The feeling
Time to return to yourself.
An immersive 5-day private retreat into the alpine wilderness of the Kaçkar Mountains. Walk among cloud inversions in Pokut and Sal plateaus, discover historic stone watchtowers and river gorges along the Fırtına Valley, taste local Black Sea highland gastronomy, and recharge in secluded timber lodges surrounded by ancient temperate rainforests.
Where you will stay
Secluded Alpine Lodges & Wooden Chalets
Day by day
A thoughtful rhythm.
Arrival & The Roaring Fırtına Gorge
Private transfer from Rize-Artvin Airport (RZV) or Trabzon (TZX) into the lush Fırtına Valley. Settle into your boutique riverside wooden chalet. Enjoy a leisurely walk across centuries-old Ottoman stone bridges and savor a welcome dinner featuring warm mıhlama and local trout.
Castles in the Mist & Ancient Boxwood Forests
Morning excursion to Zil Castle, a medieval stone fortress perched high above the gorge. Walk through the ancient moss-covered boxwood forests of the Kaçkar Mountains National Park and visit the roaring cascades of Palovit Waterfall.
Above the Clouds: Pokut & Sal Plateaus
Ascend by 4x4 mountain vehicle to Pokut Plateau (2,050m). Take a scenic ridgeline walking trail to neighboring Sal Plateau, enjoying panoramic views over alpine valleys and witnessing the breathtaking sea of clouds inversion at sunset.
High Pastures: Gito Plateau & Badara Valley
Journey up to Gito Plateau and the tranquil lakeside meadow of Badara. Experience traditional highland hospitality, listen to local tulum (bagpipe) melodies, and enjoy an organic picnic prepared with farm-fresh mountain dairy and herbs.
Highland Tea Gardens & Departure
Morning stroll through hillside artisan tea plantations in Çamlıhemşin. Taste fresh single-origin Black Sea teas before your private chauffeured transfer back to Rize-Artvin or Trabzon Airport.
What is included
- Private roundtrip transfers from Rize-Artvin (RZV) or Trabzon (TZX) Airport
- 4 nights accommodation in handpicked boutique riverside chalets and timber lodges
- Daily artisanal Black Sea breakfast and curated regional welcome dinner
- Dedicated 4x4 mountain vehicles and experienced highland drivers for all excursions
- Licensed expert local wilderness and culture guide throughout the tour
- Admissions to Kaçkar Mountains National Park, Zil Castle, and natural reserves
- Organic highland tastings and private tea workshop in Çamlıhemşin
- All regional road tolls, park entry fees, and private transport
Not included
- Domestic and international flight tickets
- Comprehensive travel and mountain medical insurance
- Lunches and unlisted dinners
- Personal expenses, artisanal hand-knit woolens, and raw forest honey
- Customary gratuities for local guides and highland drivers
Good to know
Questions, answered.
What is the best season to visit the Kaçkar highlands?
June through early October provides accessible plateau roads, blooming alpine meadows, and the highest likelihood of seeing the famous sea of clouds.
Are the mountain roads difficult or rough?
Highland ascents follow unpaved mountain roads. All transfers to high plateaus like Pokut and Gito are handled with specialized 4x4 vehicles and experienced local drivers.
What kind of clothing should I pack?
Highland weather can change rapidly. Layered clothing, a wind- and waterproof outer shell jacket, and sturdy, water-resistant hiking boots with ankle support are essential.
Which airport should I book flights to?
Rize-Artvin Airport (RZV) is the closest hub (~45 mins drive to Fırtına Valley), while Trabzon Airport (TZX, ~1.5 hours drive) is also readily serviced with included private transfers.
