Ayder
A guide to Ayder Plateau: waterfalls, the sulphur springs (Ridos resort), green mountains, and distances from Trabzon and Rize. Arrange your Ayder tour with Absher Travel and a professional driver.
Ayder Yaylası is among the most beautiful highlands in Northern Türkiye, located in Rize province at over 1,300 metres amid the towering Kaçkar mountains. It is known for dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and mist that wraps its wooden houses to give the place an enchanting character.
Ayder is about 138 km from Trabzon (roughly two hours forty minutes) and around 78 km from the city of Rize. The route passes the famous Valley of the Winds and its old stone bridges.
Ayder is also known for its famous sulphur springs (Ridos resort), which visitors seek out for relaxation, as well as mountain walking and the cable car overlooking the valley.
What is Ayder known for?
- The Ridos resort with its famous sulphur springs for relaxation.
- Waterfalls, valleys and the stone bridges of the Valley of the Winds.
- Green mountains, wooden houses and near-constant mist.
- The cable car and views of the Kaçkar range.
- Mountain honey and local dairy products.
Top places in Ayder
Ridos Resort (sulphur springs)
A well-known thermal resort whose warm sulphur waters draw visitors seeking rest and relaxation within Ayder Plateau.
Ayder waterfalls
Several waterfalls cascade through the forest; the most famous can be seen while walking around the plateau.
The Ottoman bridge
An old Ottoman stone bridge crossing the green Valley of the Winds — one of the loveliest stops on the route and superb for photographs.
The Ottoman swing
A thrilling swing on the valley edge overlooking green scenery — among the most enjoyable adventure and photo experiences in Ayder and the Valley of the Winds.
Zip-lining
Glide above the green valley on a zip-line for a thrilling adventure in Ayder and the Valley of the Winds.
Rafting
Exciting rafting on the river through the Valley of the Winds amid stunning scenery — great fun for families and younger travellers.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Ayder is June to September, when the mountains turn green and the weather is pleasant. It is colder than the coast, so warm clothing is advisable even in summer. Some higher roads close in winter because of snow.
Tips from Absher
- Bring a warm jacket even in summer — Ayder is considerably cooler than the coast.
- The higher plateaus (Pokut / Sal) require a 4x4 and an experienced driver.
- Ayder can be combined with Rize over two days for an enjoyable, unhurried trip.
Nearby destinations you may like
FAQs about Ayder
How far is Ayder from Trabzon?
How far is Uzungol from Ayder?
Are the Ridos sulphur springs in Ayder suitable for families?
Can I collect a car without a driver in Ayder?
Useful information about Ayder
Ayder (Ayder, Türkiye) is among the best-known Ayder highlands andAyder Plateau in Northern Türkiye. The most frequently asked question is: How far is Ayder from Trabzon? The distance from Trabzon to Ayder is around 100 km, and Ayder is close enough to Uzungol and Rize to combine them in one itinerary.Where is Ayder? Within Rize province, at high mountain elevation.
Visitors often check theAyder weather andweather in Ayder and temperature before travelling, given how cool the highlands are. Its main attractions include Ayder waterfalls andthe sulphur springs (Ridos resort) andAyder village and its mountain restaurants. Accommodation includes Ayder cabins andAyder hotels at a range of prices (see Top 10 Cabins in Ayder) — we arrange them within your Ayder tourism programme, including transport from Trabzon Airport.
