Uzungöl Guide: The Lake's Story, Walks and Photo Spots

Uzungöl is a lake in a valley surrounded by steep, wooded slopes in Trabzon's Çaykara district. There is a level walking path around the lake; the wooden houses and mosque on the shore make up one of the most photographed views on the Black Sea. On day three of our Black Sea tour, you stop at Uzungöl after Trabzon.

How did Uzungöl form?

Uzungöl is a dammed lake, formed when large masses of rock and earth broke away from the slopes and blocked the stream flowing through the valley. In geography, lakes like this are called landslide-dammed lakes. The lake's narrow, elongated shape also gives it its name (uzun göl means “long lake”). Seeing this formation, often used as an example in geography lessons, on the spot is an interesting experience, especially for students and curious travellers.

What to do around the lake

Uzungöl is not a large area and can be explored without rushing.

• Lakeside walk: The walking path around the lake is mostly level. It is comfortable for families with children and older visitors too.
• The lakeside mosque and wooden houses: The lake's best-known view is the mosque on the shore with the wooded slopes rising behind it.
• Tea break: Watching the view over a glass of Black Sea tea at one of the lakeside cafés is an essential part of any visit to Uzungöl.
• Local products: There are small shops selling honey, hazelnuts, dried fruit and handmade goods.

Photo spots

Uzungöl's postcard shot is the angle that shows the lake and the lakeside mosque in the same frame. To get it, simply walk a little way along the lake path and turn back. A few suggestions:

• Morning: If there is little wind, the surface of the lake reflects the mountains and houses like a mirror.
• Misty days: Mist is common on the Black Sea. Mist drifting down the slopes gives the view a fairy-tale feel; see it as an opportunity rather than bad luck.
• High angles: If you climb a little up the slopes around the lake, its long shape shows more clearly.

Uzungöl through the seasons

• Spring: The slopes turn green and the streams surge with meltwater.
• Summer: This is when visitor numbers peak. The weather is mild and the days are long.
• Autumn: Yellow and orange tones appear in the forests and the crowds thin out.
• Winter: The area is often covered in snow. The scenery is very impressive, but you need to keep an eye on road and weather conditions.

We describe the Black Sea's general seasonal features in more detail in our when to go article.

How to get to Uzungöl

Uzungöl is reached by road from Trabzon city centre, at the end of a road that winds into the mountains. The road follows a wooded stream valley and the scenery changes all the way. On our tour, transport is by coach; after visiting the Atatürk Mansion and Hagia Sophia in Trabzon, you continue to Uzungöl, and the day ends in Çamlıhemşin.

How long do you stay at Uzungöl on the tour?

Uzungöl is one of several stops visited on the same day in the programme. The length of the stop is decided by the guide according to the flow of the day and road conditions. It is planned to allow time for a walk around the lake, photos and a tea break. An overnight stay at the lake or a long plateau hike is not part of the programme.

Practical notes

• Raincoat: The weather on the Black Sea changes quickly. Even in summer, carry a light raincoat or umbrella.
• Shoes: Although the walking path is level, choose shoes that won't slip on wet ground.
• Layers: The valley where the lake lies is cooler than the coast. Even in summer, a light cardigan comes in handy.
• Respect: Don't enter homes or private gardens around the lake, and take your rubbish with you.

Who are you going with?

For families: Uzungöl is an easy stop with children. As the path around the lake is level, you can even get around with a pushchair. Make sure young children don't go too close to the water's edge; the shore can be slippery in places.

For older visitors: It is a stop that doesn't require long walks, where you can sit and enjoy the view. The lakeside tea gardens are good places to rest.

For photography lovers: Thanks to the lake's reflections, the mist and the changing light, Uzungöl is a place where you can capture very different shots in a short time. Even if it is overcast, don't leave your camera in your bag.

What to eat at Uzungöl

The restaurants around the lake serve well-known Black Sea dishes: trout, kuymak, black cabbage soup and cornbread. At Uzungöl, meals and shopping are done in free time. We describe the region's cuisine in detail in our Black Sea cuisine article.

After Uzungöl

After Uzungöl, the route continues to Rize's Çamlıhemşin district and from there to Fırtına Stream and Ayder Plateau. After the calm lake views of Uzungöl, the fast-flowing water and stone bridges of Fırtına Stream show another side of Black Sea nature.

Seeing Uzungöl away from the crowds

Uzungöl can be crowded, especially in summer and at weekends. Moving a little away from the busy sections of the main lake path helps you find a quieter view. Rather than waiting at a single spot by the lake, walk along the path and try different angles.

Frequently asked questions

Which province is Uzungöl in?

Uzungöl is in Trabzon's Çaykara district. It is reached by road from Trabzon city centre.

Can you walk around Uzungöl?

Yes. There is a mostly level walking path around the lake, and you can go round it without rushing.

What is the best season for Uzungöl?

Summer is the most popular period, with mild weather and long days. Autumn colours and winter snow have their own beauty too.

Do you stay overnight at Uzungöl on the tour?

No. Uzungöl is one of the stops on day three; the same day you travel on to Çamlıhemşin.