Altindere Valley National Park

Altindere Valley Overview

Altındere Valley National Park, known locally as Altındere Vadisi Milli Parkı, is located in the Maçka district of Trabzon Province in northeastern Turkey.

Encompassing an area of approximately 18.78 square miles (48.64 square kilometers), the park sits within the rugged terrain of the Pontic Mountains, offering a dramatic combination of steep cliffs, forested slopes, and fast-flowing streams.

The park’s centerpiece is the famed Sumela Monastery, a historic Greek Orthodox monastery built into the sheer rock face of Mount Karadağ at an altitude of about 3,900 feet (1,200 meters), attracting both cultural enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The landscape of Altındere Valley National Park is defined by its deep canyons, densely wooded hillsides, and mist-laced mountain peaks. Lush mixed forests cover much of the park, composed predominantly of Oriental spruce, fir, Scots pine, and chestnut trees.

In spring and summer, wildflowers bloom across the valley floors, while alpine meadows higher up present vivid greens dotted with colorful floral patches. The Altındere Stream courses through the valley, carving narrow gorges and contributing to the area’s rich biodiversity. Waterfalls and small cascades are common sights, especially after snowmelt, enhancing the park’s natural allure.

Wildlife is abundant in Altındere Valley, with the dense forest cover providing shelter to a range of species. Among mammals, the Eurasian brown bear, red fox, roe deer, and wild boar are commonly found. The elusive lynx and gray wolf are known to roam the more remote areas.

Birdwatchers can enjoy the presence of several avian species, including the golden eagle, peregrine falcon, and black woodpecker. The region is also home to various owls, jays, and smaller forest birds, making it a vibrant zone for ornithological interest.

One of the park’s most popular features is the Sumela Monastery, which dates back to the 4th century and is embedded into the cliff face like a hidden sanctuary. The monastery complex includes chapels, kitchens, a library, and fresco-covered walls, all surrounded by panoramic views of the valley.

Hiking trails wind through the park, offering visitors both challenging treks and shorter nature walks. Observation decks provide sweeping vistas, while riverside picnic areas are available for more relaxed visits. The park is also popular with photographers and spiritual travelers drawn to its tranquil and remote setting.

Visitors typically explore the park via marked trails, guided cultural tours, or scenic drives along winding mountain roads. Hiking is a leading activity, with routes leading through forests and up to scenic lookouts. Seasonal tours and educational programs offer deeper insights into the park’s ecology and cultural history.

The proximity to Trabzon makes the park accessible for day trips, although many choose to stay longer to explore its full range of offerings.

Conservation efforts in the park focus on preserving its fragile habitats and the historic Sumela Monastery. Erosion control, habitat restoration, and regulations on tourism have been implemented to limit environmental damage. Reforestation and wildlife monitoring have shown success in maintaining ecological balance.

However, challenges persist, including the impact of tourism, illegal hunting, and natural threats like landslides. Ongoing efforts by Turkey’s Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry aim to enhance sustainability while keeping the park open for public appreciation and cultural heritage preservation.

Park Map

Altindere Valley National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

Altındere Valley National Park is also a sanctuary for bird species, thanks to its forest canopies, rocky cliffs, and flowing streams that support a range of nesting and migratory birds.

Golden Eagle
This powerful bird of prey is often seen soaring above the high cliffs. With excellent vision and strong talons, it hunts mammals such as rabbits and foxes.

Eurasian Eagle-Owl
One of the largest owls in Europe, the eagle-owl roosts in rocky outcrops and dense forest. It is nocturnal and feeds on rodents, birds, and small mammals.

Peregrine Falcon
Nesting on the steep cliffs near the monastery, this falcon is the fastest bird in the world. It dives at high speeds to capture birds in mid-air.

Wallcreeper
With vibrant red wings and a unique climbing ability, the wallcreeper is often seen fluttering across rock faces. It hunts insects hidden in cliffside crevices.

Common Buzzard
This medium-sized raptor is frequently seen circling in the sky. It has a varied diet, feeding on small mammals, birds, and carrion, and nests in tall trees or cliffs.

White-throated Dipper
Common along mountain streams, the dipper is a small, plump bird that dives underwater to catch aquatic insects and larvae. It often perches on rocks near fast-flowing water.

Black Woodpecker
The largest woodpecker in Europe, the black woodpecker can be heard drumming on tree trunks. It excavates holes in dead trees to find insects and build nests.

Caucasian Black Grouse
Native to the region’s high forests and meadows, the black grouse is shy and ground-dwelling. Males are known for their elaborate mating displays during spring.

Common Raven
Intelligent and adaptable, the raven is a large, black bird often seen flying over the valleys. It has a wide-ranging diet and is known for its complex vocalizations.

Eurasian Sparrowhawk
This small raptor darts through the forest canopy, chasing birds in flight. It nests in thick trees and is often spotted with a rapid, flapping flight pattern.

Altındere Valley National Park offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and biodiversity, making it a must-visit for wildlife watchers and bird enthusiasts alike.

Altındere Valley National Park, located in the Black Sea region of northeastern Turkey, is best known for its lush forests, dramatic cliffs, and the iconic Sumela Monastery. The park’s rich biodiversity includes a variety of mammals and reptiles that thrive in its temperate climate and mountainous terrain.

Brown Bear
Common in the dense forests of the park, the brown bear is an omnivorous forager feeding on berries, roots, insects, and occasionally small mammals. Despite their size, they are surprisingly shy and elusive.

Grey Wolf
As a top predator in the region, the grey wolf helps maintain ecological balance by preying on deer, wild boars, and smaller mammals. It is social and often moves in packs, though rarely seen.

Red Fox
Agile and highly adaptable, the red fox is frequently encountered in forest edges and open meadows. It feeds on rodents, birds, insects, and fruit, and uses its keen senses for hunting.

European Wildcat
This solitary and nocturnal feline resembles a large domestic cat but is more muscular and wild in behavior. It prefers thick forests and preys on small mammals and birds.

Wild Boar
The wild boar is widespread in the park’s forested areas. It uses its strong snout to root through soil for food such as roots, insects, and acorns, and may be seen at dawn or dusk.

European Pine Marten
With its long body and bushy tail, the pine marten is a skillful climber and predator. It lives in wooded areas, hunting squirrels, birds, and insects, and is most active at night.

Eurasian Otter
Thriving along the streams and rivers of the valley, the Eurasian otter is an expert swimmer. It preys on fish and amphibians and is a good indicator of healthy water ecosystems.

Eastern Hedgehog
This small, spiny mammal is active at night and feeds on insects, worms, and small vertebrates. It inhabits the forest undergrowth and hedgerows and curls into a ball when threatened.

Roe Deer
Graceful and shy, roe deer are found in open meadows and forest clearings. They feed on grasses, herbs, and young shoots, and are most active at dawn and dusk.

Mediterranean Spur-thighed Tortoise
Occasionally spotted in lower, sunnier areas of the park, this tortoise is herbivorous and slow-moving. It prefers dry, rocky environments and hibernates during colder months.