Ayder Thermal Springs
Natural hot water springs providing publicly accessible thermal baths and wellness facilities; classified as a spa and natural health attraction. Average visit duration: 1–2 hours.
Ayder Plateau Travel Guide – Attractions, Transport, Best Time to Visit
Image by RÜŞTÜ BOZKUŞ
Last update February 12, 2026
Ayder Plateau is a mountainous plateau destination located in Rize Province, within the Black Sea region of Turkey. It lies amidst dense forests and high-altitude pastures in the Eastern Black Sea Mountains. Known for its natural thermal springs and traditional wooden houses, Ayder Plateau is a highland area rather than a city or town. It serves as a regional summer resort and a starting point for mountain trekking activities.
Ayder Plateau Overview
- Location: Rize Province in the Black Sea region, northeastern Turkey
- Primary features: Thermal springs, highland resorts, forest and mountain landscapes
- Time needed: 1-3 days depending on trekking and sightseeing plans
- Best time to visit: June to September (summer) for hiking and mild weather
- Cost level: Low to medium compared to major Turkish cities
- Tourism profile: Nature tourism, hiking, spa and wellness tourism
Reasons Travelers Visit Ayder Plateau
- Natural thermal hot springs used for wellness and spa
- Mountainous forest landscapes featuring endemic Black Sea flora
- Traditional wooden Black Sea architecture and rural culture
- Starting point for trekking and mountain hiking routes
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Ayder Plateau is during the summer months from June to September when weather is mild and snow-free. Winters are cold with heavy snowfall, limiting access and activity options. Spring and autumn have variable weather and higher precipitation. Summer months have low to medium crowd levels.
| Season | Months | Weather | Crowd Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | June–September | Mild, 15-25°C, low precipitation | Low to medium |
| Winter | December–February | Cold, often below 0°C, heavy snow | Very low |
| Spring/Autumn | March–May, October–November | Variable, rain common, 5-15°C | Low |
How to Get There
Ayder Plateau is accessed mainly via Rize city, the nearest major city with road connections and an airport. Transport options include domestic flights, bus services, and driving. Road travel involves mountain routes that can take between 1.5 to 3 hours depending on starting location.
- Fly to Rize–Artvin Airport, then drive or take bus to Ayder (approximately 1.5 hours)
- Bus services connect Rize city to Ayder Plateau
- Car rental is common for flexible travel
From Istanbul
- Domestic flight from Istanbul to Rize–Artvin Airport (approx. 1.5 hours)
- Drive or local bus from Rize to Ayder Plateau (~70 km, 1.5 hours)
- Alternatively, intercity bus from Istanbul to Rize (approx. 18-20 hours), then local transport
From Izmir
- Flight from Izmir to Istanbul then Istanbul to Rize–Artvin Airport (total approx. 3–4 hours including layovers)
- Drive or bus from Rize (1.5 hours) to Ayder Plateau
From Antalya
- Flight from Antalya to Istanbul, then Istanbul to Rize (approx. 3–4 hours total air time plus transfer)
- Drive or bus from Rize to Ayder Plateau (~1.5 hours)
From Ankara
- Flight from Ankara to Istanbul followed by Istanbul to Rize (total approx. 3-4 hours flying plus transfer)
- Drive or bus from Rize to Ayder Plateau (~1.5 hours)
Getting Around
- Local minibus and dolmuş services connect Ayder with nearby towns
- Most visitors walk or use private vehicles for short distances
- Distances among main points within Ayder are walkable, typically under 2 km
- Trekking routes connect Ayder with surrounding highlands requiring hiking
Top Attractions in Ayder Plateau
Kaçkar Mountains
Mountain range adjacent to Ayder offering trekking, alpine meadows, and panoramic views. Classified as a natural site and hiking area. Average visit duration: half day to multiple days for trekking.
Traditional Black Sea Wooden Houses
Architectural structures typical of the region featuring wooden construction and decorative elements. Classified as cultural heritage and architectural interest point. Average visit duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour for walking tours.
Fırtına Valley (Storm Valley)
Valley close to Ayder known for river rafting opportunities, waterfalls, and natural scenery. Classified as a natural and adventure site. Average visit duration: half day to full day depending on activities.
Common Visitor Activities
- Hiking on marked trails in Kaçkar Mountains and surrounding forests
- Bathing and wellness treatments at thermal springs
- Exploring local villages with traditional Black Sea architecture
- Photography of mountain landscapes and rural settings
- River rafting and nature walks in Fırtına Valley
Suggested Ayder Plateau Visit Duration
Visitors can allocate half a day to experience thermal springs and local walks. A full day allows inclusion of short hikes and valley exploration. A 2–3 day visit enables comprehensive trekking in the surrounding mountains and full engagement with local culture and natural sites.
Nearby Destinations
- Rize City – Approx. 70 km, 1.5 hours by car
- Hopa – Approx. 120 km, 2.5 hours by car
- Trabzon – Approx. 160 km, 3.5 hours by car
- Fırtına Valley – Within 15 km, 20 minutes by car
Practical Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Climate | Temperate oceanic with heavy rainfall; mild summers, cold snowy winters at altitude |
| Seasonality notes | Best accessible and safe to visit in June–September; winter access limited by snow |
| Crowd levels | Low to medium in summer; very low in winter and shoulder seasons |
| Constraints or limitations | Mountain roads may be closed or hazardous in winter; limited public transport options locally |
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of travelers visit Ayder Plateau?
Travelers visiting Ayder Plateau include nature enthusiasts, hikers, wellness tourists using thermal springs, and visitors interested in rural Black Sea culture. This destination attracts those seeking outdoor activity and spa experiences rather than urban tourism.
How many days are needed to visit Ayder Plateau?
Visitors can experience key attractions in half a day to one day. For trekking or a more in-depth exploration of natural sites and villages, a 2–3 day visit is recommended. Longer durations allow for remote mountain hiking and full wellness stays.
Is visiting Ayder Plateau safe?
Ayder Plateau is generally safe for tourists. Visitors should take normal mountain travel precautions, especially for hiking and winter weather. Local road conditions may vary seasonally; checking weather and road closures is advisable before travel.
What is the best time to visit Ayder Plateau?
The best time to visit is summer, from June to September, when weather is mild and mountain trails are accessible. Winter months involve snow and road closures, limiting access. Spring and autumn may have rain and colder temperatures affecting travel plans.