Rize Ayder Highland & Storm Valley Tour

Your guide meets you in your hotel lobby and you drive to the Camlihemsin district of Rize, where the stunning landscapes of the Kackar Mountains begin. The journey starts in Storm Valley, one of the most beautiful valleys of the Black Sea region.

The Storm River rushes between steep forested mountains, with breathtaking views, and is a paradise for rafting and nature lovers.

You continue to Zilkale Castle, a medieval fortress perched dramatically on a rocky cliff above the valley. Believed to date from the 14th or 15th century, it has eight towers and a watchtower, with panoramic views of the mountains. It once helped protect the trade routes through the region.

Next is Palovit Waterfall. Fed by streams from the Kackar Mountains, it drops 15 metres into a lush green canyon, its power and mist capturing the wild beauty of Rize.

The route continues to Gelintulu Waterfall near Ayder Highland. Named for its resemblance to a bride's veil, it falls gracefully from the snowy peaks of the Kackar range. Its water comes from the Kavron Stream and flows on towards the Ayder hot springs, whose warm sulphurous water is said to have healing properties.

Finally you reach Ayder Highland, one of the most famous plateaus of the Eastern Black Sea. At 1,350 metres and surrounded by spruce and beech forests, it is known for its hot springs, wooden chalets and rich plant and animal life.

You have free time to enjoy the fresh mountain air, take photos and explore the village atmosphere before driving back to your hotel.