A 4-Night Hotel Accommodation Black Sea Tour by Plane

Plateaus, Waterfalls, and a Journey Woven with History from Giresun to Gümüşhane On the first day of our tour, we begin an unforgettable journey accompanied by the lush green nature of the Black Sea, its cool plateaus, and deep-rooted Anatolian culture. During the night, we arrive at Sabiha Gökçen Airport at 03:30 with our new-type chip ID cards in order to complete our baggage and check-in procedures. With Ajet Airlines’ scheduled 05:25 flight, we enjoy a pleasant journey to Ordu. After our flight, which will take approximately 1.5 hours, we arrive at Ordu–Giresun Airport and begin our Black Sea exploration with the vehicle waiting for us. After having our breakfast of local delicacies with guests who wish to join us (extra), we head toward the plateau region via Giresun’s Dereli district. One of our first stops, Blue Lake, welcomes us as one of the hidden beauties of the Black Sea with its turquoise color. Afterwards, we visit the Göksu Travertines, which nature has created in a cotton-like appearance, and take a photo break amid unique views. Then we arrive at Kümbet Plateau, one of the finest examples of Black Sea plateau culture. During our free time on the plateau, which stands out with its lush nature and clean air, you can taste milk rice pudding with mastic gum, a local specialty; guests who wish may also experience dishes prepared in local butcher shops. After our plateau visit, we cross the Eğribel Pass and reach the historic Tamzara Neighborhood, part of Şebinkarahisar. Located at an altitude of approximately 2050 meters and having preserved its historical texture to the present day, this former Greek settlement welcomes us with stone houses, narrow streets, and traces of traditional life. Here, we have the chance to drink from the Mind Water, which local people believe to have healing properties. After seeing Alucra panoramically along our route, we enter the borders of Gümüşhane. We visit Tomara Waterfall, one of the region’s most impressive natural beauties (entrance fee extra). In this natural wonder located within the national park area, we feel the soothing atmosphere of nature while watching the waterfall’s enchanting view from the glass terrace. After this beautiful day filled with nature, history, and local culture, we settle into our hotel in Gümüşhane. Dinner and accommodation at our hotel. Food and Beverage Information: Breakfast: Will be taken at a suitable restaurant in Ordu (Extra/Optional) Lunch: Will be taken during free time at Kümbet Plateau (Extra/Optional) Dinner: Will be served at the hotel as a set menu or open buffet (Included in the tour price) Accommodation: Gümüşhane / Trabzon Hotels such as Çimenler Hotel, Gümüş Hotel, Ramada Gümüşhane Hotel, Bayrak Grand Hotel, Sümela Holiday Hotel, and similar hotels.

