Adventurous Escape to the Kaçkar Mountains

High-Altitude Wonders in the Kaçkars

Today was nothing short of spectacular. The Kaçkar Mountains have a way of humbling you with their raw beauty, and today's adventure was a perfect reminder of why I traded my cozy Heidelberg apartment for a tent in the Turkish wilderness. The air is crisp, the views are endless, and the company, well, let's just say Greta and the guys make even a challenging hike feel like a walk in the park… almost.

Our day began, as most do on a camping trip, with a quick and simple breakfast at our campsite. The Kaçkar Mountains served as our dining hall, with a view that no restaurant could ever match. After packing up our gear, we set off towards our main destination for the day: Kaçkar Dağı Deniz Gölü. I had read so much about this glacial lake, perched high up in the mountains, and seen countless photos, but nothing truly prepares you for the real thing.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Kaçkar Dağı Deniz Gölü, a premier hiking destination in Turkey's Artvin region, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.

The hike up to Deniz Gölü was a bit of a climb, but the views along the way were more than enough to keep our spirits high. The trails were covered in snow, making it a bit slippery, but the right hiking boots made all the difference. I was thankful I had invested in a good pair before this trip. I did forget my rain jacket, though, which I now regret. The higher we climbed, the more the landscape transformed into a winter wonderland. Towering peaks surrounded us, their snow-capped summits piercing the clear blue sky. The silence was broken only by the crunch of our boots on the snow and the occasional call of a bird.

Sometimes, the most scenic roads in life are the detours you didn't mean to take.

Reaching Kaçkar Dağı Deniz Gölü was like stepping into another world. The lake itself was partially frozen, with chunks of ice floating on its surface. The water that wasn't frozen was a deep, mesmerizing blue, reflecting the surrounding mountains like a perfect mirror. I couldn't resist pulling out my camera and snapping a few shots. Greta, ever the patient wife, waited for me as I experimented with different angles and compositions. I swear, she has the patience of a saint when it comes to my photography obsession. The air was thin and cold, but the view was worth every shiver.

After soaking in the beauty of Deniz Gölü, we continued our trek towards the viewpoint over the mountain ridge. This part of the hike was even more challenging, with steeper inclines and more snow-covered paths. But with the guys' encouragement, we pushed on, determined to reach the top. And boy, were we rewarded. From the viewpoint, the entire Kaçkar range stretched out before us in all its glory. It was a panoramic vista of snow-covered peaks, deep valleys, and endless horizons. I felt like I was standing on top of the world, a tiny speck in the face of such immense natural beauty.


Discover stunning mountain vistas at the Viewpoint over the Mountain Ridge in Rize, an unforgettable escape for nature lovers and photographers.

We spent a good hour at the viewpoint, simply taking in the scenery and enjoying the moment. It's moments like these that make all the challenges and hardships of travel worthwhile. As the sun began to dip lower in the sky, we started our descent back towards lower ground. The way down was, thankfully, much easier than the way up, and we made good time, laughing and sharing stories along the way.

Before heading back to our campsite, we made a quick stop at AYDER ŞELALE HEDİYELİK EŞYA MAĞAZASI. I wanted to pick up a few souvenirs for the family back home, and Greta was on the lookout for some local crafts. The shop was a treasure trove of Turkish delights, from handwoven carpets to intricately painted ceramics. I ended up buying a beautiful little rug for my mother and a set of hand-painted bowls for Greta's sister. It's always nice to bring back a little piece of the places we visit.


Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Aydar Waterfall Souvenir Store in Rize, Turkey, where culture meets natural beauty.

For lunch, we stopped at KAÇKARSAN WOOD PALACE RESTAURANT VE SUİT KONAKLAMA. The warm atmosphere was very inviting, and the smell of traditional Turkish cuisine filled the air. We ordered a variety of dishes, including some delicious kebabs, fresh salads, and of course, plenty of Turkish tea. The food was hearty and satisfying, and it was the perfect way to refuel after our long hike.


Experience the best of Rize with exquisite dining and luxurious suites at Kaçkarsan Wood Palace Restaurant.

As the day wound down, we found ourselves at Kaçkar Lokantası for dinner. This cozy little restaurant was recommended to us by some locals, and it did not disappoint. We ordered a selection of regional specialties, including some mouthwatering manti (Turkish dumplings) and a flavorful lamb stew. The food was authentic and delicious, and the service was warm and friendly. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.


Experience authentic Turkish cuisine at Kaçkar Lokantası in Rize Merkez, where tradition meets taste in every dish.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Gallerdüzü Çift Puğarlar Çeşmesi and Karmik Yaylası. I've heard that the views from Karmik Yaylası are simply stunning, and I'm eager to see them for myself. We might even stop by NOKARAVEN Pub Palace for a nightcap, if we're feeling adventurous.

Back at our campsite, as I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences of the day. The Kaçkar Mountains have a way of stripping away the unnecessary and reminding you of what truly matters: good company, breathtaking scenery, and the simple joy of being alive. And maybe a good pair of hiking boots.

The forecast for the next few days predicts more snow and cold temperatures, so we'll need to be prepared for some challenging conditions. But with the right gear and a positive attitude, I'm confident that we can handle anything that comes our way. After all, that's what adventure is all about, right? Embracing the unknown and making the most of every moment, no matter how challenging it may be. And who knows, maybe we'll even stumble upon a hidden gem or two along the way. Until tomorrow, keep exploring!

P.S. I really need to remember that rain jacket next time…