Petran Plateau is a high-altitude plateau located in the İkizdere district of Rize province, in the Black Sea Region of Turkey. Situated at approximately 2,000 meters above sea level, it lies at the foothills of the Eastern Black Sea Mountains. The plateau, which hosts various types of vegetation, is surrounded by alpine meadows, spruce, and fir forests.

Climate and Natural Features

Although the region is influenced by the Black Sea climate, due to its high altitude, it has cool and humid weather in the summer months. In the winter, there is heavy snowfall. The plateau experiences foggy and rainy weather conditions for most of the year. These climate conditions are favorable for the growth of diverse plant species.

^{Petran Plateau(Kulturportali)}

Cultural Features and Lifestyle

Petran Plateau is one of the temporary settlement areas used by locals engaged in nomadic animal husbandry during the summer. Traditional plateau life, livestock activities, and region-specific architectural structures (such as wooden plateau houses) are present in this area. During summer months, the locals produce items like cheese, butter, and corn bread, and traditional production methods are among their sources of livelihood.

Ski Culture and Outdoor Sports

Petran Plateau is one of the few places in Turkey where traditional wooden skis, known locally as "lazboard," are still used. These skis have been used by the local people for centuries, both for winter transportation and recreation. Since the 2000s, athletes and documentary filmmakers interested in extreme sports have begun to discover Petran Plateau, and this natural ski culture has been promoted through documentaries and sports projects. The plateau attracts the interest of some visitors.

Transportation and Access

Access to the plateau from the İkizdere town center is possible by private vehicles during the summer months. However, the road conditions are affected by seasonal rainfall, and during the winter, transportation is often not possible.