On the second day of our tour, from The Underground Art Gallery of Nature to the Unique Valleys of the Black Sea, after the breakfast we will have at our hotel, we begin an unforgettable day amid the Black Sea’s lush nature, historical heritage, and impressive highland views. Our first stop is Karaca Cave, regarded as one of the most impressive caves not only in Turkey but in the world as well. Considered “one of the caves with the richest dripstone formations in the world,” Karaca Cave resembles a natural underground art gallery with its stalactites, stalagmites, columns, drapery travertines, and dripstone pools formed over thousands of years. While learning about the cave’s formation process through our guide’s explanations, we enjoy a pleasant exploration thanks to its high oxygen level and refreshing atmosphere. Important Note: Karaca Cave may be closed to visitors periodically due to maintenance and renovation works. If the cave is closed, our program will alternatively be carried out with a visit to the Torul Glass Terrace. After our visit to Karaca Cave, we continue our journey amid the enchanting views of the Zigana Mountains. Having hosted caravan routes, military crossings, and trade routes throughout history, Zigana Pass is one of the most important natural passes connecting Eastern Anatolia and the Black Sea. Along the way, in this unique landscape where rugged mountain silhouettes give way to lush forests, we have the opportunity to observe nature’s changing face. Our next stop is Hamsiköy, whose view among the mists resembles postcards. Located at the foothills of the Zigana Mountains, this charming village is especially known for Hamsiköy rice pudding, which has gained fame across Turkey. During the break we will take here, our guests who wish can taste the famous rice pudding (extra) and take photos amid the unique mountain views. After our visit to Hamsiköy, we turn our route toward Maçka and arrive at Altındere National Park, one of the Black Sea’s most important natural protected areas. After the journey we will make along the Coşandere Valley by minibuses (extra), we complete an approximately 350-meter walking trail and reach Sumela Monastery, built like an eagle’s nest on the steep cliffs of Mount Karadağ. Dating back to the fourth century, this magnificent structure holds great importance both in the history of Christianity and in Black Sea culture. Through our guide’s explanations, we tour the parts of the monastery open to visitors; we have the chance to photograph the historic frescoes, rock architecture, and the mesmerizing view dominating the valley. After our visit to Sumela Monastery, we go to our restaurant to taste Akçaabat Meatballs, one of the most famous flavors of Black Sea cuisine. Guests who wish may have their lunch here for an extra fee. After our meal break, following the Of – Çaykara route, we head toward Uzungöl, which has become a symbol of the Black Sea. Along the way, we take a shopping break where we can closely get to know the handicrafts unique to Trabzon. We stop briefly at a shop where you can see and buy traditional handmade products such as Trabzon bracelets, filigree, and kazaz weaving. When we arrive at Uzungöl, dense forests surrounding the lake, wooden highland houses, suspension bridges, and the soothing atmosphere of nature welcome us. During the free time we will have here, you may walk around the lake, enjoy the scenery, and feel the Black Sea’s unique nature up close. For those who wish, there is an opportunity to join the Lustra and Karaster Plateaus Tour, organized as an extra activity. As we ascend by minibuses to an altitude of approximately 2400 meters, we take photo breaks at viewpoints; by making short walks on the plateau roads, we get the chance to watch Uzungöl from a bird’s-eye view. Guests who do not join the extra tour may spend their free time in Uzungöl. At the end of the day, we depart from Uzungöl and head to our hotel. Dinner and overnight stay at our hotel. Food and Beverage Information: Breakfast: Will be served at the hotel as a set menu or open buffet (included in the tour price) Lunch: Will be taken at a suitable restaurant in Trabzon (extra/optional) Dinner: Will be served at the hotel as a set menu or open buffet (included in the tour price) Accommodation: Trabzon / Golden Inn Hotel, Çaykara Park Hotel, Grand Çaykaram Hotel, Royal Comfort Hotel, Arsen Hotel, Bayrak Grand Hotel, Grand 464 Hotel, Rhisos Gold Hotel and similar hotels.

Accommodation: Terzioğlu Hotel, Sarp Hotel etc...

We begin the third day of our tour, from the Storm Valley to the Sea of Clouds in the Heart of the Black Sea, with breakfast at our hotel. In the morning, we first visit the Rize Cloth Workshop, one of the important symbols of Black Sea culture. Here, we learn about the region’s traditional weaving culture and have the opportunity to closely observe the production stages of Rize cloth. Guests who wish may also shop for local products. Then we head to Ayder Plateau, one of the first places that comes to mind when the Black Sea is mentioned. Located at an altitude of approximately 1350 meters, Ayder Plateau is one of the most special regions of the Black Sea with its lush green nature, thermal springs, and unique atmosphere. Here, we see Gelintülü Waterfall and Horon Plain, and we are given free time to enjoy the plateau atmosphere. After our visit to Ayder, we continue toward Ardeşen and arrive at our facility located on the shore of the Storm Valley. During the free time we will have here, guests who wish may have lunch featuring regional delicacies at an extra cost. You may also have the chance to try Laz böreği, one of the indispensable flavors of Black Sea cuisine. After our meal break, fun-filled activities begin for adrenaline and nature enthusiasts. The zipline activity offered as an extra on the Storm Creek, with a course approximately 10 meters high and 400 meters long, provides exciting moments. Guests who wish may join the extra rafting activity, which lasts about 1.5 hours, accompanied by expert instructors, and experience an unforgettable adventure on the lively waters of the Black Sea. In addition, we have the chance to make our day even more colorful with the extra giant swing and ATV safari activities. After the enjoyable moments, we arrive in Çamlıhemşin. In this region, one of the most special nature spots of the Black Sea, we transfer to our minibuses with guests who wish to join our extra plateau tours. Plateau tours, to be carried out depending on weather conditions and sufficient participation, offer the chance to discover the purest and most impressive nature of the Black Sea. 1. Plateau Tour Package Çinçiva Village (Şenyuva) – Palovit Waterfall – Zilkale – Boxwood Forests – Elevit Plateau On this tour, we visit Şenyuva (Çinçiva) Village, one of the most iconic points of the Storm Valley. In the area that attracts attention with its stone arch bridges, wooden houses, and authentic village atmosphere, we take pleasant walks and capture unique photos. Then we see Palovit Waterfall, one of the strongest waterfalls in the Black Sea. Afterwards, we observe the historic Zilkale, which stands out with its commanding position over the valley, panoramically; passing through the Boxwood Forests, considered one of the world’s most special ecosystems, we arrive at Elevit Plateau. We take enjoyable breaks where we can fully experience the plateau atmosphere. 2. Plateau Tour Package Çinçiva Village (Şenyuva) – Zilkale – Pokut Plateau – Sal Plateau In our alternative plateau tour, we again start with Şenyuva Village and then visit the historic Zilkale. After that, we go up to Pokut Plateau, which has one of the most impressive views of the Black Sea. In this plateau, famous for its sea of clouds view, we feel the enchanting atmosphere of nature and take unique photos. Our tour continues with a visit to Sal Plateau, which preserves its natural texture and stands out with its postcard-like scenery. Guests who do not wish to join the extra plateau tours may spend free time in Çamlıhemşin. We especially recommend the plateau tours to our guests who want to see the nature of the Black Sea in its most impressive form. After this beautiful day full of nature, adventure, and Black Sea culture, we head to our hotel. Dinner and accommodation are at our hotel. Food and Beverage Information: Breakfast: Will be served at the hotel as a set menu or open buffet (included in the tour price) Lunch: Will be served at the facility in the Storm Valley (extra/optional) Dinner: Will be served at the hotel as a set menu or open buffet (included in the tour price) Accommodation: Rize / Patulya Hotel, Oris Green Hotel, Çay Butik Hotel, Huzur Konak Hotel, Zafran Hotel, Ceymakçur Zafran Hotel, Doğra Resort Hotel, Oris Hotel, Natura Hotel and similar hotels.

