Trabzon and the Black Sea Coast: Green Mountains and Highland Plateaus

Few people picture mist and lush green when they think of Turkey. That's exactly what makes the Black Sea coast around Trabzon special: mountains, tea and highland plateaus instead of sunloungers.

Highlights

• Sumela Monastery – spectacularly built into a cliff face
• Uzungöl – a mountain lake with wooden houses
• Ayder plateau – hot springs and alpine meadows
• Rize – tea plantations as far as the eye can see

Food

Try hamsi (anchovies), kuymak with melted cheese and, of course, the region's black tea.

Tip: The weather changes quickly. Pack a rain jacket even in summer.

Getting there

Trabzon Airport (TZX) sits right on the coast, just ten minutes from the centre.