Sumela Monastery Tour, Zigana and Hamsiköy Village Visits
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Trabzon
- 1 hours
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Altındere National Park
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St. Barbara Chapel
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Soumela Monastery
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Zigana Pass
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Hamsiköy Village
- 1 hours
-
Trabzon
- Explore Sumela Monastery with your guide after a forest walk in Altindere National Park.
- Take a scenic break at Zigana Pass and follow the traces of the ancient Silk Road.
- Enjoy a lunch break in Hamsikoy, famous for its rice pudding and village charm.
- Travel in a comfortable vehicle with a small group and hear insights from your guide.
The Sumela Monastery Tour from Trabzon begins at 09:00 and offers an unforgettable day trip combining nature, history, and culture. You can join this experience with an easy online reservation, with hotel pickup or meeting point options available for your convenience.
Our first stop is the iconic Sumela Monastery, one of the most remarkable landmarks of the Black Sea region. Located inside Altindere National Park, we reach the shuttle point and then walk a scenic 350-meter forest trail to the monastery. On the way, we visit St. Barbara’s Chapel and enjoy breathtaking views of the Altindere Valley.
At Sumela, you’ll be welcomed by its historical stone stairways, arched walkways, and panoramic terraces. Accompanied by your guide, you’ll explore the rock-hewn main church, chapels, student rooms, library, guesthouse, spring, and more. After ample time to explore and take photos, we regroup and return the same way.
On our return journey, we stop at the famous Zigana Pass, located 2,050 meters above sea level on the historic Silk Road. This pass has been traveled by many explorers, including Marco Polo. Here, we take a short break to admire the mountain landscapes of the Pontic Alps.
Our final stop is Hamsikoy Village, a charming Black Sea village known for its traditional rice pudding (sütlaç) and serene atmosphere. We enjoy a lunch break and relax surrounded by nature.
This guided Sumela Monastery day tour is perfect for travelers seeking a mix of cultural heritage and natural beauty. At the end of the tour, we return to Trabzon city center, wishing to see you again on another adventure.
- Transportation by new model air conditioned vehicle
- All trips specified in the program
- Guiding service
- Hotel pick-up service (optional)
- Museum and Entrance fees
- Food and drinks
- National Park shuttle service fee
We meet in front of the exchange office located next to Burger King, across from McDonald's. Please arrive at the meeting point before the tour's departure time.
Open in Google MapsBefore the Activity: Our tour departs from the meeting point in Trabzon city center at 9:00 AM. Hotel pickups are arranged according to the operational schedule and may occur before or after the tour’s departure time. Our operations team will inform you about your exact pickup time from your hotel prior to the tour.
Additionally, you are required to fill out the Participant Information Form included in the reservation confirmation email.
Getting to Sumela Monastery: It is mandatory to use the shuttle service to reach the national park parking lot and the beginning of the trail to the monastery. There is a 350-meter forest trail leading to the monastery, which is not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. Additionally, during the visit to the monastery, you will need to navigate many steps.
Lunch: Lunch will be provided at a local restaurant in Zigana. Please note that the cost of lunch is not included in the tour price. The restaurant accepts credit card payments.
Entrance Fees (per person):
- Sumela Monastery: 20 Euro (payable in cash in Turkish Lira or by credit card at the monastery entrance)
- Shuttle service fee: 70 TL per person (payable in cash in Turkish Lira)
What to Bring: Bring an ID or passport, comfortable shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing, including a raincoat even in summer.
Important Note: Our guide/agency staff may change the itinerary depending on weather conditions.