Iranian Academics' 1,200‑km Black Sea Bike Tour Ends in Samsun

Three Iranian university lecturers—Siroos Hemmati, Ali Ashraf and Yaser Tolooei—set out from Iran, entered Turkey at Doğubayazıt and followed the Black Sea coast through Artvin, Rize, Trabzon, Giresun and Ordu, covering roughly 1,200 km before finishing in Samsun. Near Trabzon they encountered Belarusian traveler Dima Prokhorov, who joined the group, turning the party into four cyclists.

The team recorded the journey with helmet cameras, pausing frequently at seaside spots, mosque courtyards and parks. Local residents offered food, drinks and assistance, which the cyclists highlighted as a key part of the experience. After completing the ride, they plan to return to Iran by bus via Ağrı.

The travelers described the Turkish hospitality as warm and generous, noting that everywhere they stopped they were welcomed and offered refreshments, leaving a lasting positive impression of the region.