Best Places To Visit Black Sea Coast Of Turkey

Discover Trabzon’s Treasures:  Trabzon, a city boasting over 4000 years of history, is a trove of natural and architectural gems waiting to be explored. Let's delve into some of its flagship attractions scheduled for your 2023 Turkish itinerary.

Sumela Monastery: Perched on the steep cliffs of the Altındere Valley, the Sumela Monastery, also revered as the Virgin Mary Monastery, is a breathtaking architectural masterpiece in the Maçka district of Trabzon. With construction dating back to 365-395 AD, this site unveils tales wrapped in mystique and history, attracting thousands annually.

Hagia Sophia Museum - Trabzon: Built by King Manuel between 1250-1260, Hagia Sophia in Trabzon has stood as a testament to changing times, serving as a monastery, mosque, and museum over the centuries. Each transition has left its mark, making it a fascinating site for history enthusiasts.

Vaselon Monastery: The Vaselon Monastery, nestled in the Maçka district, is a four-story structure adorned with frescoes depicting scenes of Judgment Day, Heaven, and Hell. Located 40 km south of Trabzon's center, it’s accessible and a must-visit for those eager to explore the area's religious architecture.

Uzungol: An Eco-Tourism Haven: Uzungol, or "long lake," is not just a popular tourist destination but also Trabzon’s eco-tourism center. At 1100 meters above sea level, it is surrounded by diverse flora and fauna, making it a delightful stop for nature lovers.

Accommodation at Uzungol: Uzungol offers a variety of accommodation options, from apartments and hotels to bungalows and hostels. Early booking is advisable during summer due to high demand.

Chall Cave Trabzon (Çal Mağarası): Considered one of the longest caves worldwide, Çal cave in the Duzkoy District is a must-visit. Its extensive length and captivating stalactite and stalagmite formations make it a favorite among tourists.

Rize Revealed: Nature’s Majestic Canvas on Turkey’s Black Sea Coast

Rize, a luminous gem amidst Turkey’s verdant landscapes, beckons nature enthusiasts with its myriad of unparalleled natural wonders. This city, noted for being one of Turkey's greenest, is home to the Kaçkar Mountains — Turkey’s fifth highest mountain and a crucial ecological sanctuary requiring protection. With tourism-ready plateaus like Ayder, Pokut, Huser, and Anzer drawing thousands annually, Rize has established itself as a significant hub for nature sports and exploration.

Ayder Plateau: Nature’s Grandeur on Display: Ayder Plateau is renowned for its thermal springs and breathtaking natural beauty, making it a favorite among travelers. Located 19 kilometers from Çamlıhemşin and sitting at an altitude of 1220 meters, Ayder provides a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets, acting as a starting point for those eager to scale the northern ridges of the Kackar Mountains. With its rich flora and fauna, and the must-try Ayder Honey, this plateau is a delightful escape from the mundane.

Palovit Waterfall: A Symphony of Water and Greenery: Nestled in the Kackar Mountains National Park, Palovit Waterfall is among Rize's tallest waterfalls. Set amidst lush forests, its waters cascade with vigor, presenting a sight of unparalleled beauty. The viewing point atop the rocky terrain offers a mesmerizing panorama of this natural marvel, with the water creating enticing patterns as it flows through the verdant landscape.

Zilkale: A Beacon of History: Zilkale, originally known as Zir Castle (meaning "down castle"), is a historic treasure believed to have first been erected in the 5th century as a wooden structure. Overlooking breathtaking vistas at 700 meters above sea level, this stone castle offers visitors an opportunity to step back in time while indulging in views that are nothing short of heart-stirring.

Ayder Thermal Springs: A Fountain of Wellness: Renowned for its healing properties, the thermal springs at Ayder Plateau have been a beacon of wellness for centuries. Emerging at a scalding 50 degrees from a depth of 260 meters, the mineral-rich waters are believed to offer relief from various ailments, providing visitors with both rejuvenation and a unique wellness experience.

Anzer Plateau: A Hub for Adventure and Delight: A popular destination for trekking, photography, summit climbing, camping, and mountaineering, Anzer Plateau captivates visitors with its pristine beauty. The annual Anzer Honey Plateau Festivals held in August offer a delightful experience for visitors to engage in the local culture and purchase the famed Anzer honey.

Kaçkar Mountains National Park: An Ecological Haven: Encompassing over 51,000 hectares of green space within the formidable Kaçkar Mountains, the Kaçkar Mountains National Park is a sanctuary of biodiversity. Hosting over 250,000 visitors annually, the park boasts glacial lakes, icy streams, waterfalls, and a plethora of endemic plant species, presenting a canvas that every nature lover must explore at least once.

