Vaşa Plateau

Vaşa Plateau is a high plateau located within the boundaries of İkizdere district in Rize province, in the Black Sea Region of Türkiye. This plateau, which is approximately 2,643 meters above sea level, is located on the Eastern Black Sea mountain range. The region is one of the areas where Rize's traditional plateau activities are carried out, but today it is largely uninhabited.

Geographical Location and Physical Characteristics

Vaşa Plateau is located within the boundaries of İkizdere district and can be accessed via Demirkapı Village and Homeze Plateau. The plateau's physical structure is characterized by steep slopes, narrow valleys, and cool climatic conditions. Due to its high altitude, average temperatures in the region are low, and foggy weather is common even in summer. This situation has contributed to the formation of alpine meadow ecosystems around the plateau.

Climatic and Ecological Structure

The plateau has a microclimate where the effects of a humid continental climate and high altitude are felt together. Although short-term droughts are seen in the summer months, the high humidity rate generally keeps the vegetation on the plateau alive. The flora includes endemic species, various herbaceous plants, high mountain flowers, and characteristics of the pine-fir transition zone. The fauna includes bird species unique to the region, such as the capercaillie (Tetrao mlokosiewiczi).

Settlement and Usage Status

Approximately 100 structures were identified in the Vaşa Plateau in the past. These structures were built using traditional Black Sea architecture based on stone and wood. However, today, the majority of these structures are empty and abandoned. The abandonment of the region is attributed to transportation difficulties, climatic challenges, and economic reasons leading to a decline in plateau activities. The existing structures are used for temporary accommodation or agricultural activities rather than permanent settlement.

Transportation Routes and Infrastructure Status

Access to the plateau is provided via two main routes from the district of İkizdere:

• Demirkapı and Homeze Yaylası route: This is a shorter and relatively accessible route. It is possible to reach the plateau in an average of 20 minutes by car.

Çamlık Köyü route: This is a route consisting of rough and winding roads, taking approximately 40 minutes. This route is generally not preferred except for off-road vehicles.

Both routes can be challenging due to road conditions, weak signals, and seasonal weather conditions. In winter, the roads are closed to traffic.

Current Function and Protection Status

Vaşa Plateau is not used as a permanent settlement area today. There is no significant use other than seasonal migration, small-scale livestock farming, and nature hiking trails. The area is not officially under protection, but it has potential for observation studies and ecotourism activities in terms of its natural landscape values.

Safety and Technical Warnings

Mobile communication infrastructure is limited in the region. Additionally, plateau roads become extremely slippery in rainy weather, making safe travel difficult. Guided travel, sturdy equipment, and weather-appropriate planning are recommended for those wishing to visit the plateau. There is no evidence of environmental damage or uncontrolled tourism activities in the vicinity of the plateau.

Academic Research and Potential

Vaşa Plateau holds potential for studies on the sociological phenomenon of rural abandonment and ecological studies on high mountain ecosystems. Topics such as the abandonment of settlements, the abandonment of rural areas, and the inability to preserve local architectural structures are potential research areas related to the region.