Rize Province sits high in north-east Turkey and is surrounded by lush tea plantations and medieval castles. Rize Province is also famous for its magnificent scenery, including tumbling waterfalls, verdant valleys and wildlife-rich national parks.

Things to do

Rize is the province's lively capital city, set in the heart of Turkey's scenic tea-growing region and encircled by emerald slopes. Admire the beautifully restored Ottoman houses and 6th-century Rize Castle, which commands panoramic views over the Black Sea.

Why not enjoy a cup of mahogany coloured "cayi" at the atmospheric Ziraat Tea Garden? It's perched on a hillside and boasts sweeping vistas over the Rize tea plantations. You can stroll around the gardens, learn about the tea production process and sample local brews.

Visit Zilkale, an imposing medieval castle overlooking the Firtina Valley at an altitude of 1,300 metres. It dates back to the 13th century and was once used as a fortress for both the Byzantines and Ottomans. Climb up onto the ramparts for stunning valley views.

Rize Province cradles some of Turkey's most picturesque landscapes. Don't miss Palovit Falls in Kackar Mountains National Park, where water cascades 15 metres into a mist-enveloped pool. You can also gaze up at Gelintulu Waterfall, which is surrounded by beech and cedar forests.

Getting around

Rize Province is well-serviced by a network of local buses and "dolmus" minibuses. Taxis and private drivers also access the tea plantations. Fly into Trabzon Airport, which is 150 kilometres from Rize.