Hamsikoy Village... A Small Paradise in the Heart of Trabzon's Mountains
19-08-2025
Hamsiköy Village is considered one of Trabzon’s tourism icons, where clouds embrace the lush Zigana Mountains, offering a magical escape far from the noise of everyday life. Discover the secret of this village, world-famous for its delicious rice pudding (Sütlaç), and enjoy the untouched landscapes of northern Turkey filled with waterfalls and dense forests.
In this guide by FGI Travel, we take you on a comprehensive journey to explore the best activities, how to get there, and the most beautiful bungalows in Hamsiköy for an unforgettable experience in the heart of nature.
How to Reach Hamsiköy Village in Trabzon
Hamsiköy is located on the slopes of the Zigana Mountains, about 50 km from the center of Trabzon. In addition to its proximity to the city, the village enjoys a strategic location, making it a great starting point to explore other nearby attractions. For example, Uzungöl is approximately 141 km away from the village.
To reach Hamsiköy from Trabzon, you can use public transportation such as buses or rent a car, with the journey taking about an hour via the main road. You can also take advantage of FGI Travel’s car rental service, which provides professional drivers and comfortable vehicles to make your trip easier. If you are coming from Uzungöl, you can take the D010/E70 highway connecting the two locations, with the drive taking roughly two and a half hours.
The Secret of “Sütlaç” (Rice Pudding): Why Tourists Travel Thousands of Miles to Taste It
You may visit Hamsiköy for its nature, but you will leave talking about the Sütlaç. This seemingly simple dish has become the village’s signature, and its name is now associated with Hamsiköy throughout Turkey. The secret is not only in the ingredients but also in the traditional method preserved by local families for decades.
Sütlaç in Hamsiköy is prepared using fresh milk from the surrounding mountain pastures, giving it a rich, creamy texture and a naturally distinct flavor. It is slowly cooked over low heat for hours, then served in clay dishes with a golden-baked top that makes it truly special.
The most important part: the experience itself is part of the taste. Eating a warm rice pudding while surrounded by the mist of the Zigana Mountains and lush green scenery transforms the dish into a memory. That’s why many tourists make a special stop in Hamsiköy just to taste it, even if the village wasn’t originally on their travel plan.
What Tourist Activities Should You Try in Hamsiköy, Trabzon?
In Hamsiköy, nature is not just a backdrop—it is the activity itself. The village offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, allowing you to start your day full of energy and end it with a peaceful moment among the clouds.
Ziplining and Mountain Adventures for Families and Youth
Ziplining in Hamsiköy gives you a direct view of green valleys and mountain slopes in a short but thrilling experience. Suitable for both youth and families, the activity is fully equipped with safety measures and supervised by trained staff.
If heights aren’t your thing, you can enjoy the glass platforms overlooking the mountains or spend a relaxing time at the mountain cafés scattered along the slopes.
Hiking and Camping Among the Clouds: A Photographer’s Paradise
Hiking in Hamsiköy is an experience on its own. Mountain trails pass through forests and open meadows, and the higher you go, the more the clouds surround you from every direction.
The area is perfect for photography enthusiasts, especially in the early morning when mist blankets the peaks. Camping offers a peaceful night amidst nature, where you can steal moments of magic under the open sky and enjoy a stunning sunrise over the Zigana Mountains.
Horseback Safari in the Northern Turkish Meadows
For those seeking a unique experience, a horseback safari adds a special dimension to the visit. Riding through the green meadows gives you a sense of harmony with nature, away from paved roads and noise. The tours are suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike and are often guided by local experts who know the best trails and viewpoints.
Nearby Attractions to Hamsiköy… How to Hit Two Birds with One Stone?
Hamsiköy’s charm isn’t just in its beauty—it’s also in its strategic location near Trabzon’s top attractions. You can easily combine multiple destinations in a single day, enjoying nature, history, and adventure without long trips.
Sumela Monastery: The Cliffside Historical Fortress
Just a short distance from Hamsiköy lies Sumela Monastery, one of the most famous historical landmarks in Northern Turkey. Built on a steep cliff within Altındere National Park, it offers a breathtaking view.
Visiting Sumela is a complete historical and visual journey. The path to the monastery winds through dense forests, and upon arrival, you’ll marvel at the extraordinary architecture carved into the mountain, along with ancient frescoes that tell stories spanning centuries.
Zigana Mountain & Karaca Cave: A Journey from Underground to Peaks
If you love diverse natural experiences, combine Zigana Mountain and Karaca Cave in one day. Zigana Mountain offers panoramic views of green peaks and winding mountain roads, perfect for photos or enjoying the fresh, cool air.
