about
Nestled between the crashing waves of the Black Sea and the lush, rolling mountains of Anatolia, Turkey’s Black Sea Region offers a distinct cultural and natural experience unlike any other part of the country. Its rugged beauty is characterized by clusters of quaint villages and scenic harborside towns, making it a paradise for road-trippers, adventurers, and nature lovers alike.
Scenic Roads & Hidden Treasures
The coastal road winding through the region is one of Turkey’s most scenic drives. Travelers can explore ancient fortifications, peaceful fishing villages, and hidden coves with pristine, empty beaches. One of the crown jewels of the region is Sümela Monastery, perched dramatically on a cliffside in the eastern part of the region.
Rich Nature & Agriculture
The region’s fertile land is home to Turkey’s largest tea plantations, expansive hazelnut orchards, and cherry fields. The anchovy (hamsi) is not just a local delicacy but a cultural icon. As you travel, you’ll encounter vibrant green landscapes, alpine pastures, and refreshing mountain air.
Cycling and Adventure Destination
For cyclists and adventure seekers, the Black Sea Region provides countless routes through its green mountain slopes and sleepy seaside hamlets. Whether it’s hiking along the mist-covered Kaçkar Mountains or cycling along coastal roads, the region is brimming with opportunities for exploration.
This off-the-beaten-path destination showcases Turkey’s diverse landscape, where history, nature, and culture intertwine seamlessly—offering visitors a peaceful retreat from the bustle of everyday life.
see
Sümela Monastery in Trabzon
The Sümela Monastery, also known as the Monastery of the Virgin Mary, is an Orthodox monastery built into the cliffs of Mela Mountain, founded in the 4th century CE by monks Barnabas and Sophronios. Over centuries, it grew to be a center of science, culture, and religious significance, with its library holding a wealth of manuscripts. The monastery played an important role during the Byzantine and Ottoman periods, receiving gifts from Ottoman sultans as a sign of respect. Listed on UNESCO's temporary World Heritage Sites in 2000, Sümela was reopened to visitors in 2020 after a lengthy restoration.
Zil Castle in Rize
Perched on the western slopes of Fırtına Stream, Zil Castle stands 750 meters above sea level, featuring outer walls, middle walls, and an inner citadel. Dating back to the 13th century, its strategic location and construction served to protect trade routes in the region. Key attractions include the main tower, guard house, and chapel, making it an essential stop for history enthusiasts.
Sinop Historic Prison
Nicknamed the "Alcatraz of Anatolia," the Sinop Historic Prison has a fascinating history, with its origins tied to an inner castle built by the Seljuks in 1214. Over the years, the fortress was used as a shipyard and later as a prison starting from 1560. Closed in 1999, it has since been converted into a museum showcasing Turkey’s complex past.
Göynük and Mudurnu in Bolu
Both towns are members of the Cittaslow Movement, preserving their authentic Ottoman charm. Göynük is known for its preserved houses, folklore, and proximity to lakes such as Sünnet and Çubuk. Mudurnu boasts over 180 historical buildings and stunning natural scenery, making both destinations ideal for those seeking a cultural retreat.
The Safranbolu Houses in Karabük
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994, Safranbolu is renowned for its 17th- and 18th-century houses, mosques, and public buildings, representing the height of Ottoman civil architecture. The town’s bazaars, inns, and hamams offer visitors a unique blend of history and Turkish culture.
Hattusa in Çorum
Once the capital of the Hittite Empire, Hattusa is a site of immense archaeological and historical significance. On UNESCO's World Cultural Heritage List since 1986, its remnants include grand palaces, temples, and fortifications dating back to the 13th century BCE, providing a glimpse into Anatolia’s ancient civilizations.
Bandırma Ferry in Samsun
The Bandırma Ferry gained its fame as the ship that carried Atatürk and his comrades to Samsun in 1919, marking the beginning of Turkey’s independence movement. Today, a replica of the ferry serves as part of an open-air museum commemorating this pivotal event.
Yason Burnu Peninsula and Yason Church in Ordu
Located along the Black Sea coast, Yason Burnu is famous for its scenic beauty and the historic Yason Church, built in 1869. According to legend, it was part of the Argonaut expedition. The site’s coastal views and restored church make it an enchanting stop for visitors.