Artvin along the Georgian border, stands as an epitome of natural beauty in the eastern realm of Turkey's Black Sea Region. With its status as a significant biosphere reserve area in Europe and Central Asia, this region's awe-inspiring diversity of flora has become the subject of global scientific attention. Beyond its vast green landscapes, Artvin offers a cascade of natural wonders and historical treasures, waiting to be explored.

Karagol Nature Park: An Eden of Tranquility: Positioned roughly 50 kilometers from Artvin’s center, the Karagol Nature Park stands as an emblem of untouched beauty. Encompassing the serene Karagöl, this park presents visitors with a mosaic of colors—lush green during spring and a picturesque amalgam of yellow and red in autumn.

Black Lake: A Gem in Borçka: Karagol in Borçka is more than just a lake—it's a canvas of nature's grandeur, birthed from a landslide near the Klaskur Plateau. A mesmerizing destination, this lake beckons visitors to partake in its serene ambiance and relish its captivating visuals.

Menchuna Waterfall: Nature’s Grand Orchestra: Located in the Arhavi district, Menchuna Waterfall is a marvel that exudes the sheer power and beauty of nature. With water cascading over black rocks, forming hypnotic foams, this waterfall entices visitors to indulge in the orchestra of splashing waters, split across two breathtaking sections.

Atabari Ski Center: A Winter Paradise: Residing at 2000 meters above sea level on Mersivan Mountain, the Atabarı Ski Center offers winter aficionados a picturesque setting to ski and bask in the beauty of snow-laden landscapes. With its world-class tracks and modern amenities, it serves as an inviting winter escape.

Tekkekale Monastery: A Tapestry of History and Culture: Often frequented by history buffs, Tekkekale Monastery stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the Baghdadi Georgian Kingdom. Known for its quartet of surrounding churches, this 10th-century marvel invites visitors to traverse through its historic chambers and appreciate intricate stone carvings.

Macahel: UNESCO’s World Biosphere Reserve: Macahel, positioned at the foot of the Karçal Mountains in Artvin's Borçka district, is affectionately termed 'paradise on earth.' Gaining recognition as Turkey's first biosphere area, it was christened as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in 2006. With its pristine waterfalls, abundant flora, and scenic hiking trails, Macahel remains a jewel in Artvin's crown.

Ordu and Giresun: Jewels of Turkey's Black Sea Coastline

Ordu and Giresun, two neighboring cities cradled by the Black Sea, offer an impressive canvas painted with verdant plateaus, hills, streams, and pristine beaches, resembling those in the Mediterranean and Aegean. Renowned as beloved vacation paradises in the Eastern Black Sea Region, these cities beckon with their harmonious meld of vibrant greens and deep blues, captivating the hearts of thousands annually.

Giresun Castle: A Vestige of the Past: Giresun Castle, a historic monument standing tall from the time of King Mithridates of Pontos’s son, Farnakes, preserves the echoes of the past. Though little remains of its ancient glory, the castle, offering panoramic views of Giresun, is a popular destination for both history aficionados and casual visitors seeking to savor a drink or meal in the nearby cafes while drinking in the scenery.

Kuzalan Nature Park: Where Green Meets Blue: Located in Giresun’s Dereli district, Kuzalan Nature Park exemplifies the awe-inspiring beauty of the Black Sea's natural landscape. The park, home to Blue Lake, is a haven of towering trees and refreshing soda water springs, with the latter contributing to the creation of mesmerizing travertines that are a sight to behold.

Blue Lake: Giresun’s Liquid Jewel: Situated within Kuzalan Nature Park, Blue Lake is a remarkable site boasting the Black Sea region’s only carbonated water lake, comprised of three smaller lakes. This enclave of natural beauty, home to various plant species, waterfalls, and travertines, is a must-visit for any traveler venturing through the Black Sea region.

Boztepe: Overlooking Ordu: Founded on the slopes of Boztepe, Ordu provides breathtaking views from this vantage point, standing 450 meters above the sea. The ascent to the top, whether by car or cable car, is a delightful experience, revealing a stunning panorama of Ordu and the expansive Black Sea.

Cambasi Ski Center: Winter’s Playful Haven: Nestled in the expansive Çambaşı Plateau, the Çambaşı Ski Center is a popular destination during winter, offering a variety of ski tracks, training facilities, and delightful dining options. Beyond winter, the center also provides guided nature walks, camping, and hiking opportunities amidst its enchanting snow-capped views.

