The Rize: Ayder Tour & Kackar Mountains & Firtina Valley offers an immersive exploration of Turkey’s natural wonders. Visitors can witness the cascading Eskitoklu Waterfall, indulge in rafting and ziplining, and discover the picturesque village of Ayder. From the historic Kale (Hala) Köprüsü bridge to the opportunity to interact with skilled local artisans, this tour promises a well-rounded experience. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure or cultural enrichment, the Rize tour provides a compelling gateway to the region’s captivating sights and traditions.
Key Points
- The Rize tour provides a guided exploration of the Kackar Mountains, Firtina Valley, and the picturesque village of Ayder.
- Highlights of the tour include admiring the natural beauty of the Kackar Mountains National Park and the Firtina Valley.
- Visitors can enjoy the unique lifestyle and culture near the Black Sea, including learning about local crafts and traditions.
- The tour includes activities such as sightseeing, rafting, and zipline experiences, offering a well-rounded introduction to the region.
- Stops along the tour include the Eskitoklu Waterfall, Pınar Butik Otel, the historic Kale (Hala) Köprüsü, and the renowned Zaimoğlu Rize Bezleri textile workshop.
Tour Overview
The tour offers a guided exploration of Rize, the Kaçkar Mountains, and the Fırtına Valley, lasting approximately 9 hours with pickup and drop-off service available.
Visitors will admire the natural beauty of the Kaçkar Mountains National Park and learn about the lifestyle near the Black Sea. The highlight of the tour is the incredible Fırtına Valley.
Along the way, the itinerary includes stops at the Eskitoflu Waterfall, Pınar Butik Otel & Rafting, and the historic Kale (Hala) Köprüsü.
Participants will also have free time and shopping opportunities in the town of Ayder.
The tour price includes the guide and national park bus entrance fee, but excludes food, drinks, and activity fees like zipline, swing, and rafting.
Highlights
Exploring the natural beauty of Kaçkar Mountains National Park and immersing visitors in the unique lifestyle near the Black Sea are the highlights of this tour.
Travelers will admire the incredible Fırtına Valley, surrounded by the majestic Kaçkar peaks. They’ll learn about the local culture and traditions, gaining insight into how people live in this remote region.
The tour provides an opportunity to witness the stunning Eskitoklu Waterfall and explore the charming village of Ayder, with its traditional wooden houses and friendly locals.
Eskitoglu Waterfall
Situated along the tour route, Eskitoglu Waterfall offers visitors a 30-minute photo stop to capture its cascading beauty.
The waterfall, nestled in the lush greenery of the Kackar Mountains, is a popular spot for nature enthusiasts.
As you approach the waterfall, you’ll be greeted by the soothing sound of rushing water and the refreshing mist in the air.
Take your time to explore the area, snap some photos, and soak in the serene atmosphere.
Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or simply appreciate the natural wonders of the region, Eskitoglu Waterfall is a must-see during your Rize tour experience.
Pınar Butik Otel & Rafting
After admiring the natural splendor of Eskitoglu Waterfall, the tour continues to Pınar Butik Otel & Rafting, where visitors can partake in sightseeing, rafting, and zipline activities for approximately 45 minutes.
This stopover offers a chance to experience the thrilling outdoor pursuits of the region. Guests can go rafting down the rushing Fırtına River, which winds through the dramatic Kackar Mountains, or soar above the lush valley on a zipline.
The sightseeing component allows travelers to take in the stunning vistas and get a feel for the local lifestyle. This diverse array of activities provides a well-rounded introduction to the natural wonders and adventure sports available in the Rize area.
Ayder
The tour next ventures into Ayder, where travelers spend approximately 2 hours exploring the area’s highlights. During this time, visitors can freely wander the picturesque village, admiring its traditional architecture and seeing the local culture. The tour guide provides insights into the lifestyle and customs of the people living in the Black Sea region.
| Ayder Highlights | Description |
|---|---|
| Traditional Architecture | Wooden houses and buildings reflecting regional design |
| Local Crafts | Handmade textiles, ceramics, and other artisanal products |
| Culinary Delights | Sampling local dishes and beverages like Rize tea |
| Outdoor Activities | Hiking, horseback riding, and exploring the natural surroundings |
The leisurely time in Ayder allows travelers to gain a deeper appreciation for the unique character of this Black Sea community.
Kale (Hala) Köprüsü
Next, the tour makes a quick 10-minute photo stop at the Kale (Hala) Köprüsü, a historic stone bridge spanning the Fırtına River.
This picturesque landmark, dating back to the 19th century, offers visitors a chance to capture the scenic landscape and admire the craftsmanship of the region’s traditional architecture.
The bridge’s sturdy stone construction and graceful arches make it a popular spot for photographers and sightseers.
Travelers can snap photos of the bridge, the surrounding mountains, and the flowing river below before continuing on to the next stop on the itinerary.
Zaimoğlu Rize Bezleri
Following the stop at the historic Kale (Hala) Köprüsü, the tour takes visitors to the Zaimoğlu Rize Bezleri, where they can enjoy a 25-minute break and browse local shops.
This popular shopping destination offers a chance to explore traditional Rize textiles, including the region’s renowned bezels – intricate, handwoven fabrics prized for their unique patterns and quality.
Visitors can browse a variety of bezel products, from clothing to home decor items, and interact with the skilled local artisans who preserve this centuries-old weaving tradition.
This shopping stop provides a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Rize region and allows travelers to bring home authentic souvenirs.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a knowledgeable tour guide, and the necessary national park bus entrance fee.
However, it excludes the costs of any optional activities like zipline, swing, or rafting, as well as food and drinks during the tour. This means travelers have the flexibility to choose which activities they want to partake in and can budget accordingly.
The tour covers the highlights of the region, including the natural beauty of the Kackar Mountains National Park and the stunning Firtina Valley, while providing travelers with an opportunity to learn about the local lifestyle near the Black Sea.
The tour’s structure allows for a well-rounded experience within the 9-hour duration.
Recap
The Rize: Ayder Tour & Kackar Mountains & Firtina Valley offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Visitors can enjoy the local lifestyle, witness stunning landscapes, and engage with skilled artisans.
With a range of activities, from sightseeing to rafting, this tour provides a well-rounded experience within a compact duration, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to discover the highlights of the Kackar Mountains and Firtina Valley.
