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TRgezi

53 · City guide

Rize

City of tea, yaylas and the Kaçkars

Rize stretches along a narrow coastal strip between the steep valleys that descend from the Kaçkar Mountains to the Black Sea. Tea growing, which spread from the mid-20th century, shapes the province's economy and landscape; from the Ziraat Botanical Tea Garden in the city center and from Rize Castle, you can take in the tea slopes and the coast together. Inland, the Fırtına Valley, stretching to Çamlıhemşin, is famous for its historic stone arch bridges and Zilkale, which overlooks the valley; Ayder Yaylası in the upper valley, with its waterfall and hot springs, is the gateway to Kaçkar Mountains National Park. Anzer Yaylası in İkizdere is known for its honey made from medicinal herbs. Hemşin culture, seasonal migrations to the yaylas and the horon dance accompanied by the tulum (bagpipe) live on vividly at the province's summer festivals.

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Practical information

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Note
Roads to the high yaylas may close in winter; yayla roads are narrow and winding, so check the weather before setting out
Climate
One of Türkiye's rainiest provinces; fog and rain are common even in summer
Best time
June–September; yayla festivals take place in summer, and the tea harvest runs from May to October
Getting there
Rize–Artvin Airport is in Pazar district, about 34 km from central Rize; Trabzon Airport is a nearby alternative; the coastal road connects to Trabzon and Hopa
Getting around
The castle, museum and tea garden in the center are close together; for Ayder and the yaylas, take the Ardeşen–Çamlıhemşin road by minibus or private vehicle