A unique travel guide exploring 10 of the most breathtaking, off-the-beaten- path destinations in the Trabzon Province, far away from the chaotic tourist crowds. This article takes you on a journey to discover abandoned historical villages, virgin alpine pastures, and enchanting mountain lakes that still retain their authentic charm—offering a vivid description that highlights the serene beauty and tranquility of these forgotten sanctuaries.
Welcome. The Turkish province of Trabzon is brimming with treasures that Arab tourism has
yet to fully discover, as most travelers tend to gather predominantly around "Uzungöl" and
"Ayder." In this article, we will cast a spotlight on the most remarkable hidden gems nestled
within the province of Trabzon.
1. Şahinkaya Tepesi (Şahinkaya Peak) – "The Throne of Clouds"
Located in the "Düzköy" region, this is not merely a hill, but a natural masterpiece overlooking a
sheer, profound valley. It stands as the quintessential escape for those seeking absolute serenity
away from the relentless rumble of tour buses. At sunset, the mountains drape themselves in a
magical purple hue, transforming the area into a sanctuary for meditative minds and
photographers looking for captures that cannot be found in commonplace locations.
2. Galyan Vadisi (Galyan Valley) – "Maçka’s Deepest Secret"
While the masses race toward the Sümela Monastery in "Maçka," the Galyan Valley remains
hushed, as if guarding nature's ultimate secrets. Characterized by pristine hiking trails running
parallel to the rushing river and rustic wooden bridges, it is the perfect spot for anyone yearning
to hear the "silence of nature" blended only with the gentle murmur of flowing water, completely
free from human intervention.
3. Santa Harabeleri (The Santa Ruins) – "The Historic Ghost Town"
Perched on the mountainous borders of Trabzon and Gümüşhane, this destination comprises a
cluster of abandoned villages dating back to the 17th century. Its weathered stone houses and
ancient churches, nestled atop misty, cloud-kissed peaks, evoke the striking sensation of
stepping onto a historical movie set. It is an unmissable destination for adventure seekers and
history enthusiasts chasing untold stories.
4. Çakırgöl (Çakırgöl Lake) – "The Mirror of the Sky"
Sitting at an altitude of 2,500 meters, this crystalline volcanic lake demands a bit of effort to
reach, but the reward is unparalleled. Upon arrival, you are greeted by pearlescent blue waters
reflecting the drifting clouds like a mirror placed gently in the lap of the mountain. It is rarely
frequented by tourists, making it a private paradise for those determined to reach it.
5. Alaca Yaylası (Alaca Plateau) – "The Endless Emerald Carpet"
If you believe the "Hıdırnebi" plateau is beautiful, "Alaca" will leave you spellbound with its
untouched, virgin charm. Completely unexploited by commercial tourism, it features an endless
blanket of green grass stretching as far as the eye can see, where livestock graze in absolute
freedom. This is the place to go to savor fresh, organic milk and inhale pure oxygen untainted by
vehicle exhaust.
6. Canik Şelalesi (Canik Waterfall) – "The Hidden Source"
Tucked away near the "Tonya" district, this waterfall may be modest in size, but it is nestled
deep within a dense forest reminiscent of the Amazon. Walking toward the waterfall over small
wooden footbridges makes you feel like an explorer discovering a land where human feet have
never trod before.
7. Kadırga Yaylası (Kadırga Highlands) – "Where Cultures and Clouds Converge"
What truly sets Kadırga apart is its historic "Open-Air Mosque" (built completely without a
roof), where people have gathered to pray under the open sky for hundreds of years. Outside of
festival days, the plateau transforms into a deeply spiritual and majestic realm where low-
hanging clouds brush against the earth with a cool touch, offering unforgettable panoramic
vistas.
8. The Upper Alleys of Soğuksu (Soğuksu Üst Sokakları)
Instead of merely visiting the famous Atatürk Pavilion, we highly recommend wandering into
the elevated alleys of this neighborhood. It is there that you will discover the authentic heartbeat
of Trabzon: historic Ottoman houses, private residential gardens heavy with fruit trees, and
breathtaking views of the Black Sea away from the city center's clamor. It is a genuine journey
into the daily culture of the Turkish people.
9. Aygır Gölü (Lake Aygır) – "The Forgotten Beauty of Haldizen"
Situated near the rugged "Haldizen" highlands, this mountain lake remains intensely cold even
during the height of summer. The rocky, dramatic perimeter of the lake and the absolute
stillness enveloping the area make it an idyllic camping site for those looking to disconnect
entirely from the outside world and establish a direct connection with the starlit night sky.
10. Vazelon Manastırı (Vazelon Monastery) – "The Mysterious Valley Guardian"
While dense crowds swarm the iconic "Sümela" Monastery, the "Vazelon" Monastery slumbers
in profound, absolute isolation amidst the dense, untamed forests of the "Maçka" region.