The Historical Mansions in Kastamonu
Built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Kastamonu Mansions are stunning examples of traditional Turkish civil architecture. Nestled along narrow streets, these mansions showcase unique facades and elegant interiors. Many have been restored and are now used as hotels, offering guests a glimpse into local life and history.
Mine Museum in Zonguldak
Zonguldak’s Mine Museum offers insight into Turkey’s coal-mining history, dating back to the 1880s. Visitors can explore exhibitions showcasing mining equipment, learn about the region’s industrial heritage, and even venture into part of the original mining tunnels, providing an educational experience.
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A Grand Variety of Savour in Bolu
Bolu is renowned for its talented chefs, who once prepared meals for Ottoman sultans. Today, you can enjoy the city’s delicious local foods, including İmaret Soup, made with rice cooked in milk and seasoned with onions, as well as Abant Kebab and Kartalkaya Kebab.
Anchovy Everywhere in Black Sea
Anchovy, one of Turkey’s most popular seafood items, thrives along the Black Sea coast, particularly in Trabzon and Rize. Here, anchovies are not only eaten plain but also cooked into bread and rice dishes, making it a staple of local cuisine.
Kuymak in Trabzon
Also known as muhlama, Kuymak is a creamy dish made of corn flour, butter, and special melted cheese, creating a rich and delicious texture. Another local specialty is hoşmer, a mixture of corn flour, cheese, and whole milk.
Tea in Rize
Rize, the tea capital of Turkey, grows 60% of the country’s tea. Tea is an essential part of Turkish culture, commonly served at breakfast and social gatherings. A perfect souvenir from Rize, it’s known for its fresh and aromatic flavor.
Pide (Pita) in Samsun
Pide, similar to a flatbread pizza, is a popular dish across the Black Sea Region. The districts of Bafra, Çarşamba, and Terme in Samsun each have their own signature varieties with unique doughs and toppings, ranging from minced meat to cheese.
Hazelnut in Ordu
As the world’s largest producer, Turkey supplies 60% of global hazelnuts, and Ordu leads the country in hazelnut production. The city’s fresh hazelnuts are prized for their flavor and quality and are found in every corner of the city.
Apple in Amasya
Known as the Amasya Apple or Misket Apple, this small apple has a thin peel, a fragrant aroma, and a sweet, crisp flavor. Although it can be found throughout Turkey, the most delicious apples are grown in Amasya, its place of origin.
Leblebi (Roasted Chickpeas) in Çorum
Çorum is famous for its leblebi (roasted chickpeas), available in various flavors like plain, spicy, sweet, and chocolate-coated. Cooked over wood fire, leblebi is a signature snack of the city and is exported throughout Turkey.
Taşköprü Garlic in Kastamonu
The Taşköprü district is Turkey’s leading garlic producer, known for its large, flavorful, and aromatic garlic. Harvested in July, this garlic is celebrated not only for its high production but also for its health benefits and taste.
Vakfıkebir Bread in Trabzon
Vakfıkebir Bread is known for its large size and delicious taste, achieved through the use of local flour and water. Baked on wood fire, this bread has become a symbol of the district, with an annual festival held in its honor.
Kuru Fasulye (Dried Beans) in Rize
Rize’s Çayeli district is famous for its dried beans dish, which gained national fame in the 1980s. Slowly cooked and paired with tender local meat, this dish is a favorite in Turkey and is known for its rich, savory flavor.
Laz Böreği (Flan) in Artvin
Unlike most flans in Turkey, which are savory, Laz Böreği is a sweet dessert filled with custard and topped with syrup. Identified with Artvin, this treat is loved in regions where the Laz community lives.
Anzer Honey in Rize
Produced in the high plateaus of Rize, Anzer Honey is world-famous for its unique flavor and medicinal qualities. With wildflower vegetation and high-altitude production, it is a treasured and valuable product globally.
touch
A Grand Variety of Savour in Bolu
Bolu is renowned for its talented chefs, who once prepared meals for Ottoman sultans. Today, you can enjoy the city’s delicious local foods, including İmaret Soup, made with rice cooked in milk and seasoned with onions, as well as Abant Kebab and Kartalkaya Kebab.
