Sümela Monastery&Uzungöl: Daily Group Tour

This tour promises a day packed with incredible sights around Trabzon, including the famous Sümela Monastery perched on a hillside and the lush beauty of Uzungöl. While it’s not a hidden secret—many travelers choose it to cover key highlights in one day—the experience offers genuine moments of awe, especially if you’re keen on nature, history, and local traditions.

What sets this tour apart? We love the way it combines cultural exploration with spectacular scenery, all wrapped into a manageable day. It’s also quite practical, with transportation included and the chance to try regional specialties like Turkish delight and fresh teas. However, a potential snag is the tight schedule, which some reviewers mention can feel rushed, especially at the monastery.

This tour is ideal for those looking to see some of the most iconic sites of Turkey’s Black Sea region without too much hassle, especially if you’re short on time or prefer a guided experience. It suits travelers who appreciate a mix of history, nature, and local culture, and who don’t mind a full day of activity.

Key Points

• Convenient full-day trip that covers Sümela Monastery, Uzungöl, and a tea factory.
• Stunning panoramic views of Uzungöl from the observation terrace.
• Historic Sümela Monastery with frescoed interiors and a fascinating 4th-century origin.
• Local tastes at a tea factory and gift shop, offering regional specialties.
• Guided experience with live guides speaking English, Arabic, and Turkish.
• Some reviews mention time management issues, so be prepared for a busy schedule.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Starting Out: From Trabzon at 09:00

Most trips kick off early to maximize daylight, with transportation included. The tour begins with a scenic drive, setting the tone for a day filled with contrasting sights—mountains, lakes, historic sites, and cultural stops.

Sumela Monastery: The Hidden Cliffside Treasure

The highlight for many travelers is the Sumela Monastery, founded in the 4th century. Located within the Altındere National Park, it’s famous for its dramatic location on a steep cliff, seemingly hanging in midair.

• The shuttle bus (costing 70 TRY) takes you partway up, after which you’ll walk about 300 meters along a path to reach the monastery. This short walk provides a preview of the breathtaking views awaiting inside.
• The entry fee is 20 TRY, and the tour guide will walk you through the frescoed interiors and share stories about its history and architecture.
• Keep in mind, depending on the season and your pace, the visit can feel somewhat rushed, especially if you want ample time to soak in the atmosphere.

Tea Factory Visit: Sipping the Regional Flavor

After descending from the monastery, the tour includes a stop at a local tea factory—a vital part of the regional economy. Turkey’s Black Sea region produces some of the best teas in the country, and here you’ll learn about how tea leaves go from gardens to cups.

• You get to try different types of tea, which is a highlight for tea lovers. Plus, the chance to browse a sales office with Turkish delights, chocolates, and aromatic teas adds a tasty shopping component.
• This stop offers a nice break from the busy sightseeing, allowing you to relax and appreciate the local craftsmanship.

Uzungöl: Nature’s Masterpiece

The final major stop is Uzungöl, meaning “Long Lake,” a glacial lake famous for its lush surroundings and mountain backdrop.

• You’ll ascend to an Observation Terrace for spectacular panoramic photos of the lake and surrounding peaks. The views are stunning in all seasons, whether it’s snow in winter or vibrant greenery in summer.
• The tour provides about 2 hours of free time by the lake, giving you the freedom to stroll, sit by the water, or visit the nearby Dursun Ali Nan Museum to learn more about the culture of the region.
• Many reviewers mention that Uzungöl’s picturesque scenery exceeds expectations, making it a highlight of the trip.

Return Journey and Scenic Breaks

On the way back to Trabzon, there’s a brief photo stop at the Historical Tiled Bridge built in 1935, a quaint reminder of Turkey’s early 20th-century architecture.

Arrival in Trabzon generally occurs between 18:00 and 19:00, depending on traffic and the season.

Practical Details: Making the Most of Your Day

Transport and Timing

• The tour includes transportation in a comfortable vehicle, which is crucial given the long day.
• Departure at 09:00 means it’s best to prepare early—bring essentials like cash and a credit card, as you’ll need both at different stops.

Cost and Value

• The $95 price point covers most activities—transport, guide, and the program. Entry tickets for Sumela (20 TRY) and the shuttle bus (70 TRY) are extra, which is worth considering when budgeting.
• Some travelers might find the overall value good for the convenience of guided logistics and access to key sites, especially if they prefer not to navigate public transport or worry about timing.

Accessibility and Considerations

• The walk up to Sumela involves a 300-meter path; some may find it a bit challenging, especially in hot weather or if mobility is an issue.
• The tour is not suitable for people over 95 years old or those with mobility difficulties.
• If traveling with fewer than 3 people, contact the provider directly, as arrangements may differ.

What Reviewers Say: Real Insights

One traveler, Maria, expressed frustration about the timing of the visits. She felt they started the monastery visit too late and missed seeing the Historic Tiled Bridge, which was part of the itinerary. She also noted that the tour did not start with the monastery as expected.

On the brighter side, Ahmed described his experience as “awesome,” praising the well-organized nature of the trip and the friendly guide. His positive outlook highlights that, with a good guide, this tour can be quite enjoyable.

Another traveler, GetYourGuide’s user, appreciated the guide but felt the itinerary was poorly managed, leading to a rushed visit at Sumela. Their trip extended to over 11 hours, indicating that timing might be tight, especially if the group is large or the traffic is dense.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This excursion is perfect for travelers seeking a rundown of the Trabzon region without the hassle of planning each stop individually. If you value spectacular views, like the history of Turkey’s Black Sea region, and want to enjoy local flavors, this tour ticks many boxes.

However, if you prefer to explore at a more relaxed pace or want to spend longer at each site, this might feel a bit rushed. The guided format and included transportation make it particularly suitable for those who want a convenient, full-day experience with minimal fuss.

Overall, it offers a solid balance of nature, history, and local culture—a good choice for curious travelers eager to see the highlights.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation is provided in a comfortable vehicle, making it easier to cover all stops in one day.

What is the starting time for the tour?
Most tours depart from Trabzon around 09:00, but check availability for specific times.

Are entry tickets included?
No, entry tickets for Sumela Monastery (20 TRY) and shuttle bus (70 TRY) are extra and need to be purchased separately.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts about 10 hours, with estimated arrival back in Trabzon between 18:00 and 19:00.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
It depends. The walk to Sumela involves a 300-meter path, so mobility is a consideration. The tour is not recommended for those over 95 years old or with mobility issues.

What language is the guide speaking?
Guides speak English, Arabic, and Turkish.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring cash, a credit card, and comfortable clothing. In colder months, dress warmly especially for Uzungöl.

This tour offers a solid introduction to some of Turkey’s most enchanting sights, with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and cultural insights. While it’s best suited for those who don’t mind a busy day, the blend of natural beauty and historic charm makes it a worthwhile choice for many travelers.