Bozukkale (Cotyora): Where History Meets Nature: Recognized as a significant archaeological site, Bozukkale (Cotyora) offers visitors a glimpse into history with its ancient watchtower and Loryma Ancient City ruins, all set against the captivating backdrop of Bozukkale Bay. Boat trips and guided walks offer different perspectives to appreciate the area’s natural and historical treasures.

Altinordu: Ordu’s Historical and Touristic Hub: Altinordu, the bustling district of Ordu along the Black Sea coast, hosts an array of historical landmarks and tourist attractions. From the Ordu Ethnography Museum to the historical baths, mosques, and cultural centers, Altinordu offers a slice of the region's rich history and vibrant culture.

Ulugol Nature Park: A Symphony of Flora and Fauna: Situated in Ordu's Golkoy district, Ulugol Nature Park is a sanctuary of untouched beauty, declared a national park in 2009. The park invites nature enthusiasts to walk through its dense forests of red pine, beech, hornbeam, and maple, home to a vibrant array of wildlife and endemic plant species.

Perched gracefully on the side of the historic Old Road (Antique Road), merely 4 kilometers from Amasra, the mysterious Bird Statue (Kuşkayası) beckons travelers for a closer look. Accessible either by a scenic hike from Amasra's heart or a quick drive via public minibuses or private vehicles, this unique monument, a solitary eagle etched into the rock accompanied by a Roman soldier statue, holds tales of ancient rest and replenishment for the Roman troops. A site of intriguing global uniqueness and historical significance, the Bird Statue road monument is an essential pitstop when you visit Amasra.

Tranquil and Untouched: Limni Lake in Gümüşhane: Tucked away within the embrace of the 1700-altitude Saronay Plateau in Zigana Village, Limni Lake unfolds as a sanctuary for both wildlife and those seeking serene communion with nature. Visitors during particular seasons might glimpse bears, foxes, gazelles, and roe deer amid the rejuvenation projects spearheaded by the Gümüşhane Provincial Directorate of the Ministry of Environment and Forestry. While bungalow accommodations are restricted, pathways beckoning for leisurely walks unfold around the lake, which is accessible via two different routes, ensuring that the journey is as remarkable as the destination itself.

Winter’s Enchantment: Zigana Ski Center: For those captivated by winter’s allure, the Zigana Ski Center stands as a premier destination, nestled 45 kilometers from Gümüşhane city. Amidst pristine natural beauty, ski enthusiasts can glide down the slopes, with hundreds of chairlift lines at their service, or indulge in serene nature walks when spring unfurls its canvas. With ski lessons available for all ages and an array of hotels and restaurants, the center promises not just recreation but a holistic vacation experience.

Limnos Lake Nature Park: A Haven of Natural Splendor: Boasting boat trips, fishing tours, hiking trails, and camping areas, Limnos Lake Nature Park in Zigana Village offers a tranquil retreat within nature’s lap. Perched on a plateau 1721 meters above sea level, the national park also houses various recreational and tourist facilities amidst its rich biodiversity. Located 60 kilometers from Gümüşhane's center, Limnos Lake stands as a testament to Turkey's hidden paradises.

Into the Depths of Karaca Cave: Karaca Cave invites travelers to explore its ancient beauty, with its extensive length of 256 meters and 1500 m2 area filled with mesmerizing stalactites, stalagmites, and cave lakes formed over millennia. Visitors can embark on guided tours within the cave or simply marvel at the panoramic views offered at this elevated attraction.

Unfolding History at Krom Valley: For the history enthusiast, Krom Valley offers a treasure trove of sights, from ancient churches and chapels to Roman-era arched bridges and exquisite stone houses reminiscent of Greek architecture. As a protected archaeological site, the valley is a living museum of civilizations past, making it an essential destination for those seeking to experience Anatolia's rich history firsthand.

Majestic Tomara Waterfalls: Finally, no visit to the region is complete without witnessing the grandeur of Tomara Waterfalls, a site of breathtaking beauty accessible throughout the year. With waters cascading from a height of 25 meters, sourced from 40 different springs, Tomara is a refreshing oasis in summer and a delightful site for hiking, camping, and exploring trout farms in the surrounding areas.

Exploring the Natural Wonders of Bolu and Abant

Yedigöller National Park (Seven Lakes National Park) Enveloped between Bolu and Zonguldak, Yedigöller National Park is an exquisite sanctuary of seven unique landslide lakes, each contributing to a vibrant ecosystem. Protected since 1965, this haven offers a tranquil escape from urban life, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its diverse, paradisiacal landscapes.

