Fındıklı (District)

Fındıklı is a district of Rize province, located on the Black Sea coast where green mountains meet the sea. This region boasts natural beauty characterized by lush forests, cascading streams, and historic houses. Would you like to explore this unique corner of the Black Sea more closely?

Fındıklı is a coastal district situated 60 kilometers east of Rize city center. To its north lies the Black Sea, and to its east is the district of Arhavi. Fındıklı has a mountainous terrain, with land rising rapidly from the coastline.

Four main streams flow from the district toward the sea. One of these, Çağlayan Stream, divides the district in two and forms a beautiful valley. As you ascend along the valleys, you reach the snow-capped peaks of the Kaçkar Mountains.

The streams of Fındıklı and the small rivers that feed them are exceptionally clean. These clear, oxygen-rich waters are home to a unique species of fish known as the "red-spotted trout." The presence of these fish is a clear indicator of the high quality of the region’s water sources.

^{Red-spotted trout (generated by artificial intelligence)}

Due to rainfall throughout all seasons, the vegetation is dense and abundant. At higher elevations, numerous cold lakes such as Alaca Lake and Çabukli Lake, formed by glaciers, can be found. These lakes and waterfalls are ideal destinations for those seeking relief from the summer heat.

The most important source of livelihood for the people of Fındıklı is tea cultivation. Tea plants have been grown here since 1944. The tea harvest begins in May and is carried out three or four times a year until the weather turns cold.

^{Tea cultivation (generated by artificial intelligence)}

The region also preserves an ancient tradition called "atmacacılık." In late August, people capture migrating hawks without harming them and train them. After training, these birds are released back into the wild.

In the Çağlayan Valley, there are historic residences known as "Laz Houses." These structures are valuable examples of the region’s traditional architecture.

^{Laz Houses (generated by artificial intelligence)}

During the summer months, locals move with their livestock to higher, cooler areas known as yaylas. Notable yaylas in this region include Balıklı, Çamlık, and Sakura. In early July, festive celebrations called "Vartivor" are held in these highland pastures.

^{Balıklı Yaylası (generated by artificial intelligence)}