Information
Landmark: Uzungöl LakeCity: Trabzon
Country: Turkey
Continent: Asia
Uzungöl Lake, Trabzon, Turkey, Asia
Overview
Uzungöl Lake (Turkish: Uzungöl Gölü) sits in the Çaykara district of Trabzon Province and ranks among the Black Sea region’s most famous natural wonders, its still waters framed by steep, green mountain slopes.Ringed by mountains and thick forests, this tranquil lake catches the light like glass, drawing nature lovers, photographers, and travelers eager for a quiet escape.Uzungöl sits high in the Eastern Black Sea Mountains, about 1,100 meters-3,600 feet-above sea level, where mist often clings to the pine-covered slopes.The lake rests in a quiet valley, hemmed in by steep mountain slopes and dark pine forests that smell of resin.In Turkish, “Uzungöl” means “Long Lake,” a nod to the way the water stretches out like a narrow ribbon between the hills.It stretches about 1.5 kilometers, or 0.9 miles, and at its broadest-roughly the length of six football fields-it spans around 600 meters, about 1,970 feet.The Haldizen Stream runs down from the surrounding mountains, its cold, clear water spilling into the lake and keeping it fresh.Centuries ago, a massive landslide blocked the valley, and over time the waters pooled to create what we now call Uzungöl Lake.A landslide choked off the Haldizen Stream, piling earth and stone into a dam that trapped the water and shaped the lake.Over the years, this natural formation slowly shaped itself into the sparkling lake we see today.For years, Uzungöl sat quietly in the mountains, known mostly to locals, but its mirror-like lake and dramatic green slopes have drawn more and more visitors in recent years.These days, it’s among the busiest spots in Trabzon province, with visitors crowding the stone steps from morning to dusk.The lake rests in the shadow of towering peaks, with the Kaçkar Mountains rising behind it-white with snow in winter, draped in deep green leaves when summer comes.The hills and forests around Uzungöl teem with wildflowers and birds, drawing anyone who loves nature, wildlife, or capturing a fox’s leap through a camera lens.The lake comes alive in spring and autumn, when the trees blaze with reds and golds, their reflections rippling across the water.The lake’s glassy, clear water makes a perfect shot, catching the sharp reflection of mountains and dark green pines that ring its shore.Hiking around Uzungöl is a treat, with winding trails that lead through pine-scented forests, past rushing waterfalls, and up to ridge tops where the lake and mountains spread out in a breathtaking view.Several trails wind down to Haldizen Stream, where you can hear the gentle rush of water and breathe in the crisp, cool mountain air.Towering above Uzungöl, the Kaçkar Mountains lure seasoned hikers with steep, rugged trails and the chance to spot wild orchids or hear the rustle of mountain goats in the brush.Boat Tours: The lake’s wide stretch of water is perfect for an afternoon out in a small boat, oars dipping quietly into the calm surface.Rent a small boat, push off from the dock, and drift across the lake’s calm, glassy water.A boat ride lets you see the landscape from a fresh angle, the hills rolling past as water laps gently against the hull.Wildlife watching around Uzungöl offers plenty to see-you might spot a hawk circling overhead, a deer slipping between trees, or other creatures that make their home in these mountains.It’s a fantastic place to spot herons gliding over the water and for nature lovers eager to explore the region’s vibrant ecosystem.Photography: Uzungöl draws photographers from everywhere, thanks to the mirror-like lake that perfectly reflects the green, rugged slopes of the surrounding mountains.At sunrise or sunset, the light rolls over the hills in a way that feels almost magical, turning grass tips to gold.In Uzungöl, a quiet village tucked beside the lake’s glassy water, you can catch a real glimpse of traditional Turkish Black Sea life.The village is famous for its wooden houses, their pine scent drifting through the air, and the warm, genuine welcome of its Turkish hosts.You can wander through the village’s narrow lanes, stroll along the lake’s quiet shore, and soak in the gentle hush of the place.At the local markets, you’ll find traditional handicrafts alongside regional treats like golden honey, creamy cheese, and smooth, hand-carved wooden bowls.Fishing’s big here-the lake’s clear water holds trout, bass, and other species that keep anglers coming back.Locals do most of the fishing, but visitors who love the sport can cast a line into the lake’s clear, rippling water.Sip a steaming glass of traditional Turkish tea in a cozy café or bustling restaurant, all while taking in the shimmering view of the lake.Local cooking draws rich flavor from the Black Sea, serving up muhlama-warm cornmeal melting with cheese and butter-alongside crisp-fried hamsi and steaming bowls of karalahana çorbası, the region’s hearty black cabbage soup.In Uzungöl, you’ll find plenty of places to stay-hotels, cozy guesthouses, even wooden bungalows that blend right into the green slopes and misty air.From many of these spots, you can take in sweeping views of the lake glittering below and the mountains rising sharp against the sky.Scattered among the pines, you’ll find traditional wooden chalets and cozy mountain lodges where guests can settle in for a quiet retreat surrounded by crisp, fresh air.If you like to camp, you’ll find marked spots around the lake where you can pitch a tent, hear the water lap against the shore, and soak in the fresh air.Uzungöl sits roughly 99 kilometers (61 miles) from Trabzon, and the drive-past winding mountain roads and pine-covered hills-takes about an hour and a half to two hours.The road to the lake is smoothly paved and easy to follow, so even first-time visitors can reach the water without trouble.You can also get to the lake by public transport-buses and small minibuses leave from Trabzon and wind their way to Uzungöl, past green hills and rushing streams.Still, it’s best to go by car-you can stop when you like, maybe to catch the scent of pine drifting in through the open window.The best time to see Uzungöl is in spring or summer, when warm breezes drift through the valley and the hills glow a deep, fresh green.Autumn’s a great time to visit, when the trees blaze with red and gold and the whole landscape feels freshly painted.Winter brings a different kind of magic to Uzungöl, when snow drapes the rooftops and quiet paths, turning the whole valley into a serene winter wonderland.Snow-capped peaks rise above a frozen lake, casting a quiet magic over the scene.It’s the kind of place where you can hear your boots crunch in the stillness.If you’re exploring Turkey’s Black Sea coast, don’t miss Uzungöl Lake-a shimmering stretch of water ringed by green hills that’s truly unforgettable.Wrapped in lush forests and shadowed by towering mountains, its stunning scenery offers a peaceful retreat where you can hike quiet trails, feel the cool mountain air, and enjoy the charm of traditional Turkish village life.Whether you’re hiking through pine-scented trails, snapping photos of mist curling over the water, or just lounging by the lake, Uzungöl will etch its wild beauty into your memory.
