Nature, History and Adventure

From Ayder to Kaçkar A World Above the Clouds

Ayder Plateau, located at the foot of the Kaçkar Mountains, above the clouds, is one of the most special tourism centers of the Black Sea region with its plateaus, waterfalls, thermal springs and unique natural beauty.

Plateaus Huser – Pokut – Sal – Avusor – Gito
Waterfalls Palovit – Gelin Tulu – Tar Selalesi
History Zil Kale – Hemsin Mansions – Arch Bridges
Special Route for You

Choose your plan according to your reason for visiting Ayder.

Discover ready-made itineraries for Ayder Plateau that include places to visit, activities to do, and accommodation recommendations based on the purpose of your visit.

Ideal for First Timers

This is my first time here

A classic two-day holiday plan for first-time visitors to Ayder, covering the centre, Fırtına Valley and the highlands. ...

  • Central Accommodation
  • Classic Highland Tour
  • Gelintülü Waterfall
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Best Shots

Ayder for Photographers

A photo-focused Ayder plan, scheduled hour by hour for cloud sea, sunrise and sunset views, with a focus on plateaus and valleys. ...

  • Gelintülü Waterfall
  • Panoramic Plateaus
  • Sea of ​​Clouds & Sunset
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City Escape

I just want to rest

A relaxing and peaceful holiday plan in Ayder, featuring short walks, thermal spa experiences and recommendations for quiet accommodation. ...

  • Thermal & Spa
  • Bungalow Experience
  • Local Flavors
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Year-Round Guide

When to Visit Ayder? Answer to the Question

Ayder Plateau offers a different beauty in every season. Choose the season you plan to visit and discover what awaits you in Ayder.

İlkbahar Pokut yaylası

Spring – The Power of Waterfalls

A time when waterfalls flow with enthusiasm, the sounds of streams envelop nature, and dozens of shades of green emerge. It is one of the most ideal times for intermediate hikes and nature photography.

  • Waterfalls flow at maximum power
  • Cool and comfortable walking trails
  • Soft light for photography
Yaz Avusor Gölü

Summer – Cool Kaçkar Plateaus

The season most popular with those seeking to escape the city heat and enjoy the cool mountain air. It offers a lively, energetic, and social atmosphere.

  • Cool highland air (Don't forget your coat)
  • The most lively and active period
  • Colorful plateau festivals
Sonbahar Ayder Yaylası

Autumn – A Photographer's Dream

The most photogenic period, when the color palette shifts from yellow to orange and misty hills emerge. It offers a more peaceful and tranquil Ayder experience.

  • Best season for sea of ​​fog and sunset
  • Golden hour light lasts all day
  • Tranquility for nature walks
Kış Ayder Yaylası

Winter – Snow, Silence and Thermal

Completely blanketed in white by snowfall, Ayder transforms into a unique winter destination that offers photography, nature, and warm thermal experiences all in one place.

  • Snow-covered fairytale plateaus
  • Heli-skiing and winter activities
  • Enjoy the hot thermal baths in the evenings
Source of Healing Waters

Ayder Hot Springs

Rejuvenate with healing thermal waters from the depths of the Kaçkar Mountains, reaching temperatures of approximately 55°C. Ayder Hot Springs stand out for their mineral-rich waters, which offer benefits for a wide range of conditions from rheumatism to skin disorders, their peaceful atmosphere in the heart of nature, and their traditional thermal experience.

  • Mineral thermal pools
  • Private family bathrooms and spa areas
Detailed Information About Ayder Hot Springs
Ayder Kaplıcaları Termal
55°C Healing Water

Popular Activities in Ayder

Ayder is captivating not only for its scenery but also for the nature and adventure-filled activities it offers. Feel the adrenaline in Fırtına Creek, watch the sunset above the clouds in Huser Plateau, or embark on an unforgettable journey to the peaks of the Kaçkar Mountains. Discover the unique experiences awaiting you in the heart of nature.

 Ayder Fırtına Valley Rafting

Fırtına Valley Rafting

Paddle through the foamy waters of Fırtına River. One of the most exciting experiences in Ayder for adrenaline and adventure lovers.

 Ayder Plateau Zipline

Ayder Plateau Zipline

Soar like a bird over the Fırtına River. A thrilling yet safe zipline experience suitable for all ages.

 Ayder Huser Sunset

Huser Sunset

Witness a breathtaking sunset above the clouds and enjoy the famous swing of Huser Plateau.

 Ayder Plateau Tours

Plateau Tours

Explore iconic Black Sea highlands such as Pokut, Sal, and Gito. Enjoy tea with panoramic views above the clouds.

 Ayder Waterfall Tours

Waterfall Tours

Visit natural wonders like Gelin Tülü and Palovit Waterfalls and relax with the soothing sound of flowing water.

 Ayder Nature Hiking

Nature Hiking

Walk along oxygen-rich trails of the Kaçkar Mountains and refresh your soul among countless shades of green.