Karaca Cave, on the other hand, takes you to a completely different underground world, with stalactite formations and small lakes shaped over thousands of years. The cave’s lighting highlights the rock details beautifully, making the visit a unique experience blending science and natural beauty.
With this plan, you can start your morning among Hamsiköy’s clouds and end your day deep underground, experiencing multiple adventures in a single trip.
For an even more magical journey in Northern Turkey, check out our article A Journey Among the Clouds: Discover the Beauty of Hıdırnebi in Northern Turkey.
The Best Hotels and Rural Bungalows in Hamsiköy 2026
When planning your stay in Hamsiköy, you can choose between hotels with panoramic mountain views or bungalow cabins that offer complete privacy and a warm, rustic atmosphere amidst nature. You can check available accommodations and book the hotel that suits you through FGI Travel before your trip.
Here is a selection of the most popular accommodations near the heart of the village:
Boutique Hotels with Panoramic Views
– Hamsiköy Seyirtepe Boutique Hotel & Restaurant: One of the most popular options in Hamsiköy, offering panoramic mountain views and an excellent location surrounded by lush nature.
– Alya Teras Hotel - Hamsiköy: A highly rated hotel with an elegant atmosphere and a viewing terrace, suitable for families and couples.
– Lifora House: A peaceful spot with mountain views, highly praised by guests.
Bungalow Cabins for Complete Privacy
If you want a quieter stay and to immerse yourself in nature, away from traditional hotels, bungalows are an excellent choice:
– Trabzon Hamsiköy Bungalow: A highly rated bungalow offering privacy and mountain views close to the village.
– Hamsiköy Valley Bungalow: Ideal for those seeking a natural setting closer to the rural road.
– Hamsiköy Huzur Bungalow: A small cabin with high privacy and a peaceful atmosphere amidst green nature.
These options range from elegant boutique hotels with stunning views to wooden bungalows that provide a true rural experience in the heart of nature, making Hamsiköy a complete accommodation experience in northern Turkey.
For a closer look at this experience, you can check out our YouTube playlist featuring the most beautiful bungalows in Northern Turkey
FGI Travel Experts’ Tips for a Perfect Trip to Hamsiköy
- Choosing the Right Clothing:
Even in summer, the highland climate in Hamsiköy tends to be cool, especially in the mornings and evenings. Make sure to bring a light jacket or warm clothing. - Ready for Photography:
Moving fog, green meadows, and mountain peaks offer exceptional shots. Ensure your phone battery is full or bring a high-quality camera. - Preparing for Mountain Trails:
If you plan to hike or bike, carry a light backpack, enough water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes suitable for mountain terrain. - Exploring Nearby Villages:
Don’t limit your trip to Hamsiköy only. Explore surrounding villages, visit Uzungöl, and enjoy the enchanting lakes and forests. Check available tour programs via the Trabzon Tours page to choose the experience that suits you best. - Local Cuisine:
Don’t leave without tasting Hamsiköy’s famous sütlaç (rice pudding), an essential part of the experience.
If you’re looking for more breathtaking natural destinations in Turkey, don’t miss our article Between Mountains And Lakes: Experience The Magic Of Nature In Turkey's Sapanca And Bolu.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hamsiköy
Here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions by travelers before visiting Hamsiköy:
How far is Hamsiköy from Trabzon?
Hamsiköy village is about 50 km from central Trabzon, approximately a one-hour drive via the mountain roads around Zigana Mountain.
What makes Hamsiköy rice pudding taste special?
The secret lies in using fresh milk from nearby mountain pastures, cooking slowly over low heat for hours, and then browning the top in the oven, giving it a unique flavor and texture.
Is the road to Hamsiköy difficult?
The road is mountainous but paved and safe, suitable for regular cars. In winter, some sections may be affected by snow, so it’s best to check the weather before traveling.
How far is Hamsiköy from Uzungöl?
Hamsiköy is about 140 km from Uzungöl, roughly a 2.5-hour drive depending on road conditions and stops.
Trip Conclusion: Hamsiköy Like You’ve Never Seen It
If you’re looking for pure nature, an authentic local experience, and a different adventure in northern Turkey, Hamsiköy is your next destination.
With FGI Travel, you can explore the village in complete comfort and safety. We provide transportation in luxury cars with Arabic-speaking drivers, plus an experienced tour guide to ensure you enjoy every moment. We also make booking the best hotels and villas easy, along with flight reservations at competitive prices.
Book now and enjoy an unforgettable travel experience with FGI Travel