravelInspiration #Tripcom

If there is one thing the Black Sea coast of Turkey teaches you, it’s that the best views are never given to you on flat ground—you have to earn them, or in the case of Ordu, let a cable car carry you straight into the clouds. While travelers often rush through Ordu on their way to Trabzon or Rize, those in the know stop right here at the waterfront. The recipe for an unforgettable afternoon in Ordu is deceptively simple: board a glass cabin by the sea, soar 500 meters up a near-vertical emerald slope, and reward yourself at the summit with a steaming, buttery, impossibly loaded Kamber potato while the entire coastline glows below you. 🚡 The Ascent: Soaring Above Hazelnut Groves The journey begins at the seaside park in central Ordu. You step into the sleek cabin of the Ordu Teleferik, the doors slide shut, and within seconds, the noise of the coastal highway drops away into absolute silence. The Transition: In just seven minutes, you rise from sea level to 530 meters above the bay. As the cable line climbs steeply over the terracotta roofs of the old city quarters, urban brick gives way to dense, lush green hazelnut orchards—Ordu's famous global export. The Perspective: Looking down through the glass floor and windows, the Black Sea transforms from a flat blue horizon into a grand curved bay. The contrast between the dark turquoise water and the deep, jungle-like green of the Pontic hills is breathtaking. 🥔 The Star of the Summit: The Boztepe Kamber Potato You don't climb Boztepe just for the fresh air or the sunset—you come hungry. Among locals, Boztepe is synonymous with one specific culinary obsession: the Kamber patates (a grand, mountain-style Black Sea variation of the Turkish kumpir). When you order one at the summit cafes, watching it being constructed is half the magic: The Foundation: A massive, thick-skinned potato is pulled straight from the roasting oven, split wide open, and furiously whipped right inside its skin with generous slabs of salty local butter and melted kaşar cheese until the potato interior becomes an elastic, velvety mash. The Overload: Then comes the tower of toppings—pickled red cabbage, sliced black and green olives, sweet corn, spicy kisir (bulgur salad), Russian salad, diced sausages, and jalapeños, all drizzled with garlic yogurt and hot pepper sauce. The Experience: Holding a piping-hot, heavy potato in your hands while the crisp mountain air nips at your face is pure comfort food perfection. The heat radiating off the dish against the cool Black Sea breeze makes every single bite hit differently. 🌅 Golden Hour to City Lights: Timing Your Trip To get the absolute most out of Boztepe, timing is everything. Go Up Around 5:30 PM: Hop on the cable car in the late afternoon. This gives you plenty of daylight to explore the hilltop pine trails, snap clear photos of the coastal curve, and claim a outdoor terrace table with an unobstructed view. The Sunset Ritual: Grab a traditional tulip glass of dark Black Sea tea (çay) after finishing your Kamber potato. Watch the sun dip behind the mountains, painting the sea in shades of burnt orange, pink, and deep indigo. The Night View: Stay until twilight. As darkness settles, Ordu transforms into a twinkling constellation of golden streetlights tracing the shoreline far below, while the cable cars glide up and down like glowing embers along the wire line. 💡 Traveler Hacks for Ordu Teleferik & Boztepe Buy a Round-Trip Ticket: The queue at the bottom can get long on summer weekends, but buying a two-way digital ticket at the base saves you from waiting in line at the summit ticket booth later. Sit on the Sea-Facing Side: When boarding the cable cabin going up, snag the bench facing back toward the water for the best video shots as the city drops away beneath you. Dress in Layers: Even if it feels warm and humid down at the beach, the summit of Boztepe catches strong offshore winds. A light jacket or sweater is a must for evening dining outside. #travel2026 #travel #ordu #turkey

We came from Rize for the fourth international choirs festival, and Taksim Urban Hotel was chosen for us. The breakfast was amazing, and the staff's service was excellent. Special thanks to Mr. Okan and Mr. Serkan for their efforts. The housekeeping staff was also fantastic—thanks to them all. It's an outstanding establishment. I highly recommend staying here if you're in Taksim. A big thank you for everything, and hope to see you again soon! ❤️ Fadime Polat Çakır

