Uzungol Tour: Full-Day Nature Adventure with Tea Factory Visit

Planning a trip to Turkey’s Black Sea coast? Then a day trip to Uzungol from Trabzon might just be the highlight of your visit. This tour promises a mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and some well-chosen stops that go beyond the usual tourist trail. With a small group, comfortable transportation, and a knowledgeable guide, it offers a smooth way to experience Uzungol’s serenity without the hassle of independent planning.

What we love about this tour is its focus on authentic experiences—visiting local sites like a traditional tea factory and Sürmene knife shop, alongside the stunning lake itself. It’s also a solid choice for those who want to maximize a limited trip, given the reasonable price and all-inclusive approach.

That said, one consideration is that the tour incorporates some shopping stops, which might not appeal to everyone. Also, there’s an emphasis on a moderate physical level, so travelers with mobility issues should note that walking around the lake and viewpoints is involved.

Overall, if you’re after a well-organized, authentic experience that blends nature and culture, this tour is a fantastic choice—especially for curious travelers keen to see what most travelers miss in the Black Sea region.

• Small group size of up to 15 people ensures a more personalized experience.
• All-inclusive transportation keeps logistics simple and comfortable.
• Stops at local sites like a tea factory and knife shop add cultural depth.
• Uzungol’s scenery offers breathtaking lake views, mountain landscapes, and lush forests.
• Good value for money at around $52 per person, including guiding and pickup.
• Flexible free time at Uzungol allows for exploration at your own pace.

Starting from Trabzon: Ease and Comfort

The tour kicks off early, with pickup from your hotel or a designated meeting point, typically around 9:00 am. The transportation is in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, making the journey comfortable even on warmer days. The small group size—max 15 travelers—means you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the guide can tailor explanations or help with questions.

One reviewer mentioned that the guide, Seyda, was very knowledgeable and friendly, which greatly enhances the experience. It’s clear that the guides are well-trained to keep the group engaged and informed, making the visit more meaningful than just a sightseeing checklist.

First Stop: Sürmene Knife Factory Outlet

The first break is at the Sürmene Knife Factory Outlet, a 30-minute stop that’s both practical and interesting. Sürmene is renowned for its traditional knife craftsmanship, and this stop offers a glimpse into local artisanal skills. The shop is a good place to pick up a unique souvenir—think beautifully crafted knives or kitchenware. While this is a shopping stop, it’s also informative, with guides explaining the history and techniques behind the craft.

Reviewers appreciated this stop, noting it added a layer of cultural authenticity. One said, “I learned about the craftsmanship and bought a beautiful knife as a gift.” It’s a quick stop, so if you’re not a shopper, it’s still worth it for the cultural insight.

Next: A Visit to a Tea Factory

On the way further along the route, the group stops at a traditional tea factory. Here, visitors get to observe the tea-making process, from fermentation to brewing. Factory officials often provide demonstrations, and guests can purchase fresh, high-quality tea as gifts or souvenirs—something that many reviewers found to be a highlight.

One reviewer pointed out that the tea production insight was very interesting, with the guide explaining how the best tea is brewed. It’s a chance to appreciate a local beverage that’s central to Turkish culture, especially in the Black Sea area. Plus, you get to support local producers.

Uzungol: The Main Event

The journey continues along the coast, winding past villages and tea gardens, until reaching the star of the tour: Uzungol. Sitting 1090 meters above sea level, this picturesque village is famous for its tranquil lake, steep slopes, and lush forests. The traditional village houses perched on the hillside add to its charm, making it a photographer’s paradise.

Once there, the group is free to explore the area at their own pace until around 4:00 pm. The key sights include the Uzungol Seyir Teras (Lake View Terrace), where you get a panoramic view of the lake and surrounding mountains—an Instagram-worthy moment for sure. You’ll also see the Artificial Waterfall, built to prevent flooding, which adds a touch of engineering to the natural beauty.

Activities and Free Time

The free time at Uzungol allows visitors to relax, enjoy a coffee or a local meal, or take a walk around the lake. Many reviews mention how scenic and peaceful the setting is, especially on a sunny day. The lakeside cafes serve fresh trout and Turkish treats, perfect for a leisurely lunch.

Some guests shared that they appreciated the quiet, unspoiled atmosphere—these moments often become the most memorable. One reviewer enthused, “The lake is spectacular, and I loved the peaceful vibe away from crowded tourist spots.”

Additional Stops: Solakl Valley and Waterfalls

The tour also visits Solakl Valley, famous for its tea and hazelnut gardens, adding to the scenic diversity. The guide’s explanations about local agriculture and landscape help deepen understanding of the region’s natural bounty.

Returning to Trabzon

As the day winds down, the group heads back to Trabzon, arriving around 6:00 pm. The smooth and safe drive, coupled with the small group and guided commentary, wraps up a well-rounded day.

At approximately $52 per person, this tour packs in a lot. The cost includes all transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and entry to key sites—shopping stops notwithstanding. Many reviews highlight that the trip feels well-organized and competitively priced for what’s offered. The option of hotel pickup and drop-off makes logistics simple, especially if you’re unfamiliar with public transport options.

What makes this experience stand out is the balance between nature, culture, and comfort. You get to see Uzungol’s serene landscape, learn about local crafts and tea-making, and have free time to soak in the views—all without the stress of planning individual trips or transportation.

Group Size and Guide Expertise

Guided by friendly, well-informed locals like Seyda, Taner, or Samil, you’ll get more than just surface-level info. Guests consistently mention that guides are eager to answer questions, share stories, and make the tour engaging. The limited group size means you can have a more intimate experience and personalized attention, which many travelers value.

Food and Shopping

While food isn’t included in the price, the cafes around Uzungol offer delicious options—trout is a local specialty. Reviewers appreciated the opportunity to try authentic Turkish cuisine in scenic settings. The shopping stops, particularly at the knife factory and tea shop, are optional but add cultural depth and souvenirs to take home.

This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive, stress-free day trip from Trabzon. It suits those who love natural scenery combined with cultural insights, especially if you enjoy small-group settings where guides can share local stories and tips. It’s particularly good for first-time visitors or those with limited time in the region, as it packs in diverse experiences efficiently.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic local experiences—such as learning how tea is made or watching artisans craft knives—this tour delivers. It’s also a solid choice for families or groups who want a relaxed day out, with plenty of flexibility in free time.

However, if shopping is not your thing or you prefer a completely activity-free day, this might not be the perfect fit. Also, those with mobility concerns should consider that walking around the lake and viewpoints is involved.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making it very convenient, especially if you’re staying in Trabzon.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 15, ensuring a more personalized experience and less crowded atmosphere.

How long is the tour?
The entire trip lasts around 8 hours, with free time at Uzungol until about 4:00 pm.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there are many cafes and restaurants at Uzungol to enjoy local dishes, especially fresh trout.

What are the main stops?
Stops include a Sürmene knife factory, a traditional tea factory, Uzungol village and lake, and the Solakl Valley with its tea and hazelnut gardens.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
It’s designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as some walking and exploring around the lake and viewpoints are involved.

Can I buy souvenirs during the tour?
Yes, shopping stops at the knife factory and tea shop are included, where you can buy authentic regional crafts and products.

To sum it up, the Uzungol tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Turkey’s Black Sea region—beautiful scenery, cultural stops, and a small-group vibe that makes for a memorable day out. It’s particularly perfect for those craving genuine local experiences, scenic photography, and a hassle-free adventure, all at a very reasonable price.