Sumela Monastery, Zigana and Hamsikoy Village Tour

The Sumela Monastery, Zigana and Hamsikoy Village Tour provides a captivating exploration of Trabzon’s rich historical and natural tapestry. Visitors can marvel at the Byzantine-era Sumela Monastery, carved into the Pontic Mountains, and traverse the dramatic Zigana Pass with its cascading waterfalls. The tour also includes a visit to the charming Hamsikoy Village, where travelers can enjoy the local culture and savor traditional Turkish cuisine. Throughout the day, the guide’s insightful commentary ensures a comprehensive understanding of this captivating region. What secrets and surprises await those who embark on this extraordinary journey?

Key Points

• A full-day small-group tour exploring the historical and natural wonders of Trabzon, including the renowned Sumela Monastery, Zigana Pass, and Hamsikoy Village.
• Comfortable transportation, English commentary, and personalized attention provide a seamless experience with hotel pickup/drop-off and included fees.
• Sumela Monastery, a Byzantine-era Greek Orthodox structure, offers impressive architecture, religious artifacts, and stunning frescoes in a breathtaking mountain setting.
• The majestic Zigana Pass showcases the region’s dramatic gorges, cascading waterfalls, and alpine meadows, providing panoramic vistas of the Pontic landscape.
• Hamsikoy Village, a quintessential Turkish village, allows for an opportunity to browse local artisanal goods and experience the rural life and pastoral beauty of the region.

Tour Overview

This full-day small-group tour allows visitors to experience the historical and natural wonders surrounding the city of Trabzon. It avoids the stress of organizing travel logistics by providing comfortable transportation, English commentary, and personalized attention.

The highlights of the tour include the renowned Sumela Monastery, the magnificent Zigana Pass, and the charming Hamsikoy Village. Throughout the tour, you will be immersed in the rich culture and stunning landscapes of the region, making it an ideal way to discover the area’s most significant attractions.

With hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as included museum and entrance fees, this tour offers a seamless and enjoyable experience for travelers.

Itinerary

The tour begins with a visit to the renowned Sumela Monastery, a stunning Byzantine-era structure nestled in the Pontic Mountains. Guests will explore the monastery’s impressive architecture, religious artifacts, and breathtaking natural surroundings.

Next, the tour heads to the magnificent Zigana Pass, where travelers can marvel at the rugged mountain landscape and enjoy the scenic drive.

The final stop is the charming Hamsikoy Village, where visitors can enjoy the local culture, stroll through the quaint streets, and savor traditional Turkish cuisine.

Throughout the day, the tour guide provides insightful commentary, ensuring guests have a comprehensive understanding of the region’s rich history and natural wonders.

Sumela Monastery

Sumela Monastery, a stunning Byzantine-era structure, sits nestled in the rugged Pontic Mountains overlooking the lush, forested landscape.

This incredible 4th-century Greek Orthodox monastery was carved directly into the sheer rock face, making it a true architectural marvel.

Visitors can explore the monastery’s numerous buildings, chapels, and libraries, all meticulously preserved and brimming with religious artifacts and stunning frescoes.

As the tour’s highlight, Sumela Monastery offers a unique glimpse into the region’s rich history and spiritual heritage.

With its breathtaking setting and well-preserved structures, it’s no wonder this site is considered one of Turkey’s most impressive and awe-inspiring attractions.

Zigana Pass

After exploring the stunning Sumela Monastery, the tour continues on to the majestic Zigana Pass, a breathtaking mountain crossing that offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding Pontic landscape.

The winding road takes travelers through dramatic gorges, past cascading waterfalls, and along alpine meadows blanketed in wildflowers.

At the highest point, the group can gaze out over the sweeping views of the Pontic Mountains, a sight that’s sure to leave them in awe.

With its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, the Zigana Pass is a highlight of the tour that showcases the incredible diversity of the region surrounding Trabzon.

Hamsikoy Village

One of the final stops on the tour is the charming Hamsikoy Village, nestled amidst the verdant hills and valleys of the Trabzon region.

This quintessential Turkish village offers visitors a glimpse into the traditional rural life and time-honored customs of the local people.

Winding through the narrow streets, you’ll discover quaint stone houses, ancient churches, and friendly locals going about their daily routines.

The village is renowned for its handcrafted textiles, pottery, and woodwork, providing an opportunity to browse local artisanal goods.

As you stroll through the peaceful surroundings, you’ll be struck by the timeless tranquility and pastoral beauty that define this picturesque corner of northeastern Turkey.

Tour Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, expert tour guiding, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Plus, museum and entrance fees as well as a National Park shuttle service fee are covered.

This full-day small-group tour ensures a hassle-free experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying the historical and natural wonders surrounding Trabzon.

With personalized attention and English commentary, you’ll be able to make the most of your time and gain a deeper understanding of the sites you visit.

Whether you’re interested in the renowned Sumela Monastery, the magnificent Zigana Pass, or the charming Hamsikoy Village, this tour provides a comprehensive and inclusive way to explore the region.

Meeting Point and Pickup

Guests can either head directly to the meeting point at Atatürk Square (Meydan) in front of the Exchange Office or request pickup from their accommodation.

The tour’s meeting point is conveniently located at this central square, making it easy for participants to find.

Alternatively, the tour operator provides a pickup service, allowing guests to be collected directly from their hotels or other lodgings.

This flexible arrangement ensures a stress-free start to the day’s activities.

Whether choosing to make their own way or opting for a pickup, guests will receive personalized attention and seamless transportation to the tour’s first destination, the renowned Sumela Monastery.

Tour Details

This tour accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers per group, providing a personalized experience. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and infants must sit on laps during the tour.

Participants should note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it doesn’t require an overly demanding level of physical fitness. The tour’s proximity to public transportation options makes it accessible for a range of travelers.

• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions permitted
• Near public transportation, but not wheelchair accessible
• Moderate physical fitness level required
• Confirmation received at the time of booking

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour?

The tour company generally offers a set itinerary, but may allow some customization based on guest preferences. Guests can inquire about options to adjust the tour to better suit their interests and needs.

Can I Request Additional Stops Along the Way?

Yes, guests can request additional stops along the tour route. The tour provider may accommodate such requests, subject to availability and feasibility. Guests should discuss any desired modifications with the tour operator prior to booking to ensure a personalized experience.

What Should I Bring for the Tour?

For the tour, guests should bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a camera, and any necessary personal items. Dressing in layers is recommended to accommodate changing weather conditions during the day’s activities.

Is There a Vegetarian/Dietary Option for Lunch?

The tour company offers vegetarian and other dietary options for lunch upon request. Guests with specific dietary needs should inform the tour provider in advance to ensure appropriate accommodations are made during the tour.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs During the Tour?

Yes, travelers can purchase souvenirs during the tour. The tour includes stops at various locations, providing opportunities to browse local shops and markets for unique handicrafts, traditional products, and other mementos to bring home from the experience.

Recap

The Sumela Monastery, Zigana and Hamsikoy Village Tour offers a captivating journey through Trabzon’s historical and natural wonders.

Visitors can marvel at the impressive Sumela Monastery, explore the dramatic Zigana Pass, and enjoy the local culture of Hamsikoy Village.

This comprehensive tour provides a deep understanding of the region’s rich heritage, guided by expert commentary, ensuring a memorable experience for all.