Alaca Plateau

Description

A high-altitude Black Sea plateau in Şalpazarı, Trabzon, known for its sea of clouds and lush green slopes.

Story

Alaca Plateau is a quiet highland resting against the mountains of Şalpazarı in Trabzon, directly exposed to the cool winds of the Black Sea. Locals say it takes its name from the mottled lights that fall on the slopes at sunrise and sunset. In the early morning, mist fills the valley and covers the hilltops like a sea; from above, you feel as if you are standing over the clouds. Even in summer, the air remains cool, making it a natural refuge for both local residents and visitors seeking to escape city life. The history of the plateau is tightly interwoven with the region’s traditional transhumance culture. For centuries, people from Şalpazarı and surrounding villages have brought their animals here in summer to graze and to enjoy the cooler climate. Old wooden highland houses built on stone foundations, narrow paths clinging to steep slopes, and flower-filled meadows swaying in the wind are silent witnesses to this way of life. Although it is not as famous as some other Black Sea plateaus that host large, crowded festivals, Alaca Plateau stands out precisely because of its relative tranquility. The first thing that greets visitors is the wide horizon and the openness of the sky. When the fog lifts, you can distinguish other plateaus on the facing hills, deep valleys, and mountain ranges descending toward the Black Sea in the distance. In late spring and early summer, blooming wildflowers turn the pastures into a vivid carpet, offering excellent opportunities for photography. Along the road, forested areas appear frequently, dominated by spruce and beech trees; between them, streams of ice-cold water flow down from natural springs. Another feature that makes Alaca Plateau special is the hospitality of the local people. Elderly residents sitting in front of the highland houses usually greet you and ask where you are from; some may offer you freshly brewed tea or traditional corn bread. Tulum music and the energetic horon dance are cultural elements that you may encounter, especially on lively summer days. Everyday life here is not sluggish, but it moves at a pace that follows the rhythm of nature. The visiting experience is largely built around being alone with nature. The plateau is surrounded by long hiking routes, from gently sloping tracks to more challenging trails climbing up steeper hills. For those who come prepared, watching the sunset from a high vantage point is one of the most impressive moments. As the sky turns orange and purple, mist once again settles into the valley and everything is embraced by silence. Those who stay overnight can enjoy a clear view of the stars, thanks to the low level of light pollution. Alaca Plateau remains important in the era of Modern Turkey, yet it has not fully been exposed to the pressure of mass tourism. For this reason, showing respect for nature, leaving no rubbish, and preserving the quiet atmosphere are crucial responsibilities for visitors. While it offers the familiar greenery and misty air of the Black Sea region, the plateau provides a calm, sincere, and nature-friendly escape for anyone who finds their way here.

Visit Tips

• If you schedule your visit to Alaca Plateau for early morning hours or late in the afternoon, it will be easier for you to enjoy the view of the sea of fog.
• Wearing appropriate shoes while hiking in the plateau increases your comfort and reduces the risk of slipping on slippery surfaces.
• Don't return from Alaca Plateau without tasting the local flavors; I especially recommend trying the plateau cheese and fresh corn bread.
• Since mobile phone signal may be weak in the plateau region, carrying a map or GPS device can prevent you from getting lost and make your explorations more enjoyable.

Photos