The Black Sea Region is a world apart, an emerald paradise of misty forests, towering mountains, and tea plantations sloping down to deep, dark waters. Here, luxury moves away from urban glamour to embrace the exclusivity of unspoiled nature and ancient traditions. It is the ideal destination for those seeking an experiential journey among monasteries suspended in the air and highlands where time seems to have stood still.

Sumela Monastery and Rize Highlands

The Sumela Monastery, perched on a cliff face in Altindere National Park, is one of the most striking sights in the world; we recommend visiting early in the morning when mist envelops the peaks, creating a magical atmosphere. The Ayder highlands and Firtina valley in Rize offer alpine scenery where you can stay in luxury wooden chalets, surrounded by waterfalls and fragrant tea gardens.

Trabzon and Amasya: History and Myths

Trabzon, a port city on the Silk Road, preserves the beautiful Hagia Sophia (mosque) with Byzantine frescoes. Inland, Amasya will enchant you with the Pontic King Tombs carved into the rock and historic Ottoman houses reflecting in the Yesilirmak River. Walking along the river at night, when the tombs are illuminated, is an unforgettable experience.

Gastronomy: Tea, Honey, and Sea Freshness

The Black Sea is the home of Turkish tea and highly prized Anzer honey. The local cuisine is unique: try Muhlama (a cheese and cornmeal fondue) and the famous anchovies (Hamsi) prepared in dozens of ways. Here, product freshness is law, and dining in a 'yayla' (plateau) with freshly baked bread and mountain butter is the luxury of simplicity.

Top 5 Luxury and Boutique Hotels

• Radisson Blu Hotel – Trabzon: Modern comfort with a breathtaking view of the Black Sea.
• Ramada Plaza by Wyndham – Trabzon: Contemporary luxury and excellent services.
• Bab-ı Ali Mansion – Amasya: Charming hotel in a restored Ottoman mansion.
• Haşimoğlu Hotel – Ayder: A mountain chalet with spa services surrounded by greenery.
• Ricosta Hotel – Rize: Seafront excellence with private access.

Where to Eat: Top 3 Restaurants

• Cemilusta (Trabzon): Famous for its meatballs (Akçaabat Köfte) and traditional dishes.
• Liman Lokantası (Rize): To taste the best fresh fish on the coast.
• Amaseia Mutfağı (Amasya): Local cuisine in a refined historical setting.

Official Links

• Go Türkiye Official Portal