Gümüshane... Gumushane, one of the most beautiful cities of Türkiye, has been one of the most important cities due to its foundation on the main route from Trabzon to Iran. The old Gumushane city still retains examples of old-style architecture. Since the city has a moderate climate, it is surrounded by fruit groves, especially apples, and gardens of wild roses. Gumushane is a natural stop between Trabzon and Erzurum which is a restful place. Gümüshane, on the ancient trade route between Trabzon and Iran, was once of considerable importance. Many elegant buildings from that period still remain. Set amid fruit groves and wild roses,the town makes a natural stopping point between Trabzon and Erzurum. Take the opportunity to try the local rose - hip syrup and marmalade. A winding drive mid-way up a mountainside takes you to Artvin, the capital of its province. At the foot of the escarpment, a ruined 16th century castle crowns a rocky outcrop. Artvin is a charming city with beautiful old Turkish houses, typical of the region. The area's mild climate makes summer visits delightfully refreshing and every June, crowds of tourists, as well as brightlyclad locals, throng to the Kafkasör festival, where the spectacle of bulls fighting each other highlights the celebration. The adventurous might like to attempt white - water rafting on the wild, romantic Coruh River. In the Artvin area, the nature-reserves around the Karagöl Lakes, 27 km northeast of Borcka and 17 km north of Savsat respectively, have different kinds of pine trees, flora and fauna, including black and brown bears. During the Middle Ages this area came under Georgian sovereignty. The Artvin area is the best place for touring remains of the Georgian past; its wonderfully scenic roads lead to the ruined churches and settlements that stand as the legacy of this period. The best-preserved of these are at Barhal and Ishan, in the awesome Kackar Mountains. Barhal offers some of the best country horseback-riding. Several other churches, in Bagbasi and Camliyamac, are just off the road to Erzurum, which passes by the Tortum Waterfalls and the pristine Tortum Lake. Near Yusufeli are other Georgian churches and settlements : Dörtkilise, Köprügören and Tekkale. East of Artvin, Ardanuc, formerly the Georgian capital, has a famous castle, which overlooks the longest canyon in the region. East from Artvin is Savsat, an alpine village surrounded by meadows of wild flowers and butterflies, rushing streams and quaint chalets.

The local women's organization has established a weaving-instruction center, in an attempt to keep the indigenous carpet and kilim traditions alive. Bilbilan is another important yayla and popular summer residence in the region. You will find the people of this region exceptionally welcoming and helpful.