Northern Turkey Like Never Before: The Green of Ayder, the Calm of Hamsiköy, and the Mist of Hıdırnebi

In every corner of northern Turkey, there's a special kind of magic you won’t find anywhere else. Here, lush forests meet mountain mist, creating landscapes that look like they belong in a dream.

Walking through the meadows of Ayder gives you an unexplainable energy, the serenity of Hamsiköy slows time down in the best way, and Hıdırnebi—well, that’s a story of its own. It’s where you feel above the world, closer to the clouds than to the ground.

This region offers more than just views—it offers a feeling. A sense of peace, of detachment from the noise, and of being present in the moment.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the most beautiful spots in northern Turkey—destinations that leave a lasting mark on the heart.

For more nearby destinations in the same region, take a look at our guide to the best tourist spots in Northern Turkey for 2025.

Ayder… Nature That Refreshes the Soul

Where is Ayder?

Ayder is one of the most stunning villages in northern Turkey, located in the Rize province near the Fırtına River. It’s about a 2-hour drive from Trabzon—but every minute of the road is worth it.

Breathtaking Nature

Surrounded by thick forests, echoing waterfalls, and ever-present fog drifting between the hills, Ayder feels like walking inside a cloud. You can stroll along a wooden bridge over the river or sit by the water sipping Turkish tea while nature hums around you.

Most visitors stay in cozy wooden cabins, which make the experience complete. Imagine waking up to the sound of rain or birdsong, opening your window to a view that brings instant calm.

If you’d like to experience the atmosphere up close, check out our article on staying in the heart of Turkish nature with the charm of Rize’s wooden cabins.

Hot Springs… Warmth in the Chill

Ayder is also famous for its mineral-rich hot springs. People visit not only to relax but also for the health benefits, especially for joint or muscle fatigue.

A Breakfast to Remember

No trip to Ayder is complete without a proper Turkish breakfast.
Expect mountain honey, fresh cream, bread straight off the griddle, and cheeses from nearby farms.
Feeling adventurous? Try "mıhlama"—a rich, gooey blend of cornmeal, butter, and cheese that melts in your mouth.

What Can You Do in Ayder?

• Walk through the forests
• Visit Gelin Tulu Waterfall
• Go biking through the valleys
• Enjoy a traditional Turkish bath
• Capture the misty views (every corner is a photo!)

Hamsiköy… The Quiet Beauty of the Mountains

Where is Hamsiköy?

Hamsiköy is a small, peaceful village nestled in the green mountains of Trabzon. It’s not far from the city center, but once you arrive, it feels like you’ve traveled to a different world.

Clean Air and Unmatched Calm

Away from the city noise, Hamsiköy offers a simple countryside charm—no crowds, no commercial chaos.
Just a wooden table, a warm cup of tea, and the sound of wind rustling through the trees.

Though the village is small, there are a few cozy inns and mountain cabins.
They’re not fancy—but they’re real. Sleeping in this peaceful quiet, waking up to birds or light rain… it’s a different kind of luxury.

The Village Famous for Rice Pudding

Hamsiköy is known across Turkey for its unique "sütlaç"—baked rice pudding made with fresh local milk and a golden top straight from the oven.
You’ll find little roadside shops serving it fresh and hot, every spoonful telling the story of the village.

Walking That Brings Peace

Hiking through Hamsiköy is a joy on its own.
You’ll pass by grazing cows, rustic houses, and hillside views perfect for photos.
If you love photography, every frame here looks like a phone wallpaper.

Hıdırnebi… Between the Clouds and Stories Untold

Where is Hıdırnebi?

Located about 45 minutes west of Trabzon, Hıdırnebi Plateau sits 1,600 meters above sea level. The road is scenic but a bit winding—best to go with a local driver or guided tour.

Closer to the Clouds

The weather here is unlike anywhere else.
Soft fog hugs the mountains, and the cool air slows down everything.
If you’re planning a visit, try to go between May and August—the temperatures are ideal and the landscape is stunning.

Nearby, you’ll find Çal Cave (one of the longest caves in the world) and Balıklı Göl (“Fish Lake”)—a peaceful green space surrounded by pastures where horses and cows roam freely.

Simple Meals with a View

Small rustic cafés offer delicious local food—grilled meats, fresh bread, and, of course, steaming Turkish tea.
Tip: Bring some cash, as most places don’t accept cards.

For Social Media and Photography Lovers

If you love content creation, Hıdırnebi is your heaven.
The fog, the wooden cottages, and the rolling green—all are perfect backdrops for photos and videos.
Whether it’s a professional camera or just your phone, every corner is Insta-worthy.
Many couples come here for engagement shoots or to film Reels and TikTok.
For the best light, come early in the morning or just before sunset.

Plan Your Trip: Ayder’s Greenery, Hamsiköy’s Quiet, and Hıdırnebi’s Mist

If you’d love to enjoy all this without the stress of planning, here’s a suggested 3-day itinerary in Northern Turkey, organized by FGI Travel:

• Day 1: Arrive in Trabzon and head straight to the peaceful beauty of Ayder—waterfalls, breakfast, and thermal baths await.
• Day 2: Explore Hamsiköy’s rustic charm and enjoy its legendary rice pudding.
• Day 3: Spend the day among the clouds in Hıdırnebi, visit Çal Cave, and savor a mountain lunch with a view.

FGI Travel offers you:

• A private vehicle with a professional driver
• A fluent Arabic-speaking guide
• Flexible plans tailored to your time and interests

📩 Ready to book or learn more?
Contact us today and let Northern Turkey open its heart to you.