Anchovy Everywhere in Black Sea
Anchovy, one of Turkey’s most popular seafood items, thrives along the Black Sea coast, particularly in Trabzon and Rize. Here, anchovies are not only eaten plain but also cooked into bread and rice dishes, making it a staple of local cuisine.
Kuymak in Trabzon
Also known as muhlama, Kuymak is a creamy dish made of corn flour, butter, and special melted cheese, creating a rich and delicious texture. Another local specialty is hoşmer, a mixture of corn flour, cheese, and whole milk.
Tea in Rize
Rize, the tea capital of Turkey, grows 60% of the country’s tea. Tea is an essential part of Turkish culture, commonly served at breakfast and social gatherings. A perfect souvenir from Rize, it’s known for its fresh and aromatic flavor.
Pide (Pita) in Samsun
Pide, similar to a flatbread pizza, is a popular dish across the Black Sea Region. The districts of Bafra, Çarşamba, and Terme in Samsun each have their own signature varieties with unique doughs and toppings, ranging from minced meat to cheese.
Hazelnut in Ordu
As the world’s largest producer, Turkey supplies 60% of global hazelnuts, and Ordu leads the country in hazelnut production. The city’s fresh hazelnuts are prized for their flavor and quality and are found in every corner of the city.
Apple in Amasya
Known as the Amasya Apple or Misket Apple, this small apple has a thin peel, a fragrant aroma, and a sweet, crisp flavor. Although it can be found throughout Turkey, the most delicious apples are grown in Amasya, its place of origin.
Leblebi (Roasted Chickpeas) in Çorum
Çorum is famous for its leblebi (roasted chickpeas), available in various flavors like plain, spicy, sweet, and chocolate-coated. Cooked over wood fire, leblebi is a signature snack of the city and is exported throughout Turkey.
Taşköprü Garlic in Kastamonu
The Taşköprü district is Turkey’s leading garlic producer, known for its large, flavorful, and aromatic garlic. Harvested in July, this garlic is celebrated not only for its high production but also for its health benefits and taste.
Vakfıkebir Bread in Trabzon
Vakfıkebir Bread is known for its large size and delicious taste, achieved through the use of local flour and water. Baked on wood fire, this bread has become a symbol of the district, with an annual festival held in its honor.
Kuru Fasulye (Dried Beans) in Rize
Rize’s Çayeli district is famous for its dried beans dish, which gained national fame in the 1980s. Slowly cooked and paired with tender local meat, this dish is a favorite in Turkey and is known for its rich, savory flavor.
Laz Böreği (Flan) in Artvin
Unlike most flans in Turkey, which are savory, Laz Böreği is a sweet dessert filled with custard and topped with syrup. Identified with Artvin, this treat is loved in regions where the Laz community lives.
Anzer Honey in Rize
Produced in the high plateaus of Rize, Anzer Honey is world-famous for its unique flavor and medicinal qualities. With wildflower vegetation and high-altitude production, it is a treasured and valuable product globally.
smell
Şavşat Karagöl in Artvin
Located in the Karagöl-Sahara National Park, Şavşat Karagöl is a beautiful destination for nature lovers, ideal for camping and caravan camping. Surrounded by pine and spruce forests, this landslide dam lake is home to various wildlife such as lynx, brown bears, and birds of prey.
Çoruh River in Artvin
Stretching 431 km (410 km in Turkey), the Çoruh River is known for its fast flow and thrilling white-water rafting experiences. It flows through Artvin and Bayburt before reaching the Black Sea, attracting adventure seekers and hosting international kayaking and rafting events.
Fırtına Stream in Rize
Fırtına Stream, flowing through the Kaçkar Mountains, offers exciting rafting and ziplining experiences. With its high flow rate, it is one of the most famous and important streams in Rize, providing scenic adventures along its course.
Erfelek Waterfalls in Sinop
Erfelek Waterfalls, also known as Tatlıca Waterfalls, consist of 28 cascading waterfalls nestled in a nature park. Located 10 km from Erfelek and 45 km from Sinop, this natural wonder is ideal for hiking and offers peaceful surroundings for relaxation.
Plateaus in Rize
Rize’s plateaus are perfect for trekking and experiencing authentic highland life. Famous ones include Ayder Plateau with its thermal springs and Pokut Plateau, which offers panoramic views of the Caucasus Mountains. Other notable plateaus include Sal, Gito, and Huser, each with unique above-the-clouds landscapes.
