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Daily Tour
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Sumela Monastery – Ayder Highlands – Uzungöl Nature Park
Escape the bustle of Istanbul and immerse yourself in the lush landscapes, misty mountains, and cultural treasures of Turkey’s Black Sea region. This 3-day Black Sea tour from Istanbul combines iconic landmarks, highland villages, waterfalls, and pristine nature—perfect for travelers seeking a short yet unforgettable getaway.
Your journey begins early in the morning with a hotel pick-up in Istanbul and transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Trabzon. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by your professional guide and begin exploring one of the most spectacular regions in northern Turkey.
Sumela Monastery
Set dramatically on the steep cliffs of Altındere National Park, Sumela Monastery is one of Turkey’s most iconic religious landmarks. Founded by Greek Orthodox monks, the monastery rises approximately 300 meters above the valley floor, surrounded by dense forests and waterfalls. Its remote location reflects the ancient monastic tradition of building spiritual centers far from city life, within nature and caves.
Karaca Cave
After Sumela, continue to Karaca Cave—often described as a natural underground gallery. Inside, you will discover an impressive collection of stalactites, stalagmites, travertines, columns, and rare cave formations, all naturally illuminated to highlight their beauty.
Lunch at a Local Restaurant
Enjoy lunch featuring regional Black Sea flavors.
Hamsiköy Village
Your final stop of the day is the charming mountain village of Hamsiköy. Famous throughout Turkey for its traditional rice pudding (sütlaç) and local dry beans, this village offers a perfect cultural and culinary experience.
Transfer to your hotel in Trabzon for overnight stay.
After breakfast, depart at approximately 09:00 AM for a full-day exploration of the eastern Black Sea’s most famous highlands.
Sürmene Knife Workshop
Visit Sürmene, renowned for its centuries-old tradition of handcrafted knives, still produced using traditional techniques.
Traditional Weaving & Tea Gardens
Discover local textile weaving on traditional wooden looms and stroll through the lush tea groves at Ziraat Botanical Garden in Rize, learning about Turkey’s tea culture.
Fırtına (Storm) Valley & Ottoman Stone Bridge
Enjoy a scenic tea break near a historic Ottoman stone bridge in the breathtaking Storm Valley, known for its dramatic landscapes and rivers.
Ayder Plateau & Waterfalls
Ascend to the famous Ayder Highlands, where alpine meadows, wooden houses, and cascading waterfalls create postcard-perfect scenery. Enjoy lunch and free time to explore the plateau, walk through nature, or relax in the fresh mountain air.
Return to Trabzon in the evening, driving through endless greenery. Overnight in Trabzon.
After breakfast, pick-up from your hotel at around 10:00 AM and depart for one of Turkey’s most photographed natural destinations.
Horse Farm & Tea Factory Visits
En route to Uzungöl, visit a local horse farm and a tea factory to gain insight into rural Black Sea life.
Uzungöl Nature Park
Declared a protected nature park, Uzungöl is surrounded by spruce forests, misty mountains, and traditional wooden houses. The region is known for its rich biodiversity, home to wildlife such as roe deer, wild boar, bears, lynx, birds of prey, and trout. Enjoy free time to walk around the lake, take photos, or relax at lakeside cafés.
At the end of the tour, transfer to Trabzon Airport for your flight back to Istanbul. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel.
✔ Round-trip domestic flight tickets
✔ Airport & hotel transfers
✔ Private air-conditioned vehicle
✔ Professional English-speaking guide
✔ Entrance fees to all mentioned sites
✘ Drinks
✘ Tips
✘ Personal expenses
✔ Covers the top 3 Black Sea highlights in just 3 days
✔ Ideal balance of nature, culture, and local life
✔ Stress-free travel with flights & transfers included
✔ Perfect for couples, families, and small groups
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