Leaving Erzincan, the route settles quickly into a calm stretch of high plateau, where the fields open wide and the road carries a steady rhythm toward Bayburt, but well before Bayburt a small lakeside view near Salyazı appears briefly on the right. It’s modest but refreshing, breaking the monotony of the plains with a quiet strip of water glinting beside the fields.

A few minutes later, the landscape begins to rise gently until you reach Şehit Osman Türbesi, the first proper stop. The shrine sits on elevated ground, offering a clear and surprisingly cinematic view of Bayburt Castle in the distance. The two landmarks visually frame each other across the valley one a place of remembrance, the other a fortress carved into the high rock above the river. From the castle side, the perspective reverses, the Şehit Osman Türbesi stands out as a solitary white mark on the hills with a clear view on the river as well.

The castle is the second major photo stop, its rugged walls and volcanic rock base creating a commanding silhouette. After leaving the castle the backside of the castle offers a beautiful view of the castle’s backside and the river, especially as the road hugs the water. It’s a perfect moment to slow down and take in the scenery.

In Bayburt, a coffee or light lunch stop works well. Crossing the river reveals small local shops bakeries, spice sellers, and modest cafés which make for a relaxed, human pause before the road reclaims your attention.

Leaving the city, the climb toward Kop Dağı begins. The landscape shifts to more rugged mountain terrain, and after the summit, the road rewards you with roughly 15 km of enjoyable curves, the most engaging riding section of the day. Once you drop off the pass, the terrain softens again into high plateaus until the fuel stop at Aşkale marks the final transition.

Between Aşkale and Erzurum, the scenery becomes steadily greener, a clear contrast to the drier early stages. Just before reaching your hotel, the elegant Yakutiye Medresesi appears on the left, a final reminder of the region’s deep Seljuk identity.

After check-in, Erzurum offers several sights within reach: Erzurum Castle and the surrounding park, the Double Minaret Madrasa, the Three Kümbets, the Erzurum Museum, the House of Atatürk, and the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque. It’s a compact but rich historical center, ideal for late-afternoon exploration.