Giresun Island in Giresun
The largest island on the Turkish Black Sea coast, Giresun Island boasts historical ruins, a roofless stone temple, and archaeological artifacts. The island is known for its association with the Amazons and is a key part of the annual Aksu Festival.
Lake Abant in Bolu
Nestled in the Abant Mountains, Lake Abant is a serene destination for cycling, fishing, paragliding, and horseback riding. Known for its stunning scenery, local handicrafts, and folk culture, it is an ideal location for both relaxation and exploration.
Yeşilırmak River in Tokat, Amasya, and Samsun
The Yeşilırmak River, or "Green River," flows 519 km from Sivas to the Black Sea, passing through Tokat, Amasya, and Samsun. Historically known as the Iris River, it is essential for the region’s agriculture and is home to several important dams.
Zigana Plateau in Gümüşhane
Located near the Zigana Tunnel, Turkey’s longest, the Zigana Plateau sits at 2,032 meters. The area offers lodgings and facilities for visitors and is home to the Zigana Ski Center, making it a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
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Kemençe in Rize and Trabzon
The kemençe, a traditional three-stringed instrument with a melancholic sound, is central to Black Sea folklore and often accompanies the region's famous folk dance, Horon. The instrument is carved from a single piece of wood and played with a bow, creating a distinct rhythm that energizes cultural celebrations across Rize and Trabzon.
Whistling Language (Bird Language) in Giresun
Known as Kuş Dili (Bird Language), this whistling form of communication, developed in Kuşköy village of the Çanakçı district, has been practiced for 500 years. It was included in UNESCO’s “Intangible Cultural Heritage Requiring Immediate Protection” list. An annual festival promotes this unique form of communication, keeping the local tradition alive.
Yedikuğular Kuş Cenneti (Bird Heaven) in Amasya
Located near Yedikır Dam, Yedikuğular Kuş Cenneti is a sanctuary for migratory birds, including ruddy shelducks and greenheads. The area also offers opportunities for fishing, featuring species like redheads, carp, and crane fish, making it a perfect location for birdwatchers and anglers alike.
Mençuna Waterfall in Artvin
Situated 17 km from Arhavi, Mençuna Waterfall offers a mesmerizing natural experience with its 90-meter cascading waters. Visitors can enjoy the scenic hiking trail, swim in the pond below, and relax on observation terraces, making it a must-see attraction in Artvin.
Maral Waterfall in Artvin
Located within the UNESCO-designated Camili Biosphere Reserve, Maral Waterfall is a natural wonder in the Borçka district. Its 63-meter drop into a small lake provides a stunning landscape perfect for swimming and hiking.
Palovit Waterfall in Rize
Situated in the Kaçkar Mountains National Park, Palovit Waterfall is the tallest in the region, cascading from a height of 15 meters. Its surrounding green areas offer picnic spots, campsites, and breathtaking views, making it a popular outdoor destination.
The Ship Launching Ceremony in Bartın
A 300-400-year-old tradition, Bartın's ship launching ceremony is a grand cultural event. Local people gather to watch as ships decorated with flags are launched into the water with traditional rituals, including the sacrifice of sheep, followed by music and festivities.
Tomara Waterfall in Gümüşhane
Located in the village of Seydibaba, Tomara Waterfall is famous for its legends and spectacular views. Its source comes from underground springs, and the waterfall attracts photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike with its picturesque setting among steep slopes.
routes
Spiritual Routes
Monasteries of The Black Sea in Trabzon:
Sümela Monastery, perched high on a cliff in the Altındere Valley near Maçka, offers a combination of nature, history, and culture. Believed to be constructed in the 4th century, it gained prominence under Alexios III Megas Komnenos (1349-1390). Known locally as “Meryem Ana” (Virgin Mary), the monastery was recently restored and offers breathtaking views. Nearby, Vazelon Monastery, one of Anatolia's oldest monasteries dating back to 270 CE, is dedicated to John the Baptist.
Landscape of Monasteries in Artvin:
Artvin is home to several medieval Georgian monasteries:
- Doliskana Monastery: A medieval Orthodox church, now a mosque, featuring 10th-century Georgian inscriptions on its walls.
