Safe Driving on Black Sea Roads in Winter

A Black Sea winter is a serious challenge for drivers, especially on mountain roads. The routes from Trabzon to Uzungöl and from Maçka to Sümela can be blanketed by snow with very little warning. Being prepared is not optional — it is essential.

1. Vehicle preparation

• Winter tyres are mandatory from December through March.
• Keep snow chains in the boot — particularly if you plan to drive the Maçka–Uzungöl–Çaykara route.
• Check your antifreeze level; visit a garage before winter sets in.
• Use winter-grade screen wash — standard water freezes and ruins the wipers.

2. What to keep in the car

• A blanket or thick coat
• Water and biscuits
• A charger and a power bank
• A torch
• A small snow shovel

3. Driving technique

On snowy or icy roads, leave far more stopping distance than you would normally. No sudden braking, no sudden acceleration. Use engine braking — slow down by shifting to a lower gear.

Reduce speed before bends on the straight approach; avoid braking mid-corner.

4. If you break down

Breaking down in winter is particularly dangerous. While waiting for help:

• Stay inside the vehicle — getting out risks hypothermia.
• Run the engine intermittently and keep a window slightly open (to prevent carbon monoxide build-up).
• Give clear location references — on mountain roads, say something like "7 km past the Maçka junction".

We have known these roads for 20 years. If you break down on the Black Sea roads in winter, we are on our way the moment you call.