Bayburt is one of Türkiye’s least-discovered mountain destinations, where vast alpine meadows, cool summer pastures, dramatic mountain scenery, traditional yayla culture, and the powerful Çoruh River create an exceptional environment for nature and adventure tourism. Located between the Black Sea and Eastern Anatolia, Bayburt’s highlands combine the openness of the Anatolian plateau with the rugged beauty of the Soğanlı, Kop, and Kemer mountain ranges.
Unlike the crowded highlands of the eastern Black Sea coast, Bayburt’s yaylas remain quiet, authentic, and largely untouched by mass tourism, making them ideal for travelers seeking hiking, camping, photography, cultural exploration, and peaceful mountain landscapes.
Overview
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Province | Bayburt |
| Region | Eastern Anatolia / Black Sea transition |
| Elevation Range | 1,650–2,900+ m |
| Famous For | Yaylas, alpine meadows, trekking, Çoruh River |
| Best Time to Visit | June–September |
| Recommended Stay | 2–4 days |
Why Visit Bayburt Highlands?
Bayburt offers a different highland experience from the lush forests of Trabzon or Rize. Here you will find:
- Wide alpine plateaus
- Traditional yayla settlements
- Soğanlı Mountains scenery
- Excellent trekking and horseback riding routes
- Cool temperatures during summer
- Authentic village hospitality
- Opportunities for camping under exceptionally clear skies
The Soğanlı Mountains form the natural boundary between Bayburt and Trabzon, and their broad pastures have long been used for seasonal transhumance (yaylacılık). The Bayburt Culture and Tourism Directorate notes that these mountains are particularly suitable for yayla and nature tourism because of their extensive grazing lands and high-altitude landscapes.
The Most Beautiful Highlands of Bayburt
Aydıntepe Yaylası, one of the best-known highland landscapes in Bayburt Province.
1. Aydıntepe Yaylası
Aydıntepe Yaylası is one of the best-known highland areas in Bayburt Province, located northwest of Bayburt city near the Soğanlı Mountains.
Highlights
- Broad alpine meadows
- Small seasonal lakes and wetlands
- Traditional shepherd camps
- Panoramic mountain views
- Excellent summer camping conditions
The surrounding Aydıntepe district sits at about 1,650 m, while the nearby Soğanlı Mountains rise to approximately 2,750 m, creating ideal conditions for highland tourism and outdoor recreation. The area is especially attractive in July and August, when the meadows are fully green and dotted with wildflowers.
Best for: Camping, photography, easy trekking, and experiencing traditional yayla life.
2. Kop Dağı Yaylası
Kop Dağı Yaylası is the most famous mountain tourism area in Bayburt.
Key Features
- Elevation around 2,900 m
- Part of the Kop Dağı Tourism Center
- Expansive mountain scenery
- Summer hiking routes
- Winter snow sports potential
The area is accessible from the Bayburt–Aşkale road and has tourism infrastructure including accommodation and dining facilities. Because of its high elevation, Kop Dağı remains cool even during the hottest summer months.
Activities
- Trekking
- Mountain photography
- Camping
- Birdwatching
- Winter skiing and snow activities
This is the best choice for travelers seeking dramatic high-altitude landscapes.
3. Sultan Murat Yaylası (Bayburt Side)
Although better known from the Trabzon side of the mountains, Sultan Murat Yaylası is also closely connected to Bayburt’s highland culture.
Why It’s Special
- Historic yayla gatherings
- Traditional yayla festivals
- Sweeping views of the Soğanlı range
- Rich pastoral culture
- Cool summer climate
Local festivals celebrating yayla traditions and regional heritage are held during the summer season, attracting visitors from Bayburt and neighboring provinces.
Highland Landscapes of Bayburt
Soğanlı Mountains
The Soğanlı Mountains dominate northern Bayburt and form a transition zone between the Black Sea climate and the continental climate of Eastern Anatolia.
Landscape Characteristics
- Treeless alpine ridges
- High meadows and grazing areas
- Deep valleys carved by streams
- Seasonal wildflower fields
- Wide panoramic horizons
Because the northern slopes receive more moisture from the Black Sea, they are generally greener and cooler than the southern interior.
Outdoor Activities
Trekking
Bayburt is an excellent destination for multi-day trekking.
Recommended Route
Aydıntepe → Soğanlı foothills → Highland meadows → Kop Mountain viewpoints
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 1–2 days
What You’ll See
- Shepherd settlements
- Alpine flowers
- Mountain springs
- Traditional stone shelters
- Panoramic views toward Trabzon and Gümüşhane
The province’s mountain ranges—including Soğanlı, Kop, Kemer, Haldizen, and Kırklar—are considered suitable for trekking, horseback riding, and mountain nature tourism.
Horseback Riding
Traditional yaylacılık culture remains strong in parts of Bayburt, and horseback riding is one of the most authentic ways to explore the high plateaus.
Possible experiences include:
- Riding between yayla settlements
- Visiting shepherd camps
- Watching traditional livestock grazing
- Photographing mountain landscapes from elevated trails
Camping
Bayburt’s highlands are ideal for wild camping because of their:
- Low population density
- Minimal light pollution
- Abundant open space
- Cool nighttime temperatures
Best Camping Areas
| Area | Elevation | Facilities |
| Aydıntepe Yaylası | ~2,000 m | Basic |
| Kop Dağı Yaylası | ~2,900 m | Moderate |
| Soğanlı foothills | 2,100–2,400 m | Minimal |
Bring warm clothing, as temperatures can drop below 50°F (10°C) even in midsummer.
Photography Opportunities
Bayburt’s highlands are particularly rewarding for landscape photographers.
