Uzundere
Uzundere offers an officially certified Cittaslow (Slow City) eco-tourism, extreme sports, and medieval stone monastery paradise. Visitors can explore the magnificent 10th-century Haho Monastery (Taşcami)—a beautifully preserved Georgian stone cathedral featuring intricate animal relief carvings—kayak or windsurf on the turquoise waters of Tortum Lake, or experience winter ice-climbing on frozen n
Tourist experience
Uzundere offers an officially certified Cittaslow (Slow City) eco-tourism, extreme sports, and medieval stone monastery paradise. Visitors can explore the magnificent 10th-century Haho Monastery (Taşcami)—a beautifully preserved Georgian stone cathedral featuring intricate animal relief carvings—kayak or windsurf on the turquoise waters of Tortum Lake, or experience winter ice-climbing on frozen natural waterfalls in Uzundere Canyon. The district is also famous for ziplining, mountain biking, and sampling organic figs, walnuts, and pomegranates grown in its unique valley microclimate.
Key points of interest
Investment outlook
Uzundere commands an outstanding Transparent Investment Score of 91.0/100, recognized as Eastern Anatolia's premier Cittaslow-certified eco-tourism, ice climbing resort, and boutique hotel market. Driven by high international eco-tourism demand and microclimate agriculture, residential and hospitality land values average $1,200/m² with rapid annual capital appreciation (~46.5% YoY in USD).
Living here
Residing in Uzundere represents an idyllic, peaceful, and clean Cittaslow lifestyle with exceptionally clean air, fresh spring water, and mild winter weather. Neighborhoods feature garden homes surrounded by fruit orchards, safe community streets, and zero urban noise.
History & cultural identity
Uzundere, dramatically located in a lush mountain valley along the Tortum Stream in northern Erzurum bordering Artvin, is a designated Cittaslow (Slow City) recognized globally for its tranquil lifestyle, ancient Georgian stone architecture, and pristine eco-tourism. Known anciently as Azord, the district served as a major cultural center of the 10th-century Georgian Kingdom of Tao-Klarjeti, housing monumental stone monasteries such as Haho (Hahuli / Taşcami) Monastery. Incorporated into the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century, Uzundere is famous for its Mediterranean-like microclimate, terraced fruit orchards, and extreme outdoor sports.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Uzundere designated as a Cittaslow (Slow City)?+
Uzundere earned official Cittaslow international certification for preserving its traditional culture, pristine environment, organic local gastronomy, and peaceful lifestyle.
What winter extreme sport is Uzundere globally famous for?+
Uzundere is globally famous for winter ice climbing on its dozens of frozen natural waterfall walls inside the canyon.
How far is Uzundere from Central Erzurum?+
Uzundere is located 84 kilometers (a 1-hour drive) north of Central Erzurum along the D-950 Artvin highway.