#arrivalguide I flew to Rize-Artvin, bus to Ardeşen, dolmuş to Ayder Plateau (~2 h from Rize, ~120 TRY in 2025). Ayder is touristy—thermal hotel prices spike July–Aug, guesthouses ~800 TRY/night, cards accepted but village stalls want cash Lira. The Samistal Lakes route starts behind the plateau, follows the Bulut dairy trail southeast into alpine meadow, then up to the twin tarns below Samistal Tepe. I did it as a long day (7–8 h RT, ~1,100 m gain) but it’s better as an overnighter with a tent at the lower meadow. No permit needed for Kaçkar NP; no markings above 2,800 m, so GPS track essential—I used a downloaded GPX, signal died at the treeline. The lower meadow in July was full of yayla huts selling butter and honey (cash). Above, it’s scree and snowpatches even in August; I crossed a leftover cornice on the east lip and needed poles. Mistakes: not bringing enough L (only 2, melted snow saved me), wearing low-cut shoes (ankles rolled on the descent), and assuming dolmuş run late—last Ayder bound is ~6 p.m., miss it and you hitch or walk 12 km down to Çamlıhemşin. Best window mid-July–mid-Sept; before that the lakes are frozen, after that the meadow is brown. A local guide (~1,500 TRY/day) is smart if you push to Samistal Tepe proper (3,300 m+). Carry a wind layer—the plateau breeze drops 10 °C from valley to pass.

If there is a place on earth where gravity feels secondary to the sheer force of nature, it is Rize. Tucked into the steep northeast corner of Turkey’s Black Sea region, Rize isn’t merely visited—it is absorbed through the damp mountain air, the thunderous roar of glacial rivers, and the quiet awe of standing on an alpine ridge looking down on a sea of swirling white clouds. To travel through Rize’s deep Çamlıhemşin valleys is to move between two distinct worlds: the roaring water paths carved through ancient green forests down below, and the silent, cloud-draped mountain plateaus (yaylalar) perched high above the rest of the world. 🌊 Part I: The Water Paths & Stone Sentinels of Fırtına Valley The journey into Rize’s heart follows the relentless rhythm of water. Turning inland from the coast, the road grips the edges of Fırtına Deresi (Storm River), a surging turquoise torrent fed by melting alpine snowpack high up in the Kaçkar Mountains. The Ottoman Stone Arches Spanning this wild river are centuries-old Ottoman stone arch bridges—architectural marvels built without mortar, anchored directly into granite cliffs. Walking across the slick, cobble-paved curve of Çamlıhemşin Bridges like Timmisvat or Şenyuva, you feel the mist rising from the rapids below. The dark green boxwood trees and dripping moss lining the canyon walls make the entire valley feel entirely untouched by time. Zilkale: The Fortress in the Canopy Deeper up the canyon, perched precariously on a razor-thin rock ledge 750 meters above the valley floor, stands Zilkale (Bell Castle). Looking out from its stone battlements into the gaping, forest-filled abyss, the castle feels like something conjured from a dark fairytale. Below, the river winds like a silver ribbon; above, thick mountain fog rolls silently down the peaks, swallowing the forest tree by tree. ☁️ Part II: Kingdom Above the Clouds: Pokut & Huser Yaylası If the valleys belong to the water, the heights belong to the sky. Ascending from the valley floor to Rize’s high plateaus is a transformational experience. As your vehicle climbs the switchback dirt trails, you pass through dense chestnut forests, then towering fir trees, until suddenly—the trees disappear, the thick fog breaks, and you burst out into blinding sunlight. Pokut Yaylası: Wooden Chalets in the Sky Sitting at over 2,000 meters above sea level, Pokut is a timeless alpine settlement of dark timber chalets scattered across carpeted green ridges. Standing at the crest of Pokut, you look out not at neighboring mountains, but at Bulut Denizi—a literal, rolling ocean of fluffy clouds filling the valley below. The peaks of the Kaçkar range poke through the white expanse like isolated islands in a sky-high archipelago. Sunset at Huser: The Highest Swing Continuing higher to Huser Yaylası, the sunset spectacle reaches its peak. Here, as the golden afternoon light hits the cloud cover, giant wooden swings set at the cliff edge let you literally swing out over the abyss. With a hot glass of tea in hand and cold mountain wind on your face, watching the sun dip into the cloud sea turns the entire sky into shades of violet, amber, and fiery rose. 