Anzer (Ballıköy) Pasture

Anzer Plateau is located within the boundaries of Ballıköy (formerly known as Anzer), in the İkizdere district of Rize province, in the Black Sea Region of Türkiye. Situated at an average elevation of 2100 meters above sea level, the plateau lies southwest of the İkizdere district center and is embedded in a mountainous topography. Anzer Plateau is surrounded by Ovit Mountain to the east, extensions of the Kaçkar Mountains to the west, and the İkizdere Valley to the north.

The plateau features a rich geographical structure characterized by extensive meadows, deep valleys, and high ridges. It is also recognized as one of the most important high-altitude plateaus in the Eastern Black Sea region.

^{Photo of Anzer Plateau (}Kackar⁾ 

Anzer Plateau exhibits a typical alpine climate due to its high elevation. Summers are cool and short; winters are marked by heavy snowfall and low temperatures. The humid atmospheric conditions have enabled the development of a rich vegetation cover.

The plateau is among the world’s few regions notable for its endemic flora. Approximately 400 flowering plant species have been identified on Anzer Plateau, of which around 80 are found exclusively in this area. This biological diversity holds significant value not only for Türkiye but also for the world.

The richness of the vegetation contributes to an ecological balance that supports wildlife. Species such as bear, roe deer, wild goat, and various bird species are observed in the region. Additionally, these plants serve as the primary source for the production of the famous Anzer honey.

Anzer Plateau is the only region in the world where Anzer honey is produced. This honey is made exclusively from nectar collected by bees from endemic flowers found only on the plateau and is renowned for its high antioxidant content. Bees gather nectar from numerous rare and medicinally valuable flowers to produce the honey.

Due to its limited production volume, Anzer honey is highly valuable. Honey that passes annual laboratory analyses conducted by Rize University is sold under certification through cooperatives. It is believed to strengthen the immune system, provide energy, and offer therapeutic benefits for certain ailments.

This production, a vital source of livelihood for the local population, also brings economic vitality to the region.

Anzer Plateau is a settlement where the traditional transhumance culture has been actively maintained for centuries. In late spring, the local population migrates from Ballıköy to the plateau, where they remain throughout the summer engaging in small-scale livestock farming, dairy production, and beekeeping.

The plateau’s architecture consists of stone-based wooden structures. Dwellings are typically designed for temporary habitation. During the summer months, social life flourishes on the plateau, with traditional festivals, communal labor practices, and small-scale celebrations taking place.

Anzer Plateau holds significant potential for both nature tourism and health tourism. Its high elevation, clean air, quiet environment, and endemic flora create an ideal setting for hiking, botanical tours, and photography.

Visitors can camp on the plateau or stay in Ballıköy. In addition to day trips, in recent years, interest in the plateau has led to the establishment of boutique accommodation facilities. However, adopting a sustainable tourism approach that avoids environmental damage is essential.

Access to Anzer Plateau is via the road from Rize city center through İkizdere district to Ballıköy. From Ballıköy, the road to the plateau is accessible during summer months by special vehicles or minibuses. Part of the road is asphalted, while the final sections are stabilized or dirt roads.

Electricity infrastructure is partially available on the plateau; internet access is weak. Mobile signal can be received in some areas. Due to its preserved natural state, the plateau has limited infrastructure.

Due to its biological diversity and unique honey production, the conservation of Anzer Plateau is of great importance. The area was designated a “Natural SIT Area” in 1995. To prevent degradation of its flora, controlled development, limited agriculture, and restricted visitor capacity must be enforced.

Beekeeping activities on the plateau are conducted under cooperative supervision and follow a production model based on scientific analysis. This ensures both ecological balance and economic sustainability.