 Ayder Glacial Lake Tours

Glacial Lake Tours

Discover hidden treasures of high-altitude mountains and admire the turquoise beauty of glacial lakes.

 Ayder Photo Safari

Photo Safari

Capture breathtaking landscapes and unique moments of nature and wildlife through your lens.

 Ayder Summit Climbing

Summit Climbing

Climb the peaks of the Kaçkar Mountains with professional guides and feel the freedom above the clouds.

Ayder and Surroundings

Natural and Historical Riches

Ayder is not just a plateau; it is a vast ecosystem waiting to be discovered, surrounded by the plateaus, waterfalls, historic castles, and Kaçkar Mountains National Park located in the Fırtına and Çat Valleys.

Çamlıhemşin

Çamlıhemşin

Doğanın en yeşil tonlarına şahit olun. Çamlıhemşin nerede, nasıl gidilir, gezilecek yerler ve kültürel zenginlikleri hak...

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Kaçkar Dağları Milli Parkı

Kaçkar Dağları Milli Parkı

Türkiye'nin en görkemli zirveleri, 100'den fazla buzul gölü ve eşsiz yaban hayatı. Kaçkar Dağları Milli Parkı'nda trekki...

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Çamlıhemşin Yaylaları

Çamlıhemşin Yaylaları

Ayder, Pokut, Gito ve bilinmeyen saklı cennetler... Çamlıhemşin'in en güzel 18 yaylasını, özelliklerini ve ulaşım detayl...

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Çamlıhemşin Tarihi Yerler

Çamlıhemşin Tarihi Yerler

Fırtına Vadisi sadece doğa değil, derin bir tarih saklar. Zilkale'nin ihtişamı, tarihi Hemşin konaklarının hikayesi ve a...

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Çamlıhemşin Şelaleleri

Çamlıhemşin Şelaleleri

Rize Çamlıhemşin'in en görkemli 3 şelalesini keşfedin. Debisiyle büyüleyen Palovit, en yüksekten dökülen Bulut ve zarafe...

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Ayder Yaylası Heliski

Ayder Yaylası Heliski

Dünyanın en iyi kar kalitesine sahip rotalarından Ayder ve Kaçkar Dağları'nda Heliski heyecanı. Helikopterli kayak nedir...

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Virtual Tour in Ayder

Discover the enchanting atmosphere of Ayder Plateau without even going there.
Thanks to 360° virtual tour technology, you can interactively explore every detail of the region, from Gelin Tülü Waterfall to historic plateau houses. Before planning your Rize vacation, start the virtual tour now to explore Ayder step by step and experience its unique nature right on your screen.

Ayder Photo Gallery

A Brief Summary of the Landscape

A brief summary of the views awaiting you in Ayder Plateau, Fırtına Valley, Çat Valley, and the surrounding plateaus. In reality, there is much more to see.

Gastronomy

Black Sea Food

For those whose appetite is awakened by the oxygen-rich air of the Kaçkar Mountains, Ayder cuisine is a truly unique stop. Discover the Black Sea region’s most famous local flavors, prepared with natural butter, corn flour, and highland cheese, right where they originate and in their freshest form.

Ayder usulü muhlama

Muhlama (Kuymak)

The star of Rize breakfasts. A perfect blend of butter, corn flour, and stringy Kolot cheese. A hot, delicious local fondue you simply must taste while visiting Ayder.

Rize Laz böreği tatlısı

Laz pastry

Named a pastry, but actually a legendary dessert. Layers of hand-rolled dough meet sweet custard and syrup. A unique, light regional treat best enjoyed with tea after a meal.

Ayder kırmızı benekli alabalık

Red-spotted trout

Famous for its taste, raised in the cold waters of Fırtına Creek. Cooked in a tile or pan with plenty of butter, the Red Spotted Trout is the king of dinner in Ayder.

Guide & Routes

Be sure to read this before you come.

We've gathered all the details you need to know before embarking on your journey to Ayder. Where to stay, what to eat, what to do, which roads to take... All the information you need before planning your trip to Ayder is right here.

Winter in Ayder: Snow, Thermal Comfort, and a White Wonderland

Winter in Ayder: Snow, Thermal Comfort, and a White Wonderland

Discover what winter in Ayder Plateau is like. Snow-covered landscapes, thermal springs, quiet atmosphere, and essential tips for a winter getaway in Ayder.

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15 Places to Visit in Ayder: A Nature Paradise from Gelintülü to Zilkale

15 Places to Visit in Ayder: A Nature Paradise from Gelintülü to Zilkale

Discover 15 places to visit in Ayder Plateau. From Gelintülü Waterfall to Zilkale, this guide describes the nature and history routes in Ayder step by step.

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2-Day Ayder Travel Itinerary: A Ready-Made Route for Families

2-Day Ayder Travel Itinerary: A Ready-Made Route for Families

A 2-day family holiday plan for Ayder: This guide includes transportation, places to visit, child-friendly activities, food suggestions, and practical tips.

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