🧀 Part III: Culinary Comfort in the Mountain Cold Rize’s damp climate and cool mountain air set the perfect stage for one of the most satisfying comfort foods on the planet: Muhlama (also known as Mıhlama or Kuymak). After hours of walking through misty trails, sitting inside a cozy, pine-scented wooden chalet while a copper pan of muhlama bubbles on the table is unforgettable: The Texture: Coarsely ground yellow cornmeal cooked with ungodly amounts of rich, aromatic local butter until golden oil pools around the edges. The Stretch: Melted, stringy kolot cheese is folded in until the dish becomes an elastic, gooey mass that stretches over a meter high when dipped into with crusty, freshly baked corn bread. The Tea Pairing: Followed immediately by piping-hot, crimson-red Rize tea—harvested from the very terraced hillsides you passed on your way up. 💡 Essential Traveler Hacks for Visiting Rize 4WD is Non-Negotiable: The roads up to Pokut, Sal, and Huser are rugged, unpaved mountain tracks. Rent a proper 4x4 vehicle or hire a local mountain driver in Çamlıhemşin—do not attempt these climbs in a standard sedan! Pack for Four Seasons in One Day: The weather in the Kaçkar region changes within minutes. A warm sunny morning at sea level can turn into a 10°C chilly downpour at higher elevations. Always bring waterproof shells and thermal layers. Catch the Cloud Sea Timing: The "Sea of Clouds" (Bulut Denizi) is most dramatic in the late afternoon (between 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM) as valley moisture evaporates and cools against the alpine summits. #thingstodo #travelexperience #travel #travel2026

Water has a way of telling a city’s secrets long before you step into its museums or walk its old streets. A river is a living thread—it carries the chill of distant mountains, reflects the changing light of dusk, and shapes the daily pace of the communities built along its banks. Looking back across my journeys, it is the waters that anchor my fondest memories: from humid tropical mangrove channels in Malaysia to the sweeping, dramatic riversides of Europe and Turkey. 🌴 The Mangrove Rivers of Langkawi: Silent Green Corridors In Langkawi, the water doesn't rush; it breathes. Navigating the twisting mangrove rivers of Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, the ocean tide pushes deep into the limestone canyons, turning the riverways into quiet, emerald mirror tracks. The Atmosphere: Towering limestone cliffs wrap around the narrow waterways, draped in dense tropical jungle. The air is thick, humid, and rich with the earthy scent of wet soil and salt water. The Rhythm: Gliding smoothly through the roots of ancient mangrove trees, the only sounds breaking the silence are the low hum of the boat engine, the distant call of eagles circling the canopy, and the gentle splash of water against the hull. It feels primal and untamed, a world where the forest and the sea meet in a seamless, tranquil maze. ⛰️ The Coastline and Mountain Streams of Ordu & Rize: Black Sea Cascades Heading up to Turkey’s Black Sea region, water takes on an entirely different energy. It becomes wild, cool, and deeply invigorating, rushing down steep alpine valleys before meeting the dark, vast expanse of the sea. Ordu: Where Green Mountains Touch the Sea In Ordu, the rivers carve their way down through forested hillsides straight into the Black Sea coast. Walking along the promenade or driving inland beside rushing mountain streams, the cool coastal breeze carries the crisp scent of hazelnut groves and damp mountain earth. The water here feels like the lifeblood of the green coast, refreshing and relentless. Rize: Rushing Alpine Streams of the Tea Slopes Further east in Rize, the water turns fast and fierce. High up in the emerald valleys, rushing alpine rivers cut through steep tea plantations, churned into white foam over mossy river boulders. The Sounds: The thunderous roar of mountain streams echoing through the fog-draped valleys. The Sights: Stone Ottoman arch bridges spanning high above the torrential rivers, connecting tea pickers on one side of the mountain to villages on the other. Standing on an ancient stone bridge in Rize, with misty rain falling and icy mountain waters crashing beneath you, you feel the raw, unfiltered spirit of the Black Sea. 