Intense Nature

Amazing nature is one of many reasons to visit Turkey that everyone should know before visiting this country. Turkey may not be known for its natural beauty, but a journey to the north of the nation, close to the Black Sea, will reward any nature enthusiast with lush green hills, lakes, and rivers. The Ayder plateau is located close to the little town of Rize along the Black Sea. The environment and way of life are radically different from the rest of Turkey, with many comparing it to the Swiss Alps, making this the ideal location for anyone seeking leisure amidst breathtaking natural scenery.

Trabzon and the neighboring town of Uzungol are located just up the coast from the city of Rize. The vistas from this adorable tiny lakeside village with surrounding mountains will make you believe you are in Switzerland rather than Turkey. Egirdir, a small lakeside village with mountains as a backdrop, is the ideal location for people seeking solitude in a natural setting with a variety of hiking opportunities close by.

If you're looking for large mountains, visit Mount Nemrut in the Eastern Taurus mountain range. The King Antiochus I of Commagene's tomb and two terraces of enormous stone statues on the peak make it worth the effort even though getting there is difficult and you'll need your own transportation.