Anzer Plateau and Honey

Anzer Plateau and Honey

Located 35 km southwest of the Ikizdere district of Rize, Anzer Plateau is a beautiful natural spot that encompasses both Lower Anzer (Ciceklikoy) and Upper Anzer (Ballikoy) areas. The plateau is situated 54 km away from Rize's city center.

Anzer Plateau is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, thanks to its stunning scenery and its status as the center of local honey production. The plateau is home to a plethora of flowers that are native to the region, and its honey is considered to be some of the best in the world.

Anzer Plateau and Honey

British-German botanists have researched around 450-500 types of flowers that grow in Anzer Plateau, with 80 to 90 of them being endemic to the region. These flowers are found solely in Ballikoy Anzers, and bees collect nectar from them to produce honey, which is said to be a cure for many ailments.

The first week of June is a great time to visit the plateau, as snowdrops bloom throughout the snowy areas. Bees begin to collect nectar from the flowers in July, and by August, their honey is ready for harvest.

Beekeepers usually gather honey from hives in the first or second week of August, depending on the weather. The amount of honey produced can vary due to bad weather or early mowing of the grass in meadows. In some years, there may be little to no production, making Anzer honey one of the most expensive types of honey in the world.

Anzer honey is not a typical breakfast ingredient; instead, it is mainly used for its healing properties in treating various illnesses. However, it should be consumed in moderation, as eating more than two teaspoons a day can be life-threatening.