Trabzon - Uzungöl - Ayder - Batumi
You are invited to an adventure away from crowded groups, where you move to the rhythm of nature rather than the clock, and feel the spirit of the Black Sea at every stop.
As Holitera, we go beyond the classic tour approach. We don't just tick off a "places to visit" list; we watch the sea of fog on the highlands, taste the most authentic forms of local flavors, and explore the wild nature of the Black Sea with a boutique service approach.
From the historic fabric of Trabzon to the fairytale squares of Batumi, from the lively waters of the Fırtına Valley to the hidden highlands at the summits of the Kaçkar Mountains, a carefully planned route awaits you at every moment.
Holitera Premium Tour: All Excursions Included, No extra tour payment!
Extra tours totaling 7,500 TL across different tour programs are free in the Holitera Premium Tour...
| Extra Tours | Other Agencies | In Holitera Premium Programs |
|---|---|---|
| Fırtına Valley Tour | 1,000 TL | Free |
| Huser Highland Tour | 1,500 TL | Free |
| Pokut Highland Tour | 1,500 TL | Free |
| Çat Valley and Elevit Tour | 1,750 TL | Free |
| Batumi Tour | 1,750 TL | Free |
| Total | 7,500 TL | Free |
Holitera Turizm - TÜRSAB A Group - Document No: 14707
Places to Visit: Trabzon Rize Artvin Batumi
Accommodation Information
1st Night: Uzungöl – regional hotels
2nd Night: Batumi – Piazza For Colors Hotel, Hampton by Hilton or equivalent
3rd–4th Night: Ayder Plateau – Haşimoğlu Hotel or equivalent
The listed hotel names reflect our accommodation preferences. Depending on availability, alternative hotels of the same standard may be selected; in such cases, guests will be informed in advance.
Today's Tour Highlights;
At 10:45 AM we meet at Trabzon Airport, complete the tour check-in procedures, and then stop for breakfast at a suitable location in the region. After recharging our energy, we set off toward Altındere National Park, one of Trabzon's most mystical corners. Passing through the magnificent forest range along the Coşandere, we reach Sümela Monastery, built on the steepest slope of Karadağ. As our guide explains this unique Byzantine-era structure, we closely examine the rock frescoes in the Church of the Virgin Mary, the water aqueducts, and the Ayazma. After this journey into the depths of history, we continue by minibus toward the foothills of the high plateaus.
When we arrive in Hamsiköy, it would be a shame to pass without tasting the region's famous Black Sea sütlaç (milk pudding); we make a short stop to photograph the lush green slopes surrounding the village. Then we move on to Furtuna Village on the banks of the Fırtına Stream, which takes its name from its turbulent flow. Strolling through this village, enchanting with its rural architecture and traditional way of life, we listen to the history of the region, while the surrounding natural beauty captivates photography enthusiasts. After our village visit, we head to the Furtuna Tea Factory, where we can observe all the stages tea, the region's most important economic product, goes through before reaching our tables. At the end of our factory tour, accompanied by an expert guide, we enjoy freshly brewed tea served to us.
The last and most magnificent stop of the day is Uzungöl, the most famous lake of the Black Sea. Situated at an altitude of 1090 meters above sea level and surrounded by steep slopes and a velvety forest cover, this unique valley offers a breathtaking view with its natural lake, formed when rocks falling from the slopes blocked the Haldizen Stream, and its traditional wooden buildings. In your free time, you can walk around the lake, try local flavors, or take photographs accompanied by the extraordinary natural scenery. In the evening, we settle into our hotel and rest.
Food & Drink Information
Breakfast: Taken at a suitable stop during the tour. (Extra)
Lunch: Free menu at a regional restaurant. (Extra)
Dinner: Included in the tour price, served as an open buffet or set menu at the hotel.
Places to Visit Today;
After breakfast at the hotel in the morning, we leave Uzungöl and set off towards Rize. Our first stop is the workshop where traditional Rize cloth is woven from hemp, one of the most valuable raw materials of organic textiles. These special fabrics, which are strongly recommended for use in allergies and skin conditions, form one of the region's indispensable handicrafts. In the workshop, accompanied by local masters, we learn the intricacies of weaving and have the opportunity to closely examine regional garments and the Black Sea keşan and poşu.
After our Rize Cloth visit, we head to the Sarp Border Gate. After completing our entry procedures, we cross into the Georgian Adjara region and proceed to Batumi, the most colorful city on the Black Sea coast. We visit the Batumi Central Mosque to feel the cultural fabric of the city, then move on to Piazza Square, which reflects the modern face of Batumi. Walking among the colonnaded passages of this square, which draws inspiration from Venetian architecture, you may suddenly feel as if you are in the very heart of Europe.
We take a short journey through the religious history of the city by visiting St. Nicholas Church. Then we meet at European Square, one of Georgia's most magnificent open-air venues. The gold-gilded Medea Statue, dominating the square, leaves onlookers spellbound; the statue symbolizes the triumphant stance of Medea from the legend of the Argonauts. At Theatre Square, we watch the majestic building of the Batumi Opera and Ballet Theatre and see how history and modern art intertwine. We enjoy the unique view of the Black Sea by walking to the Poseidon Statue and along Batumi Boulevard.