Accommodation: Pınar Butik Hotel, Çayeli Sahil Hotel, Hilaz Otel, Kolegon Hotel etc...

We begin the fourth day of our Karadeniz to the Caucasus, Batumi’s Colorful World Tour with the breakfast we will have at our hotel. Today’s program awaits us with a special route where we will see the unique nature of the Black Sea together with the modern face of Caucasian culture.

In the morning, with our guests who wish to join, we head toward Karagöl, known as the “hidden paradise” for its natural beauty, located within the borders of Borçka district of Artvin, for our Borçka Karagöl extra tour (extra). In Borçka, we will transfer to minibuses and set off for our Karagöl excursion. Formed as a landslide-dammed lake, Karagöl offers its visitors a natural beauty where time seems to stand still, with its dense forest cover surrounding it, silence, and soothing atmosphere. Guests who do not wish to join this extra tour may spend free time in Borçka town center. After our visit to Karagöl, we return to Borçka by minibuses and continue to our vehicle. After this pleasant nature-filled visit, we reach the Sarp Border Gate via Hopa and, after completing our identity procedures, enter Georgia. We begin our journey toward Batumi, located on the eastern coast of the Black Sea and notable for its modern structure. First, we head to the Makhuntseti region near Batumi. Here we visit an authentic wine house (Adjarian Wine House), where we can closely learn about wine production, one of the most important traditions of Georgian culture. Guests who wish may taste Georgian wines and shop (entrance fee extra). Then we see the historic Makhuntseti Stone Bridge, thought to have been built during the reign of Georgian Queen Tamar. After that, we take a short walk and photo break at Makhuntseti Waterfall, located amid lush green nature. We enjoy pleasant moments accompanied by the waterfall’s cool atmosphere and the soothing sound of nature. After our Makhuntseti visit, we head to Batumi city center and begin our city tour. On the way, we see panoramically Gonio Fortress, located on the Black Sea coast and notable for its history dating back to the Roman period. When we arrive in the city center, our first stop is Europe Square. Here, our guide provides information about the Medea Statue, one of the important figures of Caucasian mythology. Next, we move to Piazza Square, one of Batumi’s most enjoyable spots. We allow free time in the square, which stands out with its Europe-like architecture, cafés, and lively atmosphere. Continuing our tour, we visit Saint Nicholas Church, which is still open for worship. Then at Theatre Square, we see the Poseidon Statue, the historic theater building, and the Cathedral of the Virgin Mary. We panoramically view the Alphabet Tower, one of Batumi’s symbols and dedicated to the Georgian alphabet, and take a photo break. Our next stop is the Ali & Nino Statue on Batumi’s beach, famous for its stories. We take photos in front of this impressive statue, notable for its moving structure, and feel the pleasant atmosphere of Batumi Boulevard. After our city tour, we check in to our hotel. Guests who wish may join the Georgian Night program with dinner, organized as an extra in the evening. An unforgettable night awaits us with live music, local folk dances, and the special flavors of Georgian cuisine. Guests who do not wish to join the Georgian Night program may spend the evening freely in Batumi city center. Accommodation at our hotel in Batumi. Food and Beverage Information: Breakfast: Will be Served at the Hotel as Set Menu or Open Buffet (Included in the Tour Price) Lunch: Will be Taken During Free Time in Batumi (Extra/Optional) Dinner: Will be Taken at the Georgian Night Organized in Batumi (Extra/Optional) Accommodation: Batumi / La Quinta by Wyndham Batumi, Marina Club Batumi, Euphoria Hotel Batumi, Grand Bellagio Batumi and similar hotels.