Best Subjects
- Rolling alpine meadows
- Shepherds and grazing flocks
- Wildflowers in June and July
- Mountain sunsets
- Morning mist over the plateaus
- Traditional yayla houses
Best Time of Day
- Sunrise: soft light and mist
- Late afternoon: dramatic shadows on the mountains
- Blue hour: excellent for camping and night-sky photography
The relatively low level of urban development makes Bayburt one of the better places in Türkiye for astrophotography and stargazing.
Cultural Experiences
Yayla Culture
The highlands are not just natural landscapes; they are living cultural spaces where families traditionally move with their livestock during summer.
Visitors may encounter:
- Cheese and butter production
- Traditional horon and bar dances
- Highland folk songs
- Wood-fired bread baking
- Communal tea gatherings
Respectful interaction with local residents can lead to memorable cultural experiences.
Nearby Attractions
Aydıntepe Underground City
Located about 25 km northwest of Bayburt, this remarkable underground settlement stretches for roughly 1 km beneath the town of Aydıntepe. Around 850 m of tunnels, chambers, and halls are open to visitors, making it one of the most unusual historical attractions in the region.
Çoruh River
The Çoruh River is one of Türkiye’s most important rivers for rafting and canoeing.
Activities
- White-water rafting
- Kayaking
- Riverside camping
- Trout fishing in tributary streams
- Scenic valley photography
Combining highland trekking with Çoruh River rafting creates an outstanding adventure itinerary.
Sırakayalar Waterfalls
These waterfalls near Sırakayalar village are popular local picnic and nature spots, especially during the summer months.
Suggested 3-Day Bayburt Highland Itinerary
Day 1 – Aydıntepe & Yayla Exploration
Morning
- Drive from Bayburt to Aydıntepe
- Visit Aydıntepe Underground City
Afternoon
- Continue to Aydıntepe Yaylası
- Short meadow walks and photography
Evening
- Camp or stay in a village guesthouse
Day 2 – Soğanlı Mountains
Morning
- Trek through the Soğanlı foothills
- Visit seasonal shepherd settlements
Afternoon
- Picnic beside mountain springs
- Continue to panoramic ridge viewpoints
Evening
- Traditional village dinner
Day 3 – Kop Dağı Adventure
Morning
- Drive to Kop Dağı Yaylası
- Explore high-altitude trails
Afternoon
- Scenic photography and optional longer hike
Evening
- Return to Bayburt city
Local Highland Cuisine
Foods to Try
Bayburt Ketesi
A rich layered pastry baked in traditional ovens.
Lor Dolması
Chard leaves stuffed with curd cheese and bulgur.
Ayran Aşı Soup
A refreshing yogurt-based soup popular in summer.
Highland Dairy Products
- Fresh yayla butter
- Tulum-style cheese
- Yogurt from mountain pastures
- Clotted cream served with local honey
These foods are especially delicious when prepared in highland villages using fresh summer milk.
Best Time to Visit
June
- Snow begins to melt
- Meadows turn green
- Wildflowers appear
July–August
Peak season
- Warm days (65–80°F / 18–27°C)
- Cool nights
- Full yayla activity
- Best camping conditions
September
Excellent for hiking
- Clear skies
- Fewer visitors
- Golden grass colors
- Crisp mountain air
October–May
- Cold conditions
- Snow common at higher elevations
- Better suited for experienced winter travelers
How to Get There
By Air
The nearest airports are:
| Airport | Distance to Bayburt |
| Erzurum Airport | ~120 km |
| Trabzon Airport | ~140 km |
| Erzincan Airport | ~130 km |
By Road
Bayburt is connected by highway to:
- Erzurum
- Trabzon
- Gümüşhane
- Erzincan
A private car is strongly recommended for exploring the highlands, as public transportation to yayla areas is limited.
Accommodation
In Bayburt City
- Small hotels
- Guesthouses
- Boutique pensions
In the Highlands
Options are more limited and may include:
- Village guesthouses
- Seasonal yayla houses
- Camping areas
- Mountain tourism facilities near Kop Dağı
Advance planning is advisable during summer festival periods.
Travel Tips
What to Pack
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Warm fleece or jacket
- Rain protection
- Sun hat and sunglasses
- Power bank and flashlight
- Camping gear if staying overnight in the yaylas
Safety Notes
- Weather can change rapidly above 2,500 m.
- Mobile coverage may be weak in remote valleys.
- Carry sufficient water and snacks during hikes.
- Inform someone of your route if trekking alone.
Why Bayburt Highlands Are Special
What makes Bayburt unique is the combination of:
Eastern Anatolian Openness
Vast, uncrowded landscapes with endless horizons.
Black Sea Influence
Cooler temperatures and greener northern slopes.
Authentic Pastoral Culture
Traditional yayla life remains visible and functional rather than being purely a tourist attraction.
Adventure Potential
Few regions in Türkiye allow visitors to combine:
- High-altitude trekking
- Yayla culture
- Underground archaeology
- World-class rafting on the Çoruh River
- Dark-sky camping
within such a compact geographic area.
The Bayburt Highlands are among Türkiye’s most underrated mountain destinations. From the flower-filled meadows of Aydıntepe Yaylası to the dramatic heights of Kop Dağı and the cultural richness of the Soğanlı Mountains, the region offers an authentic and deeply rewarding highland experience far from the crowds of the more famous Black Sea resorts.
For travelers who value silence, open skies, traditional pastoral culture, hiking, camping, and genuine local hospitality, Bayburt provides a rare opportunity to experience the untouched spirit of Anatolian yayla life. Whether you spend a weekend exploring a single plateau or several days trekking between mountain villages, Bayburt’s highlands reveal a side of Türkiye that remains wild, spacious, and wonderfully authentic.