Alright, let's get to our notes on Rize... As I mentioned before, I'll list some concise recommendations for your short trips without overwhelming you with details. Of course, this won't be enough as the region is vast and diverse.
For Sunset in Rize: Huser Plateau is a magnificent place to watch the sunset. Make sure to keep an eye on the weather forecast.
Dining in Rize: In Hamsiköy, you must try the delicious rice pudding that will leave a lasting taste in your mouth. In Çayeli, don't leave without tasting the dry beans at Lale Restaurant. Additionally, Rasot Mountain House in Çayeli serves fantastic trout! You'll go through some incredible roads to get to Rasot. In Pazar district, there's a place called Dayı'nın Yeri, a small casual fish restaurant with very tasty fish dishes. In Dağmaran, try mıhlama (cornmeal porridge) and stuffed grape leaves. At Huzur Restaurant, enjoy a meal and turbo dessert, and at Liman or Durak Restaurant, try the roast meat. Of course, don't miss having Turkish coffee at Evvel Zaman. A bit above Ayder, visit Kardelen Restaurant for delicious local meat dishes, and Nadir Bey's meat is also excellent. Oh, what a delight! At Yolun Dibi café near Koboş Bridge, you must try the onion omelette and mıhlama. It's unforgettable! In Fındıklı, the central Orme Toast Shop makes the most delicious toast I've ever had. It's made from rib meat minced with twenty different spices. Evrim, the owner of Bageni Guesthouse, took us there. We were blown away!
Sightseeing in Rize: Zilkale offers stunning nature and scenery, it's an amazing castle where you can see everything from the inside. Haremtepe - Çeçeva Village is a perfect spot for photos. Çat Valley is similar. The list goes on and on for Rize. Visit Pileki facilities in İyidere. Dip your feet in the flowing stream and enjoy sipping Rize tea in the cool waters of Rize. Follow the 2 km walking path along the stream to climb up to Pileki Cave. I can't say the cave is a must-see, but the view from the top of the hill is fantastic. There are also zipline and picnic areas. If you go to Gito Plateau in Rize, I recommend Vartevor Mountain House for its excellent food, breakfast, and delicious desserts.
The Ikizdere Region is perhaps the most attractive area, with the largest plateau and captivating scenery, from hot springs to villages.
The Lakes Region: Take a break at Karadeniz Lake in Yukarı Kavron, and with a short hike, you can reach Çengovit Lakes to see the Kaçkar summit.
You can also visit Mençuna Waterfall and Çat Plateau or Palovit Waterfall.