Altindere Valley National Park

The basics

Many visitors arrive in Altindere National Park as part of a day trip, primarily to visit Sumela Monastery—its pool, considered sacred, is thought to heal incurable ailments. Vehicles can make it part of the way, but reaching the monastery requires an uphill climb of over half a mile (one kilometer.) Altindere is also a popular trekking spot, famed for its pine and spruce forests and as a refuge for wolves, bears, lynx, and foxes.

Things to know before you go

• Wear sturdy trekking shoes and bring plenty of water and provisions for day hikes.
• If you’re unfamiliar with the area, consider hiking alongside a trusted guide.
• For anyone looking to stay overnight or longer, tourist bungalows are located within specific sections of the park and can be reserved in advance. Sumela Monastery also operates a guesthouse.
• Pack a pair of binoculars if you’re interested in birdwatching: The park is home to numerous bird species, including eagles and hawks.
• The Black Sea region is known for its rainfall, so check weather advisories ahead of your trip and pack weatherproof outerwear.

How to get there

Altindere National Park can be reached by road from Trabzon, a city located along the Black Sea coastline. Count on the drive taking around 45 minutes to an hour depending on traffic and road conditions. You can also take a bus to Maçka and continue onward by minibus, but you’ll need to check bus schedules. Expect winding turns, although the road is typically well maintained.

When to get there

The park is open year-round, although many areas are closed during the winter due to snow and ice. You can still visit Sumela Monastery— a quieter, more monastic experience than you’d find in summer—but many hiking trails will be inaccessible. The ideal weather window is from April to October. Plan for a weekday if visiting in summer to avoid the crowds.

The Hagia Sophia of Trabzon

It may lack the “wow” factor of its gold-tiled namesake in Istanbul, but The Hagia Sophia of Trabzon church is one of the Black Sea region’s best-preserved Byzantine monuments. It was built back in the mid-13th century, a century and a half after the fall of Constantinople. Visitors can still admire interior frescos and intricate stone carvings. It now functions as a mosque, so be sure to visit outside of designated prayer times.