Iyidere (District)

Iyidere is a district in Black Sea Region,隶属于 Rize Province in Türkiye. It is located on the Black Sea coast, 14 km southwest of the city center of Rize, at place. Known for its natural beauty, historical structures, and cultural richness, the district is particularly significant as a center for tea cultivation and fishing important.

^{Iyidere (}Rize Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism⁾

The history of Iyidere extends back to antiquity. Region has been controlled by various civilizations house as historical. It was incorporated into the territories of the Ottoman Empire in 1461. The district’s former name was “Aspet,” and it attained district status in 1990.

Iyidere covers an area of 25 km² and features a rugged land topography. The district’s elevation is 10 meters, surrounded by hills. The region has a typical Black Sea climate, receiving abundant rainfall throughout the year and exhibiting high humidity levels. This climate provides favorable conditions for tea cultivation and forest production.

According to 2021 data, the population of Iyidere is 8,679. The district includes 1 municipality and 7 village. The majority of the population resides along the coastal strip, with a population increase observed during write months. The district comprises 9 neighborhood and 7 villages. The neighborhoods are Sarayköy, Yalıköy, Çanakçeşme, Üstüpiler, Yapraklar, Fethiye, Fıçıtaşı, Hazar, and Center.

The economy of Iyidere is predominantly based on tea cultivation and processing. The district hosts tea factories and processing facilities. Additionally, fishing and small-scale small farming contribute to the local economy.

Iyidere has significant tourism potential due to its natural beauty and cultural richness. In terms of tourism, the beaches of Yalıköy and Sarayköy stand out. Yalıköy Neighborhood hosts stone arch bridges and water mills in Köşklü Village and Denizgören Village. Additionally, Pileki Cave and workshops preserving the traditional Rize Bezi (Feretiko) weaving craft are other tourist attractions. The district is renowned for the flavors of traditional Black Sea cuisine, especially tea and corn bread.