Running Kackar by UTMB® will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience, immersing you in the raw beauty of the Kaçkar Mountains. But why limit your adventure to just the race? The Rize province and its surrounding areas offer a wealth of cultural, natural, and culinary delights well worth extending your stay for. Whether you’re looking for relaxation after your run, activities for your support crew, or a deeper dive into this unique corner of Turkey before heading home, there are plenty of things to do in Rize, Turkey. Let’s explore some of the top Rize attractions and activities to help you visit Kackar Mountains and the Black Sea coast more fully.
- Around Ayder Plateau: Relax and Recharge
Even if your Kackar by UTMB accommodation is in Ayder, take time to enjoy the immediate surroundings beyond the race buzz. Ayder Plateau tourism offers:
- Gelintülü Waterfall (Gelin Tülü Şelalesi): This stunning, veil-like waterfall cascades down the mountainside right near the main plateau area. It’s an iconic Ayder sight and easily accessible for photos or just quiet contemplation.
- Thermal Baths (Kaplıcalar): Ayder is famous for its natural hot springs, believed to have healing properties. Many hotels have their own thermal pools or spa facilities, offering the perfect post-race recovery soak. Public bath options may also be available.
- Gentle Walks & Views: Explore the plateau itself, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and perhaps take a gentle walk on lower trails. For panoramic views (weather permitting), consider asking locals about accessible viewpoints like the road towards Huser Yaylası (though reaching the very top usually requires a vehicle).
- Local Flavors: Sit down at a local restaurant and savor traditional Black Sea highland cuisine. Enjoy the unique atmosphere of this mountain hub.
- Adventures in the Fırtına Valley (Fırtına Vadisi)
The valley leading up to Ayder is a destination in itself, packed with Fırtına Valley activities:
- Whitewater Rafting: The Fırtına (Storm) River lives up to its name and is one of Turkey’s premier rafting spots. Numerous operators offer guided rafting trips suitable for various experience levels – a thrilling way to experience the valley from a different perspective.
- Ziplining: Soar across the river and enjoy bird’s-eye views of the valley on one of the many ziplines set up along the main road. A quick, fun activity for an adrenaline boost.
- Historic Ottoman Bridges: The valley is dotted with beautiful, high-arched stone bridges dating back to the Ottoman era. The most famous is Şenyuva Bridge (formerly Çinçiva Köprüsü), offering picturesque views. Seek out others like Mikron Bridge too.
- Zilkale Castle: A must-visit! This stunning medieval castle clings dramatically to a cliff overlooking the Fırtına Valley. Explore its ramparts and imagine its history guarding this strategic route. Requires a short detour off the main Ayder road, but well worth it.
- Palovit Waterfall (Palovit Şelalesi): Located further up a side valley near Zilkale, this powerful waterfall plunges into a lush green canyon. The drive and short walk are scenic.
- Explore Traditional Villages: Wander through charming villages like Şenyuva (near the bridge) to see traditional Black Sea wooden houses (konaklar) and experience local life.
- Venturing Higher: Kaçkar Yaylas (Highland Plateaus)
For a true taste of the high Kackar Mountains beyond the race course (best done pre- or post-race with dedicated time):
- Yayla Tourism: Explore other stunning highland plateaus (yaylas) famous for their unique culture, wooden architecture, and breathtaking views (often above the clouds). Popular choices include:
- Pokut & Sal Yaylası: Often visited together, these neighboring plateaus offer iconic views and traditional lodging. Access roads usually require 4×4 vehicles and local knowledge/drivers.
- Gito Yaylası: Another spectacular plateau known for its scenery and swings overlooking the clouds. Also requires 4×4 access.
- Kavrun Yaylası: A higher plateau serving as a base for serious trekking towards glacial lakes.
- Trekking: The Kaçkars are a trekker’s paradise. Consider guided multi-day treks to glacial lakes like Deniz Gölü or exploring different valleys. Important Note: Serious trekking requires proper planning, gear, potentially guides, and awareness of challenging conditions.
- Discovering Rize City and the Black Sea Coast
Don’t neglect the provincial capital and the coastline:
- Rize Castle (Rize Kalesi): Located centrally in Rize city, the castle offers panoramic views over the city, the Black Sea, and the surrounding tea-covered hillsides.
- Tea Gardens & Plantations: Rize IS tea country! Visit the Ziraat Botanical Tea Garden in Rize city to learn about different tea varieties and enjoy tea with a view. You can also see endless plantations covering the hillsides and potentially visit processing factories (inquire locally).
- Rize Museum: Learn about the region’s history, culture, and the importance of tea through ethnographic displays.
- Black Sea Coastal Drive: Enjoy a drive along the scenic coastal highway (D010), stopping at small fishing towns or enjoying fresh seafood restaurants.
- Culinary Delights: A Taste of the Black Sea
Exploring Rize attractions must include sampling the unique local cuisine:
- Muhlama (or Kuymak): A delicious, must-try dish made from local cornmeal, butter, and cheese (similar to fondue). Perfect mountain comfort food.
- Hamsi (Anchovies): The Black Sea anchovy is a regional staple, prepared in countless ways (fried, grilled, in pilaf, even in bread!).
- Laz Böreği: A unique dessert, a type of milky custard layered between filo pastry, served warm with a dusting of sugar.
- Mısır Ekmeği (Cornbread): A dense, flavorful cornbread often accompanying meals.
- Kara Lahana Çorbası/Sarması (Black Cabbage Soup/Rolls): Hearty dishes made from a local variety of cabbage.
- Local Honey: Especially the famous “Anzer” honey (if you can find/afford it!) or other floral honeys from the highlands.
- Rize Tea: Of course, drink plenty of freshly brewed Rize tea – offered everywhere!
Practical Tips for Exploring:
- Transport: Renting a car provides the most flexibility for exploring the Fırtına Valley, Rize city, and coastal areas. Accessing higher yaylas often requires arranging 4×4 transport locally (ask your hotel or local tour providers).
- Guides: For serious trekking or exploring remote areas, hiring a local guide is highly recommended.
- Weather: Be prepared for changeable weather, even outside the race. Layers are always a good idea.
- Time: Allow ample time for travel between locations, as roads can be winding and slow.
Conclusion:
Your trip for Kackar by UTMB® is an opportunity to discover one of Turkey’s most beautiful and culturally rich regions. From the adrenaline of Fırtına Valley activities and the charm of Ayder Plateau tourism to the history of Rize attractions and the unique flavors of Black Sea cuisine, there are countless things to do in Rize, Turkey. Look beyond the finish line, plan an extra day or two, and make your visit to the Kackar Mountains truly unforgettable.