Badara Plateau

Description

It is an area in the Çamlıhemşin district of Rize, known for its natural beauty.

Story

Badara Plateau, one of Çamlıhemşin's hidden and boutique plateaus, is like a miniature paradise located at approximately 1850 meters elevation, right next to Gito Plateau. The most important detail that distinguishes Badara from other plateaus and gives it an iconic appearance is the tiny artificial pond located right in the center of the plateau, reflecting the misty mountains around it. A few stone-wooden houses arranged around this pond and the majestic Kaçkar Mountains rising in the background transform this place into a postcard scene. Badara has a more compact and warm oba atmosphere rather than wide flatlands. This place is like a small exhibition area that has gathered nature's most beautiful pieces together rather than getting lost in nature. The plateau's peace comes not only from its visual beauty but also from its tranquility. Badara, usually visited together with Gito due to its proximity to Gito Plateau, actually has a depth that can be spent hours on its own. When the sea of fog climbs from the slopes and covers the plateau like a blanket, the silhouettes of the trees around the pond take on a fairytale atmosphere. Badara Plateau, while providing the most intense experience of the Black Sea's famous 'life above the clouds' feeling, also has an intimate atmosphere that makes you feel at home. The hospitality of the plateau residents and the endless oxygen provided by the mountains create a renewing effect on visitors. For visitors, Badara is one of the most special points to escape from the noise and chaos of city life and savor tranquility. Sitting by the pond and drinking tea, watching the cloud reflections falling on the water, and listening to the whisper of the wind is like a kind of meditation. For nature photographers, Badara promises unique shots especially with the misty image on the water in the first light of morning. The plateau is also a pleasant rest stop for hiking routes to the surrounding forested areas and higher peaks. Badara Plateau is the most concrete proof of how much spirit a small area can carry, how nature's simplest parts can come together to create a masterpiece.

Visit Tips

• Badara's road is quite narrow and winding; especially in foggy weather, those without driving experience are recommended to use local transfer vehicles.
• The ground around the pond can be very slippery when wet; be careful to step firmly when walking and taking photos.
• The local muhlama (kuymak) and cornbread you'll taste on the plateau will be your most delicious energy source at this altitude.
• You can experience two plateaus that are very close to each other but have very different spirits by visiting Badara together with Gito Plateau on the same day.

Photos