🏛️ The Arno of Florence & Pisa: Tuscan Sunsets & Reflected Stone In Tuscany, the Arno River is pure poetry. It doesn't just flow through Florence and Pisa; it holds their history like a golden mirror. Florence: The Mirror to the Sunset There is no sunset quite like the one over the Arno in Florence. As afternoon fades into evening, the sky transforms into a glowing canvas of soft peach, violet, and fiery amber. The View: Standing on the Santa Trinita bridge, looking toward the famous Ponte Vecchio, the water becomes so still that it acts like a perfect mirror. The Light: The stone arches of the bridge, the historic yellow-plaster buildings, and the evening clouds are reflected on the river’s calm surface in liquid gold. People line the stone embankments (lungarni) with gelato or a cold drink, watching the golden hour turn into twilight as the city lights begin to flicker across the water. Pisa: The Sweeping Arc of History Following the Arno down to Pisa, the river widens into a majestic, sweeping curve (Lungarno Pisano). Framed by elegant palazzos painted in pastel tones, the riverbanks here are quieter, offering a reflective, grand view of a city shaped by its historic maritime power. 🍊 The Guadalquivir of Seville: Saffron, Citrus, and Sun In Southern Spain, the Guadalquivir River is the pulsing vein of Andalusian warmth. Passing beside the 13th-century Torre del Oro, the river carries a distinct Mediterranean charm framed by the scent of bitter orange trees and blooming jasmine. Daytime Promenade: Walking along the wide, sun-baked riverbanks, the April heat radiates off the pavement while a gentle breeze comes off the water. Sunset at Chapina: Heading north toward the Jardines de Chapina, locals gather on the grassy banks to watch the sun dip behind Triana. The river turns purple and gold, reflecting the silhouettes of historic bridges while distant Spanish guitar chords drift through the warm evening air. 🏰 The Danube of Vienna: Imperial Elegance & River Breeze In Vienna, the Danube (Donau) represents European grandeur at its finest. Wide, regal, and vast, the river and its canals flow effortlessly alongside majestic palaces and leafy green parks. The Atmosphere: Whether taking a quiet walk along the Danube Canal (Donaukanal) surrounded by vibrant urban art or strolling beside the main riverbanks, the vibe is refined, relaxed, and timeless. The Experience: Sitting at a riverside café with a classic Viennese coffee or strolling under the shade of ancient trees as classic riverboats glide past silently under clear blue skies. #TravelJournal #RiverJourneys #Langkawi #Ordu #Rize #Florence #Pisa #Seville #Vienna #ArnoRiver #Guadalquivir #Danube #TravelMoments #Wanderlust

Uzungöl (meaning "Long Lake") is one of those places that almost every traveler to northeastern Turkey has on their bucket list. Tucked deep into a valley in the Çaykara district of Trabzon, this landslide-dammed lake looks like something straight out of a Swiss Alpine postcard—complete with dense, dark green pine forests cascading down steep mountain walls, a shimmering body of water, and the elegant, white-minaret mosque standing watch at the lake’s edge. Because of its massive popularity, Uzungöl has a reputation for being busy, bustling, and highly commercialized during the peak afternoon hours. But if you know how to step away from the souvenir shops and time your day right, the true, quiet magic of this valley will reveal itself to you. Here is how we found absolute tranquility at the edge of Turkey's most famous lake. 🌅 The Sunrise Secret: Having the Valley to Ourselves If you only visit Uzungöl as a day trip from Trabzon city, you miss its finest hour. We made sure to wake up just after dawn, stepping out of our wooden hotel room while the entire valley was still asleep. At 6:30 AM, Uzungöl is a completely different world: The Mirror Water: The lake was dead calm, acting as a perfect, glassy mirror reflecting the dark green pine trees and the morning sky. The Rising Mist: A thin layer of white fog was lazily lifting off the water’s surface, dancing around the base of the mosque's minarets. The Sounds of Nature: The only noises were the rushing water of the mountain streams feeding the lake and the distant, echoing calls of wild birds in the forest. Walking along the flat, paved path circling the lake at this hour was pure serenity. My wife and I slowly walked hand-in-hand, while our young daughter squealed with delight pointing at the mother ducks leading their ducklings through the glassy, cold water. 