Sekersu Plateau

Description

Sekersu Plateau is a natural mountain plateau above Uzungöl, surrounded by forests and known for its cool climate and traditional highland life.

Story

Sekersu Plateau is a quiet mountain settlement in the Çaykara district of Trabzon, hidden among the forests that rise above Uzungöl’s southern slopes. It takes its name from the ice-cold sweet springs in the area; locals have used this water for centuries both for drinking and for livestock. Within a few winding turns, you move from the humid coastal climate of the Black Sea to a noticeably cooler and fresher mountain climate, and this transition is one of the most striking aspects of the journey. The road to the plateau gradually leaves behind the crowds around Uzungöl and climbs between spruce and beech trees in a series of curves. Especially in summer, dense layers of fog can suddenly appear and completely change both the view and the light; a sunlit valley can be wrapped in a fairy-tale grey within minutes. When the fog lifts, small wooden highland houses, cows grazing on the meadows, and distant mountain ranges reveal themselves. Like many other plateaus in the region, the history of Sekersu is closely tied to a culture of transhumance. For centuries, families from Çaykara and nearby villages have brought their animals here in summer and returned to the villages in autumn. This seasonal movement has left its mark on both local cuisine and social life. Cheeses prepared for winter, butter and dishes made from corn flour are still among the simplest yet most authentic flavors offered to visitors. Because modern construction is relatively limited on the plateau, the night sky can be observed with almost no light pollution. On a lucky night, the Milky Way becomes clearly visible and the stars shine brighter than they do at near sea level. During the day, the dominant sounds are the distant clinking of cowbells and the murmur of the wind rippling through the grass. The main attraction of Sekersu Plateau is that it offers a simple and genuine highland experience instead of flashy tourist facilities. Visitors usually come here to hike, breathe the cool air, escape the crowds and witness, even for a few hours, a slower way of life. Its proximity to Uzungöl makes it suitable for a day trip; however, staying overnight on the plateau or in nearby villages offers a different experience to those who wish to see the morning fog drifting through the mountains. Today, within the rapidly changing tourism landscape of Modern Turkey, Sekersu Plateau is significant as a small mountain stop that strives to remain in harmony with nature. The road is in places narrow and rough, which makes it harder for large crowds to flock here, yet this helps the plateau preserve its tranquil character. The greatest reward for visitors is encountering an almost untouched mountain atmosphere only a few hours away from the noisy Black Sea coast.

Visit Tips

• Before going to Şekersu Plateau, check the weather; the plateau climate can be cool, so it's advisable to dress in layers.
• While walking in the plateau, proceed slowly to enjoy nature and explore the surrounding vegetation.
• Don't miss the opportunity to taste the flavors offered by nature by purchasing fresh vegetables and fruits from local villages.
• While hiking along the plateau, be prepared to capture photos of the misty landscapes, especially in the morning hours; these moments can be quite enchanting.

Photos