Step into history and nature on a full day Sumela Monastery Tour from Trabzon. Located dramatically on a cliff within Altındere National Park, the Sumela Monastery is one of the Black Sea’s most important cultural landmarks, with chapels, frescoes, and sacred fountains. This private journey continues across the legendary Zigana Pass, part of the ancient Silk Road, before visiting Hamsikoy, a mountain village famed for its landscapes and rice pudding dessert “sutlac.” The day concludes with a peaceful stop at Limni Lake, surrounded by forests and fresh mountain air.
Your Private or Small Group Sumela Monastery Tour begins with a hotel pickup in Trabzon. After about an hour’s drive, you’ll arrive at Altındere National Park, where the Sumela Monastery sits dramatically on a steep cliff. Once inside, explore its chapels, library, guest rooms, sacred fountain, and the main rock church, all decorated with Byzantine frescoes.
The journey continues across the Zigana Pass, a historic route on the Silk Road reaching 2,050 meters above sea level. Enjoy lunch at a traditional mountain restaurant while admiring the views.
Next, visit Hamsikoy Village, renowned for its alpine scenery and delicious rice pudding dessert (sütlaç). Take a short walk around the village and enjoy the local flavors.
Finally, stop at Limni Lake Nature Park, a tranquil setting surrounded by pine forests and fresh mountain air. Relax by the lakeside or take photos before returning to Trabzon in the evening.
Altındere National Park A lush protected area that houses the famous Sumela Monastery.
Sumela Monastery Explore one of Türkiye’s most iconic monasteries with frescoes, chapels, and sacred springs.
Zigana Pass A legendary mountain pass on the historic Silk Road, offering panoramic views and local cuisine.
Hamsikoy Village A picturesque village known for its natural beauty and famous Black Sea rice pudding (sütlaç).
Limni Lake A serene mountain lake surrounded by forests, ideal for relaxation and photography
