Kaçkar by UTMB Puts Rize on the Sports Tourism Map

A Record-Breaking Edition in the Kaçkar Mountains

The Kaçkar by UTMB, held in the province of Rize on Turkey's Black Sea coast, has concluded another successful edition, cementing its place on the international trail-running calendar. Organisers reported a record number of participants, with athletes from more than 40 countries travelling to north-eastern Turkey to test themselves on the rugged courses of the Kaçkar range.

The event, part of the UTMB World Series, offers several distances that wind through high-altitude meadows, misty forests and glacier-carved valleys. This year's races attracted elite runners alongside thousands of amateurs, all eager to experience one of the most scenic and challenging ultra-trails in the region.

Local officials say the event has grown beyond a simple sporting competition. It has become a powerful showcase for Rize's natural and cultural assets, drawing not only runners but also their families, supporters and outdoor enthusiasts who stay on to explore after the finish line.

A Spectacular Backdrop of Mountains and Sea

The Kaçkar Mountains, a sub-range of the Pontic Alps, rise sharply from the Black Sea coastline, creating a landscape of extraordinary contrast. Runners climb from sea-level towns through lush tea plantations and dense forests before reaching alpine pastures known as yaylalar, where traditional wooden villages cling to steep slopes.

The highest peaks exceed 3,900 metres, and the trails pass glacial lakes, rushing streams and fields of wildflowers. The region's cool, humid climate supports a rich biodiversity, and the ever-present mist adds a dramatic atmosphere to the race.

Beyond the race itself, the area offers a wealth of adventure opportunities. Hiking routes such as the Kaçkar Transverse Trail, white-water rafting on the Fırtına River, and paragliding above the Ayder Plateau are just a few of the activities that draw visitors throughout the summer and autumn.

For many international athletes, the combination of sea, mountains and authentic Black Sea culture is unlike any other race location. The event's course has been praised for its technical variety and the warm hospitality of the local communities who staff the aid stations.

Warm Welcome and Local Enthusiasm

From the moment athletes arrived in Rize, they were met with the famous warmth of Turkish hospitality. Villagers along the route cheered runners through the night, offering tea, local honey and kuymak, a traditional cornmeal and cheese dish that has become a favourite among competitors.

The finish-line celebrations in the town of Çamlıhemşin and the nearby Ayder Plateau were filled with music, folk dances and the unmistakable energy of a region proud to host the world. Spectators lined the streets, and local businesses reported one of their busiest weeks of the year.

"We are overwhelmed by the support," said one race official. "The people of Rize have embraced this event, and their enthusiasm is one of the reasons athletes return year after year."

"The Kaçkar by UTMB is not just a race; it is a celebration of the mountains and the people who live among them." — Race organiser

Boosting the Local Economy and Tourism

The economic impact of the event is already being felt across Rize province. Hotels, guesthouses and yayla lodges were fully booked for the race weekend, and many visitors extended their stays to explore the region. Local guides, transport providers and restaurants all reported a significant increase in business.

Tourism officials note that the UTMB brand brings global visibility. The race's live broadcast and social media coverage reached millions, showcasing Rize's landscapes to potential travellers who might never have considered the Black Sea region as a holiday destination.

Authorities are investing in trail maintenance, signage and visitor facilities to ensure the region can handle growing interest. The success of the event has also sparked discussions about extending the tourism season beyond the summer months, with autumn hiking and winter sports on the agenda.

Adventure Beyond the Race

While the ultra-trail is the headline act, Rize offers year-round adventure for all levels. The Fırtına Valley is a hub for rafting and canyoning, while the high plateaus are ideal for trekking, mountain biking and horseback riding. The Black Sea coast, with its pebble beaches and tea gardens, provides a gentler contrast.

Cultural travellers can visit historic stone bridges, Ottoman-era mosques and the bustling markets of Rize city, where the famous Turkish tea is grown, processed and sold. The region's cuisine, based on fresh trout, corn and dairy, is a highlight for food lovers.

For those inspired by the UTMB athletes, local trekking companies offer guided multi-day hikes that follow parts of the race route, allowing visitors to experience the same breathtaking scenery at a more relaxed pace.

Looking Ahead

With the successful conclusion of this year's Kaçkar by UTMB, Rize has firmly established itself on the global sports tourism map. The event's organisers have confirmed that the race will return next year, with plans to expand the programme and attract even more international participants.

As the sun set over the Kaçkar peaks and the last runners crossed the finish line, the message was clear: this is a destination that combines world-class adventure with genuine warmth. For travellers seeking an authentic, active holiday in Turkey, Rize and its mountains are now a must-visit.

For more information on the Kaçkar by UTMB and travel to Rize, keep an eye on TurkeyTripPlanner.com for updates and guides.