Kartalkaya Ski Resort As one of the premier destinations for winter tourism in Bolu, Kartalkaya Ski Resort offers an array of facilities and slopes to cater to winter sports enthusiasts. Operating from December to April, it provides accommodation, health services, and equipment rental amidst a stunning backdrop of mountains and forests.

Golcuk Nature Park Situated at an altitude of 1220 meters, Golcuk Nature Park boasts a tranquil, artificial lake crafted from smaller ponds. The car-free, oxygen-rich environment is perfect for leisurely strolls around the lake, with scenic pathways, majestic cypress trees, and captivating lake views creating a serene atmosphere.

Akkaya Travertines Located just 10 kilometers from Bolu, Akkaya Travertines mesmerize visitors with their white terraced landscapes reminiscent of Pamukkale. These travertines are a popular sightseeing destination throughout the year, offering swimming, photography, and dining opportunities against a backdrop of natural beauty.

Samsun, situated as the crowning jewel of the Central Black Sea Region, is a city steeped in a rich history that echoes from ancient times. It holds a distinguished place in Turkey’s heritage, being the inception point of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's eminent National Struggle initiated on May 19, 1919.

Amisos Hill Panoramic Beauty & Historical Riches: Amisos Hill, located in Ilkadım, is a historical treasure trove with panoramic views of Samsun. With settlements dating back to the 6th century BC, the hill features city walls, columned streets, ancient temples, and religious edifices from various civilizations.

Terme’s Historical Elegance & Natural Charm: The town of Terme is a blend of history and nature, offering sites from the Cilicians, Medes, Persians, and Romans. Visitors can explore Amazon City, Simenit Lake, and taste Terme's renowned walnut ice cream while wandering through its historical streets.

Asarkale & Rock Tombs, A Historical Retreat : Asarkale, an ancient defensive structure in the Kızılırmak Valley, boasts impressive rock tombs carved into steep walls. With the castle sitting 300 meters above sea level, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Kızılırmak and explore this historical site.

Amazon Village, A Trip Back in Time : Amazon Village provides an immersive historical experience, transporting visitors to the time of warrior Amazon women between 1000 and 2000 BC. The site features wax statues, replica tents, and war tools from the era.

Şahinkaya Canyon, Nature’s Stunning Display : Şahinkaya Canyon offers a breathtaking natural spectacle with its length of 2.5 km and height exceeding 300 meters. The blue waters of Kızılırmak weaving through the canyon have inspired songs and poems, making it a must-visit attraction in Samsun.

Bandırma Ferry, A Symbol of National Pride: The restored Bandırma Ferry, opened as a museum in 2006, symbolizes Samsun's significant historical events. Known for transporting Mustafa Kemal Atatürk to Samsun, the ferry showcases wax statues, period furniture, and historical documents, offering a glimpse into Turkey's past.

Discover Safranbolu: A UNESCO World Heritage Gem

Safranbolu, a UNESCO-listed district, mesmerizes with its centuries-old mansions, offering visitors a living museum experience with streets brimming with historical structures.

Yemeniciler Bazaar: A Nostalgic Marketplace: Yemeniciler Bazaar, once a vibrant shopping area, has been restored to its historical glory, providing a nostalgic peek into the bustling marketplaces of the past.

Tokatlı Canyon: Nature’s Grandeur Unveiled:Tokatlı Canyon, located close to Safranbolu, is a breathtaking nine-kilometer natural treasure known for its unique plant species, abundant wildlife, and stunning landscapes.

Crystal Terrace: A Panoramic Marvel: The Crystal Terrace in Safranbolu offers visitors a thrilling and unobstructed view of the spectacular Tokatlı Canyon from a glass platform situated 80 meters above.

Yörük Village: A Slice of Anatolian Life: Yörük Village, a preserved enclave with 93 historical mansions, represents a microcosm of Safranbolu’s rich heritage and is easily accessible for visitors.

Bulak Mencilis Cave: Nature's Timeless Art Gallery: The ancient Bulak Mencilis Cave, a three-million-year-old natural wonder, captivates visitors with its beautifully formed stalactites, stalagmites, and dripstone pools.

Keltepe Ski Center: Winter Wonderland: Keltepe Ski Center, located at an altitude of 2000 meters, provides winter sports enthusiasts with internationally-standardized tracks, ski lessons, and equipment rental amidst a picturesque snow-covered landscape.