Ayder Plateau Travel Guide (2026 Updated Access & Accommodation)
Travel Guide

Ayder Plateau Travel Guide (2026 Updated Access & Accommodation)

Almara Bungalow
May 10, 2026
3 min read
How to reach Ayder Plateau, the most famous plateau of Çamlıhemşin? Where to stay, what to do? From hot springs to Gelin Tülü Waterfall — full guide.

Ayder Plateau, located in the Çamlıhemşin district of Rize at an altitude of approximately 1350 meters above sea level, is a world-renowned plateau. Surrounded by spruce and beech forests, the plateau is particularly notable for its healing hot springs, the roaring waters of Fırtına Creek, and its unique nature.

How to Reach Ayder Plateau?

Reaching Ayder Plateau has become extremely easy today. After landing at Rize-Artvin Airport, you can take a Havaş bus or rental car along the coastal road to Ardeşen, then turn off at the Çamlıhemşin junction and ascend along the Fırtına Valley. The sound of the creek will accompany you throughout the journey.

If you are coming with your own vehicle, the roads are fully paved and accessible in every season. If you are staying at Almara Bungalow, Ayder Plateau is only a 30-minute scenic drive away.

Places to Visit in Ayder Plateau

When you arrive at Ayder, just lying on the grass and watching the view is enough, but the must-see places are:

Gelin Tülü (Bridal Veil) Waterfall: Located just above the plateau, this waterfall resembles a bride's veil with its long, thin flowing waters.
Ayder Hot Springs: Famous since Ottoman times for healing waters at 55°C, known to help rheumatism and skin conditions.
Kavrun Plateau Connection: For those wanting to go higher, you can reach Upper Kavrun Plateau by jeep and view the Kaçkar Mountain peaks.

Local Flavors: What to Eat?

You can't return from the Black Sea without trying local flavors. At restaurants in Ayder Plateau or central Çamlıhemşin, you must try:

  • Muhlama (Kuymak): Legendary breakfast made with Rize's famous stringy cheese and cornmeal.
  • Laz Pastry: A sweet pastry made with thin dough and custard filling.
  • Dry Beans: Çayeli's famous İspir beans cooked over a wood fire.
  • Where to Stay in Ayder Plateau?

    Staying in central Ayder can be tiring in summer due to crowds and traffic. Conscious tourists prefer bungalow houses on the valley slopes along the Ayder route, more isolated with nature.

    If you're looking for a quiet, peaceful nature holiday away from the Ayder crowds, choose our luxury Almara Bungalow homes with fireplaces and jacuzzis, and unwind in your private jacuzzi after completing your plateau tour.

    - [Ayder Plateau accommodation options](/bolge-rehberi/ayder-yaylasi-konaklama)

    - [Almara Exclusive Bungalow — Fırtına Valley view](/oda/almara-exclusive)

    - [Rize bungalow houses guide](/bolge-rehberi/rize-bungalov)

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    Almara Bungalow Editorial Team

    Content carefully prepared by local guides and nature enthusiasts who know the Rize and Çamlıhemşin region best.