Iyidere (District)

İyidere is a district in Türkiye’s Black Sea Region, subordinate to the province of Rize. It is located on the Black Sea coast, 14 kilometers southwest of the city center of Rize. The district is known for its natural beauty, historical structures, and cultural richness, and serves as an important center particularly for tea cultivation and fishing.

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

The history of İyidere extends back to antiquity. The region has historically been home to various civilizations. 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.

İyidere covers an area of 25 square kilometers and has a rugged terrain. The district’s elevation is 10 meters, and it is surrounded by hills. The region has a typical Black Sea climate, receiving abundant rainfall throughout the year and maintaining high humidity levels. This climate provides favorable conditions for tea cultivation and forest products.

According to 2021 data, the population of İyidere is 8,679. The district has 1 municipality and 7 villages. The majority of the population resides along the coastline, and a noticeable population increase is observed during the summer months. The district comprises nine neighborhoods and seven villages. The neighborhoods are Sarayköy, Yalıköy, Çanakçeşme, Üstüpiler, Yapraklar, Fethiye, Fıçıtaşı, Hazar and Merkez.

The economy of İyidere is predominantly based on tea cultivation and processing. The district hosts tea factories and processing facilities. In addition, fishing and small-scale agricultural activities also contribute to the local economy.

İyidere has significant tourism potential due to its natural beauty and cultural richness. Yalıköy and Sarayköy beaches are the main tourist attractions. Yalıköy Neighborhood, Köşklü Village and Denizgören Village are home to stone arch bridges and water mills. Additionally, Pileki Cave and workshops preserving the traditional Rize fabric (Feretiko) weaving are other notable tourist sites. The district is renowned for the flavors of traditional Black Sea cuisine, especially tea and corn bread.