Located on Turkey’s spectacular northeastern Black Sea coast, Hopa is a vibrant port town surrounded by lush green mountains, tea plantations, and the deep blue waters of the Black Sea. Situated just a few kilometers from the Georgian border, Hopa serves as Turkey’s last major coastal town before entering Georgia and acts as an important gateway between the two countries.
Combining stunning natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and strategic importance, Hopa is an ideal stop for travelers exploring Turkey’s eastern Black Sea region.
Nestled at the foot of densely forested mountains, Hopa enjoys one of the most beautiful natural settings along the Black Sea coast. The town is known for its busy harbor, tea production, traditional Laz culture, and easy access to mountain landscapes and border crossings.
Thanks to its location, Hopa has long been an important commercial and transportation center connecting Turkey with the Caucasus region.
History
The Hopa region has been inhabited since ancient times and has been influenced by numerous civilizations, including:
- Colchians
- Greeks
- Romans
- Byzantines
- Georgians
- Ottomans
Its strategic coastal location made it an important trading point throughout history. Today, traces of this multicultural heritage can still be seen in local traditions, cuisine, and architecture.
Top Attractions
Hopa Harbor
Hopa Port
The harbor is one of the town’s most important landmarks. Visitors can enjoy views of fishing boats, cargo vessels, and the Black Sea coastline while strolling along the waterfront.
The port also plays a significant role in regional trade between Turkey and neighboring Georgia.
Black Sea Coastline
The coastline around Hopa offers beautiful sea views, rocky shores, and scenic drives. Numerous cafés and restaurants along the waterfront provide excellent opportunities to relax while enjoying fresh seafood and traditional Black Sea dishes.
Tea Plantations
The surrounding hills are covered with vibrant green tea gardens. Visitors can explore the countryside and learn about tea cultivation, one of the region’s most important agricultural activities.
Sarp Border Gate
Sarp Border Gate
Located approximately 15 kilometers east of Hopa, Sarp is Turkey’s main border crossing with Georgia.
The international boundary passes directly through the village of Sarp, creating a unique atmosphere where two countries meet. Many travelers stop here before continuing to the Georgian city of Batumi.
The crossing is one of the busiest border gates in Turkey and serves as an important link between Europe and the Caucasus.
Cankurtaran Pass
Cankurtaran Pass
The road connecting Hopa to Artvin crosses the dramatic Cankurtaran Pass, one of the most scenic mountain routes in northeastern Turkey.
As travelers ascend from the humid Black Sea coast, the landscape gradually transforms:
- Dense forests and tea gardens
- Mist-covered mountain slopes
- Deep valleys and rivers
- Rocky highland terrain
- Spectacular viewpoints
The route offers unforgettable panoramic views and showcases the remarkable diversity of Artvin’s geography.
Things to Do
Explore the Waterfront
Enjoy a leisurely walk along Hopa’s harbor and seafront while watching fishing boats and local life unfold.
Discover Local Cuisine
The town offers excellent examples of Black Sea cuisine, including:
- Fresh anchovies (Hamsi)
- Black Sea trout
- Cornbread
- Muhlama (cheese fondue)
- Laz Böreği
- Regional teas
Visit Sarp and Georgia
Many visitors use Hopa as a base for a day trip across the border to Georgia, particularly to the nearby city of Batumi.
Explore the Mountains
The surrounding mountains offer opportunities for:
- Hiking
- Nature photography
- Scenic drives
- Village visits
- Birdwatching
Climate
Hopa experiences a humid Black Sea climate.
Summer (June–September)
- Warm and pleasant
- Frequent rainfall
- Lush green scenery
Spring and Autumn
- Mild temperatures
- Beautiful natural landscapes
- Ideal for sightseeing
Winter (December–February)
- Cool and rainy along the coast
- Snow common in higher elevations
Hopa is one of Turkey’s rainiest towns, contributing to its rich vegetation and stunning natural beauty.
Accommodation
Visitors can find a range of accommodation options, including:
- City hotels
- Boutique guesthouses
- Family-run pensions
- Coastal accommodations
Many travelers choose Hopa as an overnight stop while touring the eastern Black Sea region or crossing into Georgia.
Getting There
By Road
Hopa lies on the Black Sea Coastal Highway and is easily accessible from:
- Rize
- Trabzon
- Artvin
- Georgia via Sarp Border Gate
By Air
The nearest airport is:
Rize-Artvin Airport
Located west of Hopa, it provides domestic connections to major Turkish cities.
Nearby Attractions
- Sarp Border Gate
- Artvin
- Borçka Karagöl Nature Park
- Hatila Valley National Park
- Şavşat
- Batumi
Travel Tips
- Carry your passport if planning to cross into Georgia via Sarp.
- Pack rain gear regardless of the season.
- Take time to enjoy the scenic drive through Cankurtaran Pass.
- Sample local tea and Black Sea specialties.
- Visit during spring and summer when the surrounding mountains are at their greenest.
With its dramatic coastal scenery, vibrant port, tea-covered hillsides, and proximity to the Georgian border, Hopa offers travelers a fascinating introduction to Turkey’s eastern Black Sea region and the gateway to the Caucasus.