The Black Sea region of Turkey is one of my favorite places. It has a distinctive vibe, mainly because of the original cultures that live there including the Laz and Hemsin people.
My tour started in Trabzon and ended in the eastern city of Kars and during that time, I was introduced to beautiful natural landscapes, friendly people and thanks to my guide, I gained in-depth knowledge of the history and local foods of the area.
There is also a stark difference in landscapes when comparing the area to the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts. Instead of golden beaches and a dry climate, the black sea region of Turkey is a mountainous region covered with green pine trees and because it is high above sea level, the climate is somewhat cooler.
If you want to visit the Black sea region of Turkey, more information is listed here or you can take a look at the photos below to see what you are missing.
My Favourite Photos from the Black Sea Region of Turkey
The Demirkapi plateau is my first photograph. The plateau has small villages dotted all over the mountainside which consists of houses called Yaylas. These are summer houses for Turks who head higher into the mountains during the summer months to escape the heat.
In the same area as Demirkapi plateau, there is Uzungol which is now popular with middle eastern tourists. Many people visit just for a day and this is not enough time to explore. The best way to get around is by hiring a bicycle and this will introduce the full beauty of the area to you.
The Ayder plateau is another destination that deserves an overnight stay. It is not as accustomed to tourism as Uzungol but the culture and food of the local Laz people certainly make it an interesting visit.
The church of twelve apostles is in the large city of Kars. Located near near the castle, it has now been converted into a mosque.
This photo is a view from the city of Rize which is known throughout Turkey as the centre of tea production.
Also in the Rize region is the small valley called Findikli. These are the local houses which are traditionally built in the same style. Owners of the houses also usually have tea gardens that are full with growing tea leaves that will be picked when the season finishes.
Firtina Vadesi has to be one of the most beautiful places in the region. A fast flowing river runs through the valley and local restaurants serve fresh fish every day.
If you make the hike uphill, Goksu waterfall is worth the energy. Located high in the mountains, it is one of the biggest waterfalls in the region
Not to be confused with the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, this one is located in the city of Trabzon. It is not as big but just as impressive.
A Hemsin tea house turned out to be the perfect place to stop for homemade Ayran and to watch the local men play a game of okey.
Known as Black lake, this area is protected by law. In the winter time, it is not unusual for the lake to freeze over
Beekeeping is a popular job in the Black sea region of Turkey. Locals will tend to their own hives and bees, later selling on any natural honey that is produced.
These houses are in the region of Macahel, on the border with Georgia. The wooden store houses are pften put on stilts to prevent bears from getting to the honey.
This photo was taken at the ruins of Ani, which are near the border with Armenia. The ruins include many churches and mosques that are now under threat because of the lack of restoration work taking place.
Savsat national park absolutely amazed me with its rolling green fields. A calm and peaceful place, it is also full of natural beauty.
Sumela monastery is possibly the most famous landmark in the region. Located on the side of a cliff face, it should be visited if you are in the Trabzon region.
Readers Question : Have you been to the Black sea region of Turkey?
Tour of the Black sea Region
Spend four days or more in the North East region of Turkey and you can see all the sites above, including the Sumela Monastery and Firtina Vadesi. Find out more…