Important Information – Batumi Border Crossing Under the agreement between Turkey and Georgia, entry to Batumi can only be made with a new chip-enabled photo ID card with a T.C. identity number or a passport. Crossing with a driver’s license, institutional ID card, etc. is absolutely not possible. (It is not possible to enter Georgia with old-style population ID cards.) It is mandatory for our guests to carry their new-type photo T.C. identity cards during the trip. For guests under 18, if they are not traveling with both mother and father, a notarized consent letter is mandatory. In addition, photos must be present on the IDs of all child and infant passengers. The overseas departure fee that may apply during Batumi exit procedures will be covered by the guest. For all T.C. citizens entering Georgia, it has become mandatory to obtain overseas travel health insurance with a minimum coverage of 30,000 EUR. The insurance document may be presented physically or digitally. (INCLUDED IN THE TOUR PRICE)

On the final day of our tour, after the breakfast we will have at our hotel, we head to the Sarp Border Gate. We give free time for customs procedures and shopping at the Free Shop, then enter Turkey. Before saying goodbye to the green of the Black Sea, we travel to Çayeli district of Rize. We will carry out our Çeçeva Village (Haremtepe) tour, which has gained fame in recent years through TV series, films, and commercials. This excursion, which we will take with local minibuses, is included in the tour price. As we move among the lush tea gardens that give the feeling of being endless, we witness one of the most iconic views of the Black Sea. During the photo breaks we will take among the tea fields stretching step by step, we have the opportunity to capture unforgettable shots. After our Çeçeva visit, we will see Rize Castle panoramically and give a short free time for lunch. Afterwards, we stop by our shop where we will get to know the Black Sea’s Sürmene Knives and can shop for knives. Later in the day, we take a short break at a local shopping store where we can find products such as local butter, honey, kolot cheese, and corn flour. Then, to discover the story of tea, which is indispensable to the Black Sea, we go to the tea production facility. Here we experience tea picking, taste loose and flavored tea varieties, and complete our shopping. After time filled with local products, we will go to our restaurant for an extra meal break. After our meal break, we head to Trabzon city center. Here, we first visit Atatürk Mansion. This historic mansion, gifted to Atatürk by the people of Trabzon, stands out with its architecture and details that shed light on the period. Afterwards, accompanied by our guide’s explanations, we listen to Trabzon Hagia Sophia Museum panoramically and get to know the historical and cultural fabric of the region more closely. In the evening, we arrive at Trabzon Airport and, to leave one last memory of our enjoyable Black Sea trip, we take our group photo in front of the airport and bid farewell to our guide and captain. After completing baggage and ticket procedures at the airport, we begin our return journey with AJet Airlines’ scheduled 21:20 Trabzon – Sabiha Gökçen flight. Having completed this special tour filled with the unique nature, plateaus, culture, and unforgettable memories of the Eastern Black Sea, we bid farewell to you until we meet again on another organization. Food and Drink Information: Breakfast: Will be served at the hotel as a set menu or open buffet (Included in the tour price) Lunch: Will be taken during free time in Rize or Trabzon (Extra/Optional) Dinner: Return day dinner planning will be arranged upon request (Extra/Optional) Accommodation: There is no accommodation on the return day.

Accommodation: There is no accommodation tonight.