Hozboncuk Dag Evi

Gito feels like the mountain retreat Ayder used to be. Ayder has lost that original character, while Gito and places like it still have it. We were there with a big group and found the family who run it so welcoming. The rooms and shared spaces were clean, and you have to see the view. And don’t get mihlama anywhere else.

We only meant to stop for coffee at Gito Plateau, but ended up chatting with the owner for about an hour. She greeted us with a smile even though we arrived early in the morning. Such a warm, sweet lady, and I really enjoyed talking with her.

The owner was helpful with everything, and the view waiting in the morning almost made us forget the hard parts of the stay. Getting there was rough, though. The hotel app listed Ayder Plateau, and the last roughly 10 km on dirt road were a very difficult drive. The wooden rooms carried every sound: footsteps upstairs and a rattling door next door made sleeping almost impossible. The shared bathroom was another big problem, since the shower and toilet were in the same space. Getting up at night to use the toilet was especially awkward.

That valley view from the mountain house, the tea always bubbling on the stove, and the highland air made this feel like a place to unwind. We take a family trip around the Black Sea every year, and this is the most natural and best place we’ve stayed or visited. It offers both accommodation and food, with delicious local dishes. Mrs. Betül and her mother, Aunt Maksude, are incredible cooks. The warm family atmosphere and their smiles and care made us feel like guests in their home, not customers. Everything was simply magnificent. We’re sure to come back every year. Many thanks, and see you next year.