In your free time, you can immerse yourself in Batumi's illuminated night, sit on the Seaside Boulevard and listen to the sound of the sea, or discover local flavors. Guests who wish may join a boat tour (Optional) on this shore associated with the legend of Ali and Nino, enjoying the city's lights from the sea for an unforgettable experience. Later in the evening, a lively Georgian Night (Optional) offering the unique flavors of Georgian cuisine awaits you. We head to our hotel and spend the night in Batumi.
★ Dinner on the Batumi accommodation day is not included in the tour price.
Rules for Crossing into Batumi
Food and Drink Information
Breakfast: Included in the tour price, served at the hotel as a buffet or set menu.
Lunch: Free menu at regional restaurants. (Extra)
Dinner: Taken freely at regional restaurants. (Extra)
Today's Sightseeing Points;
After breakfast at the hotel, we give you some free time; those who wish to explore Batumi in the morning, go shopping, or enjoy a coffee on the Black Sea coast can make the most of this time. We depart at 10:30 and head to the Sarp Border Gate. After completing our entry procedures into Turkey, we continue our program.
Our route takes us to a hidden treasure in the Borçka district of Artvin: Karagöl. In its natural state, this lake is almost untouched, and it enchants visitors with its surrounding dense forest cover and its turquoise-black hues. After boarding the minibuses waiting for us on the banks of the Çoruh River in Borçka district and an approximately 45-minute journey, we reach Karagöl. The free time we spend around the lake lets us closely experience one of the most impressive natural beauties of the Black Sea. After our Karagöl visit, we return to the Black Sea coastal road and pass through the districts of Hopa and Fındıklı.
We take a short break in Çağlayan Village, meet the warm people of the region, and taste local flavors. Then we enter the Fırtına Valley, stretching along the foothills of the Kaçkar Mountains. As we advance along the Fırtına Stream, stone arch bridges, waterfalls, and steep slopes unfold before your eyes like a movie scene; in this place, one of Turkey's most distinctive valleys in terms of botanical and geographical diversity, it is impossible to put down your camera.
The last stop of the day is Ayder Plateau, known as the "sultan of plateaus." Nestled against the lofty peaks of the Kaçkar Mountains, it offers unique tranquility with its thermal waters and unspoiled nature. During our free time, we explore the plateau, chat with the local people, and breathe in nature. Our dinner and accommodation take place at our hotel.
Food & Drink Information
Breakfast: Included in the tour price, served at the hotel as a buffet or set menu.
Lunch: Taken freely at local restaurants. (Extra)
Dinner: Included in the tour price, served at the hotel as a buffet or set menu.
Today's Places to Visit;
On our second morning in Ayder, a special program awaits thrill seekers. Guests who wish may take part in adrenaline-filled activities such as zipline, rafting, or an ATV tour (Optional) in the striking nature of the region. The clear streams and deep valleys of Kaçkar offer a unique ground for outdoor sports, and this experience becomes one of the memories that make the Black Sea tour unforgettable.
After the activities, we head to the most beautiful villages and plateaus of Kaçkar. Our first stop is Şenyuva Village, a living example of traditional Black Sea architecture. Its historic stone and wooden houses, combined with the warm hospitality of the local people, give the village a truly distinctive character. From there we climb to Pokut Plateau, located in the high part of the Kaçkar Mountains, where traditional Hemşin houses without windows or doors draw attention. The unique views and crisp air instantly lift away fatigue.
After a break at Sal Plateau, we reach Huser Plateau, the crown of today's journey. The moment the sun sets behind the silhouette of the Kaçkar Mountains, painted in colors of light, will be among the most beautiful photographs you take during the entire tour. Sitting quietly in the cool plateau air and watching the horizon reminds us once more of the value of being far from the noise of the city. We return to our hotel in the evening and spend the night in Ayder.
Dining Information
Breakfast: Included in the tour price, served at the hotel as a buffet or set menu.
Lunch: Taken freely at local restaurants. (Extra)
Dinner: Included in the tour price, served at the hotel as a buffet or set menu.
Today's Places to Visit;
On the last day of our tour, after breakfast at the hotel, we bid farewell to Ayder. This day offers both a visual feast and the emotional finale of the tour. Our first stop is Zilkale, rising above the Fırtına Valley. One of the strong examples of medieval defensive architecture, this castle is built on steep cliffs at a strategic point; photographs taken with the view overlooking the depths of the valley turn into memorable snapshots. The entrance fee to the castle area is covered by our guests.
After Zilkale, we reach Palovit Waterfall. Fed by the melting snows of the Kaçkar Mountains, this waterfall flows with magnificent power and beauty, especially in spring and summer. Breathing in the cool and humid atmosphere around the waterfall, we feel the power of nature. Then we venture into the depths of Çat Valley and visit Çat Village, which reflects traditional Black Sea architecture. After a short break in the village, we continue climbing to the high plateaus.
Elevit Plateau, Gito Plateau and Badara Plateau are the final wonders that crown our tour, in that order. Each plateau offers a different natural scene: the wide flatlands of Elevit, the wildflower-adorned valley of Gito, and the desolate charm of Badara. As the peaks of the Kaçkar Mountains meet the sky, you take your last photographs in this unique geography and absorb the traces of the Black Sea. After our return journey, we say goodbye at Trabzon Airport at 19.00 until the next meeting.
Food and Drink Information
Breakfast: Included in the tour price, served at the hotel as a buffet or set menu.
Lunch: Taken freely at restaurants in the region. (Extra)
Dinner: Taken freely at restaurants in the region. (Extra)