A full day Ayder tour from Trabzon is the perfect way to experience the natural beauty, culture and traditions of Turkey’s Black Sea region. Journey through the scenic Fırtına Valley, visit stone arch bridges, waterfalls, and ancient castles, then continue to the lush highlands of Ayder Plateau. With private transfers, a professional guide, and flexible timing, this Ayder Plateau Tour is perfect for families and travelers seeking an authentic Black Sea adventure
Your Ayder Tour begins with a morning pickup from your hotel in Trabzon. The first stop is at the Surmene Knife Factory Outlet, famous for its handcrafted Black Sea blades.
The journey continues into the Fırtına Valley, one of the world’s protected ecological regions. Here, you’ll have the chance to try optional rafting or zipline activities before continuing along the scenic river route.
Arriving in Senyuva Village, you’ll explore old wooden houses and the iconic Senyuva (Çinçiva) Stone Arch Bridge, often featured in TV series and commercials.
Next, you’ll visit Zilkale, a medieval fortress dramatically perched 100 meters above the valley. Its walls and panoramic views showcase the strategic importance of the Black Sea highlands.
Afterward, the tour stops at Palovit Waterfall, where cascading waters tumble into the lush valley forest.
Finally, you’ll ascend to Ayder Plateau, the jewel of the Kackar Mountains. Here you’ll visit the Bride’s Tulle Waterfall, enjoy free time to walk among alpine houses, sip tea in mountain cafés, watch traditional horon dances, or relax at a local spa.
By 17:00, the group reconvenes and begins the return journey. On the way back, there will be a stop at the Rize Cloth Weaving Workshop, where you can see traditional weaving methods and purchase handmade textiles. By evening, the tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel in Trabzon.
Surmene Knife Factory Traditional knife makers handcraft Surmene’s famous steel blades using local techniques; here you can see artisans forge, polish, and prepare knives for sale.
Fırtına Valley A lush green valley with the Fırtına River flowing through dramatic landscapes, offering adventures like rafting, zipline, and nature walks.
Şenyuva Village & Stone Arch Bridge A charming rural village where you can admire rustic wooden houses and historic stone arch bridges that reflect traditional Black Sea architecture.
Zilkale Fortress A medieval castle perched over the Fırtına Valley, offering panoramic views over forested slopes and the river below.
Palovit Waterfall One of the most scenic waterfalls in the region, flowing amidst lush forest and often featured in nature and photo tours of Black Sea valleys.
Ayder Plateau High altitude plateau with cool air, green pastures, iconic “Bride’s Tulle” waterfalls, and vibrant local culture (including horon dances) set against mountainous backdrops.
Rize Cloth Workshop A workshop where traditional weaving techniques are still practiced; visitors can see how local textiles are made and purchase authentic woven goods.
