Ayder Plateau

Ayder Yaylası is located 87 km from the city center of Rize and 16 km from the district center of Çamlıhemşin. Declared a Tourism Center on 19 April 1987, Ayder was granted the status of a Culture and Tourism Protection and Development Zone by the Council of Ministers Decision No. 11264 dated 20 November 2006 due to its diverse tourist activities including alpine tourism thermal spas and winter tourism.

Ayder Yaylası attracts attention with its natural landscape authentic local architecture and scientifically proven thermal springs known for their healing properties. Since 2004 the region has enhanced its tourist appeal by being the first in Türkiye to offer heliskiing which has made it a destination of interest to both domestic and international tourists. In addition to thermal tourism Ayder offers visitors various alternatives such as heliskiing trekking photo safaris camping and mountaineering.

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Ayder Yaylası lies under the influence of the Black Sea climate and receives abundant rainfall throughout the year. It has cool summers and cold snowy winters. This condition is particularly significant for winter tourism and spa visits. Ayder Yaylası is known for its rich vegetation and forested areas. Coniferous trees such as fir and silver fir are common. The region is also notable for its endemic plant species and medicinal herbs.

Ayder is one of the important settlements reflecting the traditional Black Sea culture of Rize. The local population’s lifestyle characterized by traditional alpine migrations and cultural elements such as horon shapes the identity of the region. Ayder and its surroundings offer the unique flavors of Black Sea cuisine. Local specialties include muhlama black cabbage soup corn bread and hamsi.

• Thermal Spas: The healing thermal waters are an important element of health tourism.
• Heliskiing: Ayder is one of the rare heliski destinations in Türkiye particularly appealing to adventure sports enthusiasts.
• Trekking and Nature Walks: Fırtına Stream and its surroundings are popular for hiking and nature photography.
• Rafting: Rafting on Fırtına Stream is a sport conducted with professional guides along strong currents. Participants engage in this activity using boats equipped with safety measures.

The natural structure and ecosystem of Ayder Yaylası are under threat due to the increasing tourism activities in recent years. Implementing sustainable tourism policies regarding construction and human impact in the region is essential.