Pollatli Waterfall

Pollatli Şelale

A spectacular 40-meter waterfall cascading into a natural basin near Sumela Monastery, accessible via a scenic hiking trail through forested terrain. The combination of thundering water, lush vegetation, and cool mountain air makes it a refreshing attraction.

Things to do

• Hike to Waterfall Basin — Trek through dense forest on the marked trail to reach the 40-meter cascade and swim in the cool natural pool at its base.
• Photography at Sumela Monastery — Visit the nearby cliff-side Greek Orthodox monastery, built into the rock face, which offers dramatic views and pairs well with a waterfall visit.
• Forest Nature Walk — Explore the surrounding Black Sea highland forest to spot local bird species, wild plants, and enjoy the cool mountain microclimate.
• Picnic at the Falls — Pack local bread and cheese to enjoy a meal beside the thundering water while listening to the natural soundtrack.
• Rock Scrambling and Exploration — Climb around the natural basin rocks and explore smaller cascades and cave formations in the surrounding area.
• Sunrise or Sunset Visit — Time your hike to catch the waterfall during golden hour when mist and light create magical photographic conditions.

Food to try

• Hamsi (Black Sea Anchovy) — Fresh small fish grilled simply with lemon and olive oil, a signature regional dish found in nearby village restaurants.
• Mıhlama (Rize Cheese Bread) — Warm cornmeal and melted local cheese dish with butter, commonly served at mountain lodges near hiking areas.
• Rize Tea with Mountain Honey — Sample the region's famous black tea paired with local mountain honey, available at small tea houses near the trailhead.
• Kuymak (Cornmeal Comfort Dish) — A creamy mixture of cornmeal, butter, and cheese that provides hearty sustenance for hikers in local cafés.
• Freshwater Trout from Mountain Streams — Locally caught and grilled trout is served at small restaurants in nearby Altındere Valley villages.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Monastery Traditions — Though the Sumela Monastery nearby is historically Greek Orthodox, be respectful of its sacred significance and dress modestly when visiting.
• Trail Etiquette and Seasons — Visit between May and September when trails are safe; the area can be treacherous in winter, and locals prefer guided visits during rainy months.
• Greet with Turkish Courtesy — Simple greetings like 'Merhaba' (hello) and 'Teşekkür ederim' (thank you) are appreciated by local guides and villagers.
• Support Local Guides — Hire experienced local hiking guides from Altındere Valley to learn about flora, safety, and regional history while supporting the community.