My dream is to explore Turkey’s Black Sea region. I have heard of lush, green mountains, charming wooden houses that recall the Swiss Alps and warm, friendly locals who seem to smile every day. Each month I set aside money for my travel fund and I am gathering details to plan a month-long itinerary for the trip.
The Black Sea of Turkey in Photos
One morning I saw photos from Ugurcan Karayel of “We Make Soap” on Twitter showing scenes from the Black Sea region. He had just returned and kindly agreed to answer a few questions and let me share his photos and responses here.
Hi Ugurcan. I was excited to see the photographs of your holiday in the Black Sea region. Did you visit independently or with an organized tour?
I traveled with my mother. She has a friend who owns a hotel and restaurant, so we stayed there. The hotel is called Dere and it sits beside a fast-flowing stream in the Fırtına Vadisi area of Rize. The owner, Seçkin Yenicirak, runs the hotel with his family. He is also a photographer involved in documentary work. Seçkin kindly arranged a local guide, Ahmet, to show us the region’s highlights.
Which places did the guide show you?
He toured us around the Fırtına Valley—the name translates as “Valley of Storms.” The valley contains six streams that join the main river and eventually flow into the Black Sea. We visited Çamlıhemşin, a mountainous town often regarded as one of the most picturesque spots in the region. Locals make a living from beekeeping and tea cultivation.
We also saw Zil Kale, or Bell Castle, and traveled to the Ayder plateau and highlands, reaching altitudes around 2,600 meters. The air was fragrant with countless wildflowers. In the highlands we encountered traditional stone houses built by locals. Although it was mid-June, patches of snow remained on the higher peaks, yet the weather was pleasantly warm. We finished our tour at the Polovit Waterfall.
I rarely see the Black Sea region mentioned in foreign tourist brochures. Did you notice many other tourists?
There were some visitors—people climbing to Zil Castle and travelers exploring the Ayder Plateau. Ayder Yaylası is the most touristic area locally and transport is straightforward for independent travelers. Organized tours are available too. Overall, however, foreign and even local tourist numbers are modest. Given the area’s beauty, I expected more visitors, but its relative quiet helps keep the region authentic.
What is your favorite memory from the visit?
On the drive back to the hotel we were moving slowly to enjoy the countryside. Rounding a corner, a beautiful waterfall appeared framed by yellow mountain roses, vivid green plants and smooth rocks. The sight was humbling and reminded me of the power and generosity of nature—something no one could reproduce artificially. Moments like that made the trip unforgettable and convinced me I must return.
Five recommendations for visiting the area
1. Visit tea fields and watch locals pick tea leaves. At day’s end, share a cup of Turkish tea with them and learn about local life.
2. Spend time at Ayder plateau to explore waterfalls, traditional stone and wooden houses, and expansive highland scenery—bring a camera for unforgettable photos.
3. Try mihlama, a Rize specialty of melted cheese often enjoyed with bread. It’s a comforting and authentic regional dish.
4. Listen to local folk music, which includes surprising instruments like bagpipes. If you’re invited, join village dances to experience regional culture firsthand.
5. Consider staying at Dere Hotel and Restaurant for a memorable, authentic accommodation that offers great access to the valley and warm, personal hospitality.
Many thanks to Ugurcan for sharing his photos and impressions. If you want to follow his work, he is active on social media under the name We Make Soap.