Slow Tea Experience in the Valleys of Rize

Tea in the Black Sea is not just a drink — it is a rhythm of life. This 5-day journey takes you to the heart of tea: from the fields on the steep slopes of Çamlıhemşin to the first sip brewed in copper teapots.

You will work alongside families who have been growing tea for generations, learn the art of leaf picking and experience traditional roasting techniques. Each day brings a different tea garden, a different story, a different brew.

Day 1 – Arrival & The Story of Tea
Guests meet at Rize–Artvin Airport and travel along the Black Sea coast to the valley of Çağlayan.
After settling into the hotel, we begin with a welcoming breakfast and an introduction to the region’s tea culture.
Later, we visit Abu Ulya tea gardens to gain insight into the history of tea in the region and its place in everyday life.
In the afternoon, a Tea Cocktail Workshop introduces creative ways of working with tea flavors.

Dinner and overnight in Fındıklı.

Day 2 – Harvest & Tea Craft
After breakfast, we travel to the tea gardens to experience the harvesting process.
Participants learn how to pick the delicate “two and a half leaves”, the youngest shoots of the tea plant.
The program continues with a visit to the Tchala Tea workshop, where the production process is observed.
In the afternoon, guests produce their own green tea with guidance from a tea expert, followed by a sensory tea tasting session.

Dinner and overnight in Fındıklı.

Day 3 – Village Walk & Farewell
After breakfast, we walk along the historic Çağlayan village path, passing tea gardens, streams and traditional Laz houses.
A visit to a local village house offers insight into regional culture and everyday life.
Following a final tea break in the village, we return to the hotel.
After lunch and some free time, transfer to the airport for departure.