🚠 Climbing Higher: The Postcard View from the Observation Deck After our morning walk, we hopped in the car and drove up the steep, winding road on the eastern side of the valley to reach the Seyir Terası (Observation Deck). Looking down from this high wooden platform, the scale of Uzungöl truly hits you. The lake sits cradled perfectly between two massive, towering mountain walls. The wooden chalets and hotels look like tiny toy houses clustered around the water, and the iconic mosque sits elegantly at the center. 💡 Pro-Tip: If you have a high-clearance vehicle and a thirst for adventure, don't stop at the observation deck. Keep driving up the dirt mountain track toward Karester Yaylası. The road is steep and gravelly, but it takes you high above the timberline to raw, windswept alpine pastures where clouds float right at your feet, offering a wild, completely non-touristy view of the entire valley below. 🍳 The Fuel: A True Karadeniz Breakfast You cannot visit the Black Sea highlands without treating yourself to a slow, heavy mountain breakfast. We found a rustic, wood-built restaurant perched slightly up on the hillside, away from the lakeside road, offering a panoramic view of the water. We ordered a traditional spread, featuring: Mıhlama (or Kuymak): The legendary Black Sea dish made of cornmeal, local butter, and massive amounts of stringy cheese, served bubbling hot in a traditional copper pan. Dipping hot, crusty sourdough bread into it is an absolute rite of passage. Highland Clotted Cream (Kaymak) & Pine Honey: Thick, rich cream sourced from cows grazing on the high pastures, drizzled with dark, fragrant mountain honey. Fresh Trout (Alabalık): For a late lunch or early dinner, the region is famous for its fresh, locally farmed river trout, lightly floured and pan-fried in butter until the skin is perfectly crispy. 🌫️ The Mist Rolls In: Cozying Up with Çay As mid-afternoon approached, the sunny blue skies suddenly vanished. In true Black Sea fashion, a massive wave of cool, damp mountain mist rolled over the southern ridges, rapidly dropping the temperature. Instead of heading inside, we embraced the change in weather. We found a small, cozy wooden cafe right at the water’s edge. The staff brought out heavy, soft fleece blankets for us to wrap around our shoulders. Sitting outside in the chilly air, watching the thick white fog completely swallow the green mountainsides and creep across the dark water, was incredibly cozy. We held our hot, tulip-shaped glasses of Rize çay like little hand warmers, listening to the rhythmic clink-clink of our tiny metal spoons stirring in the sugar. It was one of those slow, peaceful moments where you are forced to stop, unplug, and just watch the clouds move. 💡 Tips for Your Uzungöl Trip Stay Overnight: To experience the calm sunrise and the peaceful, quiet evenings after the tour buses depart (around 5:00 PM), book at least one night in a local wooden chalet or "bangalove." Dress for Every Season in One Day: Even in July, Uzungöl can fluctuate from warm and sunny to cold, windy, and rainy in the span of an hour. Always have a waterproof jacket and a warm sweater handy. Explore the Side Valleys: The main lakefront can get highly commercialized. To escape the crowds, take a walk or drive up the smaller forest roads running parallel to the mountain streams feeding into the lake. You will find hidden waterfalls, quiet picnic spots, and untouched pine forests. Uzungöl might be famous, but its beauty is entirely real. If you take your time, wake up with the sun, and let the mountain mist slow you down, it is a place that will capture a piece of your heart forever. #Uzungol #Trabzon #BlackSeaTurkey #Karadeniz #TravelTurkey #MountainEscapes #FamilyTravel #CozyVibes #TripMoments

