Sis Mountain Plateau (Trabzon side)

Description

Located within Şalpazarı, the Sis Mountain Plateau (Trabzon side) is a cool summer escape where mist dances with clouds and lively plateau festivals are held.

Story

The Trabzon side of Sis Mountain Plateau, within the borders of Şalpazarı district, has long been known as a cool summer refuge for the surrounding villages. In just a few hours you rise from the humid and warm Black Sea coast to suddenly find yourself above the clouds, on a highland that takes its name from the thick mist that appears almost every day. In the early morning, the valleys are filled with fog; as the sun climbs higher, the mist slowly withdraws, revealing endless green hills and traditional wooden plateau houses stretching to the horizon. Historically, the area has been part of a nomadic and semi-nomadic pastoral culture. Families from Şalpazarı and nearby villages would bring their animals to Sis Mountain for summer grazing, escaping the coastal heat while taking advantage of the plateau’s lush meadows. Although this tradition does not continue in exactly the same way today, its spirit lives on. Modern vehicles have replaced old migration routes with winding mountain roads, yet the essence of the plateau is still shaped by this seasonal meeting between people and nature. The Sis Mountain Plateau (Trabzon side) is especially famous for its mid-summer festivals. The sound of the kemençe, a traditional Black Sea fiddle, echoes over the slopes while groups dance the horon without pause, often right above a sea of clouds. Visitors from Trabzon and neighboring provinces join the celebration, surrounded by traditional clothing, local dishes, and contests that showcase highland culture. Many guests witness the mist rolling back in around noon, covering the plateau once again. Visibility suddenly drops, trees and houses turn into silhouettes, and these moments offer striking frames for photography enthusiasts. The natural environment is marked by vegetation adapted to high altitude and by a cool wind that rarely dies down. Even in summer, nighttime temperatures fall, creating exceptionally clear skies and dense stars overhead. Most people visit Sis Mountain Plateau as a day trip, but those who love camping and listening to the sounds of nature can still find quiet corners away from the crowds. Along the way to the plateau you will often see wooden mosques, small village shops, and highland houses, reminders that this natural area is also a living cultural landscape. In this way, Sis Mountain Plateau (Trabzon side) offers a distinctive experience for travelers who seek both tranquil nature and an authentic glimpse into Black Sea highland life.

Visit Tips

• Before going to Sis Dağı Plateau, check the weather conditions, as the weather can change suddenly and the fog can thicken.
• During the plateau festivals, don't forget to taste the local delicacies; especially corn bread and cheeses are quite popular.
• Plan to go for a walk to enjoy nature, but make sure to wear appropriate shoes and don't forget to bring water with you.
• To capture the magnificent view of Mount Sis, it is best to visit early in the morning or in the late afternoon; at those times, the mist and light will present themselves in the most impressive way.

Photos