Camlihemsin Guide

Çamlıhemşin, a district in Rize province, perfectly represents the features of the Black Sea Region with its lush plateaus and turbulent streams. This Anatolian town is rich in natural beauty and history, making it a must-see destination. The exact history of Çamlıhemşin is not well-known, but it became part of the Seljuk Empire after the Battle of Manzikert in 1071. Later, it was governed by the Pontic Greek Empire and the Ottoman Empire. The town's old name was Vicealtı, and it officially became Çamlıhemşin in 1957, when it gained its current name and became one of Rize’s central districts. Today, Çamlıhemşin is one of the most important tourist destinations in Eastern Black Sea region, particularly with the famous Fırtına Valley located a little inland from the coast.

Çamlıhemşin, with its characteristic rainy climate and lush landscapes, fully embodies the features of the Eastern Black Sea weather. Approximately 80% of the area is covered by forests, with plenty of hills and mountains. There are no flat areas to speak of. The southern part of the district is surrounded by the Kaçkar Mountains, and the peaks of Kaçkar Dağı host both large and small crater lakes. The Fırtına River runs through the center of Çamlıhemşin, and its surrounding valley is known as the Fırtına Valley.

The population of Çamlıhemşin is relatively small, and the main livelihood of the locals is agriculture, particularly the cultivation of corn, tea, and various types of beans. The houses in the area are mostly made of wood, using natural materials such as chestnut and hornbeam wood. Many of these houses are perched on steep slopes, and some of the older ones are over a century old. You can find beautiful examples of wooden craftsmanship in the houses of old-established families.

When you visit Çamlıhemşin, you will feel like you are stepping into history as you see the old wooden houses, wooden bridges, historical mosques, and stone mansions. The town offers nearly every shade of green and has a growing tourism potential. Visitors, both local and foreign, come to explore the area year-round. The Palovit Waterfall and the Fırtına River have become quite famous, and many TV series have even been filmed here.

Çamlıhemşin hotels mainly consist of boutique hotels, small hotels, guesthouses, and mountain cabins. Some hotels have been restored from old wooden buildings. These small hotels are charming, with all the modern amenities, and they are open throughout the year. Some boutique hotels in Çamlıhemşin open their doors in May at the beginning of the holiday season and remain open until November. Staying in Çamlıhemşin hotels, you will enjoy a stunning mountain view and fresh, clean mountain air.

Hotel prices in Çamlıhemşin are very reasonable, as the local hotel operators have considered the budgets of their guests. If you're planning a trip to the beautiful, green Çamlıhemşin in the fall, you can check out our website for information on Çamlıhemşin hotels, hotel prices, and affordable options. It is highly recommended to make a reservation in advance.

For accommodation recommendations, you can visit our Çamlıhemşin Hotels page.