Rize Overview
Rize, located in northeastern Turkey, is known for its lush greenery, tea plantations, and scenic landscapes. Nestled between the Black Sea and the Kaçkar Mountains, Rize is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Places to Visit in Rize:
- Ayder Plateau: A beautiful highland known for its hot springs, wooden chalets, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a great place for trekking and relaxing in nature.
- Zilkale: A medieval castle perched on a cliff overlooking the Fırtına Valley, offering stunning views of the valley and mountains.
- Fırtına Valley: Known for its raging river and green surroundings, the valley is perfect for rafting, hiking, and camping.
- Kaçkar Mountains National Park: A popular spot for trekking, mountaineering, and camping, with its rich flora and fauna.
- Rize Castle: Offering panoramic views of Rize and the Black Sea, this castle is a must-see for history lovers.
Local Food in Rize:
- Rize Tea: The city is famous for its tea plantations, and you can enjoy a cup of freshly brewed Rize tea while overlooking the plantations.
- Laz Böreği: A sweet pastry filled with custard, often served with tea.
- Muhlama: A traditional Black Sea dish made from cornmeal, cheese, and butter, similar to fondue.
- Anchovy Dishes (Hamsi): During the season, you’ll find many dishes made with anchovies, including hamsi tava (fried anchovies).
City Transportation:
Rize’s city center is relatively small and can be explored on foot. For longer trips, minibuses (dolmuş) are commonly used for city and intercity travel. Private cars are often used for trips to remote highlands and tourist attractions.
Visiting Rize feels like stepping into a different world compared to other cities in Turkey. The first thing that hits you is the overwhelming greenery—everywhere you look, there are forests, mountains, and tea fields stretching into the distance. The city’s pace is slower, and there’s a calmness in the air that makes it a perfect escape from the bustle of urban life.
One thing that truly sets Rize apart is its connection to nature. Unlike most tourist destinations, the attractions here aren’t man-made; they are gifts of nature like the mist-covered highlands of Ayder or the raw, powerful beauty of Fırtına Valley. If you’re into outdoor activities, rafting in Fırtına River or trekking in the Kaçkar Mountains will leave you feeling exhilarated.
The people of Rize are warm and hospitable, but what makes them unique is their deep attachment to the land and their traditions. In the smaller villages, you’ll often find locals enjoying a simple life, sipping tea, and chatting for hours. It’s not unusual to be invited into a home for a cup of tea, a reflection of the strong sense of community here.
I also loved how Rize felt untouched by mass tourism. The region has retained its authenticity, and even though more tourists are starting to discover it, you still get a sense that you’re experiencing the “real” Black Sea lifestyle.