If you travel to Turkey, you quickly realize one thing: çay (tea) is not just a drink. It is the lifeblood of the country. It is a gesture of welcome, a punctuation mark at the end of every meal, a reason to sit down with a stranger, and a warm companion on a cold, misty morning. Over my travels through Turkey, I found myself collecting memories of this simple, beautiful ritual in different corners of the country. From the chaotic streets of Istanbul to the quiet, cloud-wrapped mountain peaks of the Black Sea, here is my appreciation for the perfect cup of Turkish çay, and the exact spots where it tasted like absolute magic. 🔍 The Anatomy of the Perfect Çay Before we talk about where to drink it, we have to talk about how it’s served. You will never see Turkish çay in a standard ceramic mug. It is always served in the iconic, tulip-shaped glass (ince belli). The local secret: You hold the glass by its rim—never the body—to keep from burning your fingers. It allows you to admire the rich, deep ruby color of the tea, which locals proudly call tavşan kanı (rabbit’s blood), a sign of a perfectly brewed batch. Accompanied by two tiny sugar cubes and a miniature metal spoon that makes a distinct, rhythmic clink-clink sound as you stir, it is a sensory experience before you even take your first sip. 📍 My Favorite Çay Spots Across Turkey 1. Istanbul: The Street & Random Cafes In Istanbul, çay is the background noise of the city. My favorite way to experience it is sitting on a tiny, low wooden stool at a random street cafe in Kadıköy or Balat. You sit practically on the cobblestones, watching the world rush by. Or better yet, grabbing a glass on the public ferry crossing the Bosporus. The salty sea breeze, the crying seagulls, and a hot glass of çay in your hand—that is the quintessential Istanbul moment. 2. Antalya: Shaded Mediterranean Courtyards Down on the sunny southern coast in Antalya, çay serves a different purpose. After walking through the scorching stone streets of the historic Kaleiçi (Old Town), we found a quiet, shaded cafe tucked away under orange trees. Paired with a cold glass of water, a piping hot çay here is strangely refreshing, acting as the perfect afternoon reset button. 3. Ordu: High Above the Black Sea Moving up to the Black Sea region, the tea culture shifts into high gear. In Ordu, we took the cable car up to the top of Boztepe. Sitting at a cafe on the observation deck, looking down at the sweeping coastline of the city meeting the dark blue sea, a hot glass of çay was the ultimate reward for the climb. 4. Trabzon: Cozy Tea Gardens Trabzon is a city built on tea, where locals gather in bustling outdoor tea gardens (çay bahçesi). We found a random spot overlooking the water where old men were passionately playing backgammon (tavla) while the waiters darted between tables carrying trays loaded with dozens of steaming glasses. The atmosphere here is lively, authentic, and incredibly welcoming. 5. Uzungöl: Misty Lakeside Serenity Uzungöl feels like a Swiss alpine village dropped into Turkey. When the heavy mountain mist rolls in over the lake, the temperature drops rapidly. We huddled inside a lakeside cafe, wrapped in warm blankets, watching the fog dance across the water. Holding that warm tulip glass felt like holding a little pocket heater. 6. Rize: The Emerald Hills & The "Bangalove" If you want to go to the absolute source, you go to Rize—the capital of Turkish tea. Here, the mountainsides are carved into endless, undulating waves of emerald-green tea plantations. The Bungalow Experience: We stayed in a cozy wooden mountain cabin (or "bangalove," as the locals beautifully call them) perched high up on the slopes of the Fırtına Valley. The Morning Ritual: Waking up at sunrise, stepping out onto the wet wooden deck of the bungalow, and brewing a fresh pot of Rize tea while looking out at the clouds clinging to the pine trees below. It was pure, unadulterated peace. 💡 Tips for Your Own Çay Journey Say Yes to Hospitality: If a shopkeeper offers you a glass of çay while you are browsing, accept it! It’s a genuine sign of hospitality, not a sales trap. Sit, chat, and enjoy the moment. Ask for "Açık" or "Koyu": If you don't like your tea too strong, ask for it açık (light). If you like it robust and bold, ask for koyu (dark/strong). The Double Kettle (Çaydanlık): If you stay in a local hotel or rental, you will likely find a double-stacked metal kettle. The bottom boil water, while the top brews a highly concentrated tea leaf mixture. You pour a bit of the concentrate from the top and dilute it to your liking with the hot water from the bottom. No matter where you drink it—whether it's on a busy Istanbul sidewalk or on the deck of a mountain bungalow in Rize—Turkish çay has a way of slowing time down. It forces you to stop, take a breath, and appreciate the view. #TurkishTea #TravelTurkey #Rize #Uzungol #Istanbul #Antalya #BlackSea #TravelTips #CozyVibes #TripMoments #TeaCulture

