The River Firtina River is interesting
not only for the arched bridges spanning it and the
tea plantations lining the banks, but also for the traditional
costumes of the local people. Formed by a number of
streams on the Black Sea side of Kackar Mountains, the
Firtina runs 57 km through lush countryside,
eventually reaching the Black Sea about 2 km west of
Ardesen, Rize.
The arched stone bridges crossing the water add to the
beauty of the Firtina, which is recommended for river
sports along the following course.
COURSE
The town of Camlihemsin is 22 km south of the Rize-Ardesen
road. The course begins around 1 km south of Camlihemsin.
Paddlers should be
cautious of boulders at 5 km, and dangerous passages
at 7 km, 8 km and 9 km, and the attractive Duygulu Falls
are on the western slope at 12 km. The course finishes
at any convenient point before the Firtina reaches the
Black Sea.
The 23 km long course is very rocky, rating a hardship
degree of 3-4-5 in places, depending on the speed of
the water. Extra caution is required during heavy rains.
The Firtina is recommended for river sports all year
round.