- Ishkani Monastery: Built in 1008 and later converted into a mosque in 1549, the church features reliefs of a dragon and lion combat scene.
- Tbeti Monastery: Constructed between 899 and 914, it showcases impressive reliefs of Christ and ram heads, symbolizing the Bagrationi dynasty’s reverence for Huns.
- Barhal Monastery (Parkhali): Built in the 9th century, this domeless Georgian church dedicated to John the Baptist is now a mosque.
Rafting Routes
Çoruh River, Artvin:
One of the world’s fastest-flowing rivers, Çoruh River offers four courses of varying difficulty along its 169 km stretch. It hosts international rafting competitions and attracts adventure seekers from around the globe.
Fırtına River & İkizdere River, Rize:
Fırtına River, meaning “storm,” is a thrilling rafting destination with 57 km of rapids and four different difficulty levels. Surrounded by lush tea gardens and historical bridges, it’s a scenic and exciting rafting spot.
Trekking Routes
Lake Abant National Park, Bolu:
Surrounded by pine forests and vibrant flowers, Lake Abant is perfect for short or long treks. The lake’s beauty peaks during autumn, and it’s an ideal destination just 2-3 hours from both İstanbul and Ankara.
Yenice Forests, Karabük:
A lesser-known treasure in Turkey, Yenice Forest offers diverse hiking trails through lush greenery and canyons. Designated by WWF as a biodiversity hotspot, it’s a must-visit for nature lovers. Nearby, Safranbolu, with its well-preserved Ottoman houses, is worth a visit for a glimpse into Turkey’s architectural heritage.
10 vibes for black see
Drink a Glass of Turkish Tea in Rize
In Turkey, 60% of the tea plantations are in Rize. Relaxing and delighting, tea is the most popular breakfast drink and the most consumed beverage in Turkey. It also makes a perfect souvenir!
Discover the Biggest Canyon of Turkey in Kastamonu
Valla Canyon in Kastamonu is one of the deepest and longest canyons in the world. Stretching 10 kilometers, its cliffs range from 800 to 1,200 meters high, attracting photography, rafting, and trekking enthusiasts from around the world.
Walk Between Erfelek Waterfalls in Sinop
In Erfelek district of Sinop, Erfelek Waterfalls (also known as Tatlıca Waterfalls) consist of 28 small and large waterfalls. With scenic hiking trails, it’s the perfect spot to spend a day immersed in peaceful nature.
Take a Ferry at Şahinkaya Canyon
Situated on the Kızılırmak River in Samsun's Vezirköprü district, Şahinkaya Canyon is Turkey’s second-longest canyon. With its turquoise waters and steep walls, it’s ideal for boat tours, camping, trekking, photography, and angling.
Journey Through the Past in Çorum
Hattusa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986, was the capital of the Hittites in the 17th century BCE. Most of the surviving ruins date back to the 13th century BCE, making it a treasure trove of ancient history.
Visit the One Thousand Years Old Monastery in Trabzon
Sümela Monastery, founded in the 4th century CE by monks Barnabas and Sophronios, is among Turkey’s most iconic sights. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, this Orthodox monastery sits high on a steep cliff and is a significant cultural treasure of the Black Sea coast.
Admire the Variety of Colours in Bolu
Yedigöller National Park, located 40 km from Bolu city center, is home to seven landslide lakes surrounded by lush vegetation and rugged terrain. It offers magnificent natural landscapes perfect for relaxation and outdoor exploration.
Pick the Nuts from the Trees in Ordu
Turkey produces 60% of the world’s hazelnuts, and Ordu is its top producer. With hazelnut trees spread across the city, you can pick fresh nuts and enjoy the region’s globally famous produce.
Do Rafting on One of the Fastest Streams of the World in Rize
Fırtına Stream in Rize features cascading streams flowing down the slopes of the Kaçkar Mountains. It’s 57 km long with four difficulty levels, making it ideal for adventurous rafting tours with breathtaking surroundings.
Learn More About Mining Tradition in Zonguldak
Zonguldak, known for its coal production, has a mining history dating back 140 years. Visit the mines where mineral extraction began in the 1880s and learn more about the region’s mining heritage.