Rize Castle is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Rize, standing on a hill above the city with wide views of the Black Sea and surrounding green mountains. The castle itself is a small but atmospheric historical site, with stone walls and remains that reflect the region’s long history. While only parts of the original fortress survive, its elevated position makes it one of the best places to understand the geography of Rize. A walk through the castle grounds is peaceful, with trees, gardens, and viewpoints overlooking the city. From the terraces, visitors can see the coastline, rooftops of Rize, and the endless green hills that define the Black Sea region. The atmosphere is especially pleasant in the late afternoon, when the light softens and the sea creates a beautiful contrast with the mountains. It is also a popular place for locals to relax and enjoy a quiet break. Rize Castle is not a large fortress like some famous castles in Turkey, but its charm comes from the combination of history, nature, and panoramic views. It is a simple yet rewarding stop when exploring the city. #travel #travel2026 #rize #turkey #castle #castleviews #cityviews

Rize is the heart of Turkey's Black Sea region, where lush tea plantations, dramatic mountains, and fast-flowing rivers create some of the country's most beautiful landscapes. It is an ideal destination for both nature lovers and cultural explorers. Begin with Rize Castle, which overlooks the city and the Black Sea. The viewpoint offers excellent panoramas of the coastline, green hills, and the urban center below. No visit to Rize is complete without exploring the famous tea plantations. Walking among the bright green terraces is one of the region's signature experiences, and many tea gardens welcome visitors to taste freshly brewed local tea. Head inland to Ayder Plateau, where mountain scenery, waterfalls, and traditional wooden houses create a peaceful escape. Nearby, Fırtına Valley is known for its rushing river, historic stone bridges, and outdoor activities, while Zilkale stands dramatically on a rocky cliff above the valley. If you have more time, visit the highland villages such as Pokut Plateau, where rolling green mountains and clouds create unforgettable views above the valleys. Rize is more than a coastal city—it is the gateway to Turkey's lush Black Sea highlands, offering a unique mix of mountain landscapes, tea culture, and unforgettable natural beauty. #trabzon #turkey #rize #tea #georgia #batumi #travel2026 #travel

You can go up to Ayfer Plateau, but we preferred Zil Castle. I recommend trying the döner kebab in Rize city center. Rice pudding is one of my favorite desserts.

We arrived in Trabzon and headed straight to the mountains. Kaçkar greeted us with silence and snow. We spent the night in a tent in an empty mountain village, where it feels like time has simply stopped. Around us, spring is awakening: streams are carving their way through the snow, the first flowers are reaching for the sun, and the air is so pure that you just want to breathe deeply. Kaçkar is absolutely incredible 🤍🏔️

If you're tired of palm trees, beaches, and hearing Russian in Antalya and Alanya, Ayder is the place for you. A cozy village nestled in the mountains of the Black Sea region. This place is shrouded in mist year-round, giving it an air of mystery. Ayder is the perfect starting point for a trek to Mount Kaçkar. If you're not a fan of trekking or hiking, you can book a tour, and a car will take you to several stunning locations. The higher you ascend above sea level, the less mist there is, and the more magical the view becomes. If you don't plan on hiking in the mountains, you can visit Ayder for a couple of days. Be sure to include trips to Rize and Trabzon in your itinerary. The most convenient option is to travel by car. However, if you're looking for a true adventure, you can travel from Trabzon to a place called Pazar, and then take a dolmuş (minibus) to Ayder.