Why visit
- A completely different Turkey: lush, dramatic and cool.
History and identity
- A medieval Greek and later Trapezuntine empire centre on the Black Sea, with Sümela Monastery clinging to the cliffs.
Top things to see
- Sümela Monastery
- Uzungöl
- Boztepe
- Tea country
How much time to spend
- 2–3 days including Sümela and Uzungöl day trips.
How to get there
- Fly to TZX. Local minibuses (dolmuş) and rental car for the highlands.
Food nearby
- Kuymak
- Akçaabat köfte
- Black Sea pide
Practical tips
- Weather changes quickly.
- A car or local driver helps.
Best time to visit
- June to September gives the easiest mountain access.
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