Mountains & Dreams in the Hemşin Highlands

Overview
This journey explores the dramatic valleys and high mountain plateaus of the eastern Black Sea region.
Over four days, guests travel through misty valleys, walk along historic migration routes and discover the traditional highland culture of the Hemşin mountains. From remote villages to alpine lakes and cloud-covered plateaus, the experience combines nature, local stories and slow exploration.
The journey invites travellers to step away from the pace of modern life and reconnect with the landscapes and rhythms of the highlands.

Day 1 – Çat Valley & Elevit Plateau
Guests meet at Rize–Artvin Airport and travel towards the lush landscapes of Fırtına Valley.
After a relaxed breakfast stop, we continue to Çamlıhemşin and follow the road into the dramatic Çat Valley, where traditional stone houses, historic bridges and mountain villages appear along the valley slopes.
Our first gentle exploration walk takes place along the Makrevis–Mollaveyis village route.
Later we continue to Elevit Plateau, where we enjoy lunch and a short walk while learning about traditional seasonal migration routes in the highlands.

Dinner and overnight in Çamlıhemşin.

Day 2 – Çinçiva Village, Pokut & Sal Plateaus
After breakfast we travel to Çinçiva (Şenyuva) Village, one of the most picturesque settlements of the valley.
Following a short exploration and coffee break, we continue towards the famous Pokut and Sal plateaus.
A scenic trekking path connects the two plateaus, offering spectacular views across the Kaçkar Mountains. Lunch is served in Sal Plateau.
If conditions allow, we continue our walk along an old migration route towards Pokut Plateau, where traditional wooden houses stand above the cloud line.
In the evening we return to the hotel. After dinner, guests are invited to experience traditional Hemşin and Laz dances, accompanied by the mystical sound of the tulum, the region’s iconic instrument.

Dinner and overnight in Çamlıhemşin.

Day 3 – Avusor Highlands & Sunset in Huser
After breakfast we travel by mountain vehicle to Avusor Plateau at around 2700 metres.
Guests may join an optional walk to a nearby glacial lake, while others can relax in a small highland café and enjoy the alpine landscape.
After lunch we continue to Huser Plateau, famous for its dramatic “sea of clouds”.
As the sun sets over the Kaçkar Mountains, the landscape transforms into shades of gold and crimson — one of the most memorable moments of the journey.
After sunset we descend towards Ayder and return to the hotel.

Dinner and overnight in Çamlıhemşin.

Day 4 – Waterfall Walk & Farewell
After breakfast we travel to Tar Valley for a nature walk to Bulut Waterfall.
This scenic trail leads to one of the most impressive waterfalls of the region, where water cascades down in multiple tiers from a height of around 250 metres.
After the walk we descend to Fırtına River.
For those who wish, an optional rafting experience offers a final adventure before departure.
Later we transfer to Rize–Artvin Airport*, concluding our journey through the highlands.