Trabzon: Uzungöl Group Tour, Explore The Nature & Taste Tea

If you’re planning a trip to Trabzon and want a taste of the region’s natural beauty and local craftsmanship, this Uzungöl group tour could be a solid pick. It offers a mix of scenic views, cultural insights, and tasty treats, all wrapped into an 8-hour adventure that’s ideal if you’re into exploring beyond the city. We’ve looked into what this tour is about, and here’s an honest run-through of what you can expect, along with some practical tips.

Two things we really like about this tour: first, the chance to see Uzungöl from above, which is a view that truly lives up to the hype. Second, the mix of activities—visiting a local knife workshop, a tea factory, and tasting Turkish delights—gives you a well-rounded feel of the region’s culture and flavors. On the flip side, a possible downside is the structured nature of the day, which might feel a bit rushed if you’re someone who prefers more time at each spot.

This tour is well-suited for those who want a comprehensive day trip that combines nature, culture, and food without the hassle of planning each step. It’s also a good option for travelers who enjoy learning about traditional crafts and local specialties, with enough flexibility to enjoy some free time in Uzungöl itself.

Key Points

• Diverse experiences: From knife making to tea tasting, the tour covers many facets of local culture.
• Stunning views: The panoramic lookout at Uzungol Bayraktepe offers one of the best photo ops.
• Culinary delights: Sampling Turkish delights, honey, and sweets adds a delicious local touch.
• Well-organized logistics: Departure and return from multiple pickup points make logistics easier.
• Price value: At about $53, it offers a good mix of sights and experiences for the cost.
• Weather-ready: Be prepared for rain or shine with comfortable shoes, rain gear, and windbreakers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Uzungöl Tour Experience

Starting Point and Group Dynamics

The tour begins with pickup from one of 12 locations in Trabzon, including major hotels like Ramada Plaza, Novotel, and Hilton. Having multiple pickup points is convenient, especially if you’re staying centrally or close to a major hotel. The transportation is in an air-conditioned bus, making the journey comfortable, which is a big plus considering the 8-hour total duration.

The group size isn’t explicitly specified, but given the multiple pickup points and organized nature, expect a reasonably social environment without feeling overwhelmed. The guide speaks English, Arabic, and Turkish, which caters to a diverse crowd.

First Stop: Sürmene Knife Department

The tour kicks off with a visit to Sürmene, renowned worldwide for its quality and sharpness in knife crafting. It’s more than just a shop—it’s a guided tour that shows you the traditional techniques behind making these iconic knives. As one reviewer notes, “We loved the way they explained the process, and the knives were genuinely impressive.”

This stop is a nice way to appreciate a local craft that has been handed down through generations. You can shop for high-quality knives here, but it’s also an educational experience. Keep in mind, if you’re not into knives, it might be a less engaging stop, but overall, it offers a glimpse into Black Sea craftsmanship.

Second Stop: Ikicay Tea Factory

Next, the tour visits a tea factory—an essential part of Black Sea culture. The guided visit spans around 35 minutes, during which you learn about the adventure of tea in Turkey—how it’s cultivated, processed, and enjoyed. Of course, there’s a tea tasting, giving you a chance to savor the local favorite directly from the source.

One reviewer highlighted that “the tea tasting was authentic, and we learned so much about how tea is made and enjoyed here.” Plus, the tour includes a traditional dance show, adding a cultural flair to the experience.

This stop offers a good balance: you gain knowledge, taste some of the best local tea, and enjoy a cultural touchstone that’s a big part of daily life in the Black Sea region. It’s especially rewarding for tea lovers or anyone curious about regional traditions.

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Third Stop: Ali Baba Lokumcusu (Turkish Delight & Sweets)

Before heading to Uzungöl, the tour makes a sweet stop at Ali Baba Lokumcusu. Here, you get to sample Turkish delights, honey, and sweets, and browse their selection. It’s a brief 30-minute visit, but it’s enough to indulge in some tasty treats and pick up small souvenirs.

The reviews mention “delicious samples and friendly staff,” making it a pleasant, flavorful break. If you enjoy sweets or want a quick gift for someone back home, this stop works well.

Arrival at Uzungöl

The highlight of the day is the stop at Uzungol Bayraktepe, offering a spectacular panoramic view of the lake and surrounding mountains. From here, you get a bird’s-eye perspective that’s perfect for photos and soaking in the scenery. The view is widely praised—many reviews mention that it’s a must-see.

You’ll then head to a restaurant near the lake, where you have free time for lunch and sightseeing. This is a good chance to explore at your own pace, whether you prefer a leisurely walk by the water, exploring local shops, or just relaxing with a coffee.

Exploring Uzungöl

With around 2.5 hours of free time, you can enjoy some local walks, take photos, or simply unwind. The area is picturesque, with lush greenery and traditional houses lining the lake. Keep in mind that Uzungöl can get busy, especially on weekends, so plan accordingly if you want a quieter moment.

Return Journey with a Photo Break

On the way back, the tour includes a stop at the Historical Tiled Bridge, a charming spot ideal for photos or just a quick look at local architecture. The bus then heads back to Trabzon, arriving after a full day of sightseeing.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Timing: The tour lasts about 8 hours, with a flexible start time based on availability. Be punctual for pickup, as the schedule is tight.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes are a must, especially for walking in Uzungöl and the scenic lookout. Rain gear and a windbreaker are advisable, as the weather can be unpredictable.
• Food & Drinks: The tour doesn’t include meals or beverages, so consider bringing snacks or extra water if you tend to get hungry or thirsty.
• Weather Preparedness: Since the tour takes place rain or shine, dress accordingly. Even in good weather, layers are helpful.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is great for travelers who want a balanced day of culture, nature, and food without too much hassle. It’s suitable for those interested in traditional crafts like knife-making, enthusiastic about tea, or simply looking for stunning views of Uzungöl. It’s not overly strenuous, making it accessible for most physically capable travelers. If you’re visiting Trabzon and want a curated, relaxed day that hits many highlights, this is a good pick.

Final Thoughts

This Uzungöl tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of the Black Sea region. The combination of scenic vistas, cultural insights, and delicious treats provides good value for its price of $53. It’s especially recommended if you’re keen on seeing Uzungöl from above, learning about local crafts and teas, and enjoying some authentic Turkish sweets.

While the day is quite structured, it delivers a variety of experiences that give you a taste of what makes this region special. The views alone make it worth considering, and the cultural stops add depth to what you’re seeing and tasting.

If you prefer a relaxing yet informative day that mixes scenic beauty with local culture, this tour fits the bill—and with the positive reviews backing it, it seems to deliver what’s promised.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from multiple locations in Trabzon, with transportation in an air-conditioned bus.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, including stops for sightseeing, tasting, and free time in Uzungöl.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are essential for walking. Also, rain gear, a windbreaker, and perhaps a camera or phone for photos are recommended, as the weather can change.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You’ll have time for lunch in Uzungöl, but it’s on your own.

Can I buy souvenirs during the tour?
Yes, there are shopping opportunities at the knife workshop, the sweets store, and in Uzungöl itself.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically tailored for families, the stops are generally safe and engaging for older kids, especially those interested in crafts and scenic views.

This tour is a gentle, varied peek into the Black Sea’s natural beauty and rich culture. It’s perfect for curious travelers eager to see a different side of Turkey, and who enjoy a mix of scenic moments and cultural storytelling.

You can check availability for your dates here: