From what I've been reading the #1 site (a must see by some) in Trabzon is the Sümela Monastery.

I am wondering, if it is such a good idea to line this tour up for our group. Most are in late 70's and most are not in the bast physical shape.

How difficult / strenuous was it to just get to a clearing (spot) in the forest, just to see the Sümela Monastery?

The Monastery is simply sensational. One of our most memorable experiences on our Black Sea cruise. But it does involve a considerable climb to get there from the closest drop off point. So some members of your group may not be able make the climb. But DO schedule the visit for those who can do it. It is a MUST DO in my book. Pat

The Monastery is wonderful and those members of your group who are able should definitely make the effort. You can't really appreciate it from the view points that you can drive to - it's a long ride from the port to catch just a glimpse of the building - it doesn't really give you any idea of what it is. I have pasted in some pictures for you to get an idea of the steps: there are a lot of them to climb up into the monastery and then there is a winding path, which is paved and a little steep in some places to walk down. It's not that hard to do and you can go slowly. It was one of the highlights of our Black Sea trip last year.

The view of the monastery from the road.


The start of the steps.



Steps again.



Once you climb the last steep staircase you come out on to a platform that was the gatehouse/guardhouse and this is the view looking down into the entry of the monastery.



This is from the entry plaza looking back up towards the gatehouse area.




Some of the paintings inside the chapel. Even the graffiti is ancient.





Enjoy your cruise.

Mary Ellen

Pat thanks for the info
&
Mary Ellen the pictures are beautiful.

I will definitely try to make it up the mountain.