Top 20 Lakes in Turkey
Lakes in Turkey offer a diverse range of natural and man-made water bodies across various geographical regions. The country's landscape includes vast saline lakes, freshwater havens, and dam reservoirs, providing varied ecosystems and geological features. These areas often feature historical sites, unique flora and fauna, and opportunities for outdoor activities. Turkey's lakes are integral to its natural heritage and provide resources for irrigation, energy, and drinking water.
Best lakes in Turkey
- The most popular lakes include Yeşilçam Park with Fountain and Pond, a lake and facility located along the Mediterranean coast. This park is a green oasis offering views and a peaceful retreat.
- Another must-see spot is Dim Dam, a man-made monument and lake. This dam is used for irrigation, energy generation, and drinking water supply, with recreational facilities nearby.
- Visitors also love Doyran Dam Lake, a picturesque reservoir. It offers views of the surrounding mountains and is a family-friendly location.
- Turkey is known for its diverse range of lakes, including saline lakes, freshwater bodies, and dam reservoirs. These vary from large natural lakes to smaller, man-made water features.
- The lakes in Turkey are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 70 highlights and 20 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 23, 2026
Karaalioğlu Park
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Dim Dam
Highlight • Monument
The Dim dam was built in the years 1997-2007 as a stone dump dam with water-side concrete sealing. It is used for irrigation, energy generation and drinking water supply.
The barrier structure is 123.5 m high (above the valley floor) and has a volume of 4.8 million m³. The reservoir covers an area of 5 km² and has a storage volume of 240 million m³.
The dam is designed for irrigating an area of 5312 ha. The Dim Dam hydroelectric power station has an installed capacity of 38.25 megawatts. The regular working capacity is 122 GWh per year.
(Source: de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dim-Talsperre)
Below the dam wall, almost the entire Dimcay River runs along, many small cozy little river restaurants.
Here you can sit comfortably with food and drink on small platforms in the water and let your feet dangle in the water.
There are also a lot of small aqua parks with slides and all kinds of other attractions. There is something here for the whole family.
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Dim Dam
Highlight • Lake
The dam was constructed in the 1990s as a hydroelectric power plant and irrigation system, but it has since become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The area surrounding the dam has been developed with restaurants, picnic areas, and other recreational facilities, making it an ideal spot for families and groups to spend a day enjoying the outdoors.
Visitors can take a boat tour on the dam, swim in the crystal-clear water, or relax in the shaded picnic areas. There are also hiking trails and other activities available for those who want to explore the surrounding hills and forests.
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Oymapınar Dam
Highlight • Monument
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Sulphur Spring and Bathing Lake
Highlight • Lake
Access is via various boardwalks and guides. Incidentally, one can also stop here in the "Blue Termal Cafe". We liked it here very much!
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Narlıgöl Crater Lake
Highlight • Lake
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View of Ölüdeniz Lagoon
Highlight • Viewpoint
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View of Inceburun Bay
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Gediz Delta Bird Paradise
Highlight • Lake
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Altınbeşik Cave
Highlight • Cave
The cave is home to the largest underground lake in Turkey. In summer and winter, you can take guided boat tours into the interior of the cave. In winter and spring, the water level is too high for this.
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Tips from the Community
This section comes as a very big surprise... I like these kinds of climbs, but I wouldn't trust the standard hiker on the Lykian Way with such a path... unfortunately, there is also no warning beforehand anywhere, so one could possibly bypass this section.
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Beautiful view down onto the bay of Kalkan shining in many shades of blue... usually at least one sailboat is anchored... a beautiful photo motif... however, the view of the bay from the headland is the most beautiful
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Beautiful view over the bay of Kalkan to the peninsula opposite
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Here the view is still a bit overgrown with bushes... a few meters further on you have a completely clear view... however, this part of Kalkans is not pretty to look at, an unattractive tourist settlement
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From the narrow hiking trail through the macchia above the bay, you have beautiful views of the bay and the islets off the coast every few meters.
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On the first ascent of the Lycian Way, you have a magnificent view of the beautiful long sandy beach of Ölüdeniz and the blue lagoon... a breathtaking motif
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Antalya's best viewpoint, especially in the evening at sunset... From the park, you have a brilliant view of the mountains along the Mediterranean coast... if you hike the Lycian Way, you will cross these mountains a few weeks later... In the evening, all sorts of people gather on the wall and enjoy a sundowner with this magnificent view.
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After the first few kilometers, you can enjoy a beautiful view during a water break.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes in Turkey are particularly family-friendly?
Several lakes in Turkey offer great experiences for families. Yeşilçam Park with Fountain and Pond provides a green oasis in Antalya. Both Dim Dam and Doyran Dam Lake are popular man-made reservoirs with recreational facilities. Lake Beyşehir, with its sandy beaches and boat rides, and Sapanca Lake, known for its tranquil atmosphere and lakeside activities, are also excellent choices for families.
Are there lakes in Turkey with significant historical or cultural sites nearby?
Yes, Turkey's lakes often blend natural beauty with rich history. Lake Van is famous for the ancient Armenian Akdamar Church on Akdamar Island. Lake Bafa, once part of the Aegean Sea, is surrounded by ancient ruins like Heracleia and stone tombs. Lake Eğirdir also features ancient ruins, offering a glimpse into the past alongside its natural charm.
What unique natural phenomena can I observe at Turkey's lakes?
Turkey's lakes offer several unique natural sights. Lake Tuz is renowned for its vibrant pink hue during summer due to pink algae, creating a surreal landscape. Lake Salda, often called the 'Turkish Maldives,' boasts pristine white sandy beaches and strikingly turquoise waters due to its unique hydromagnesite composition. Yedigöller (Seven Lakes) National Park is famous for its diverse forests that display spectacular autumn foliage.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes in Turkey?
The areas around Turkey's lakes are perfect for various outdoor activities. You can find opportunities for mountain biking, hiking, and boat rides at Lake Beyşehir. Sapanca Lake is ideal for bicycling and relaxing. For more structured routes, consider exploring the region's gravel biking trails, waterfall hikes, or road cycling routes, many of which pass by scenic lake areas.
Which lakes are best for birdwatching in Turkey?
Turkey's lakes are vital habitats for many bird species. Lake Beyşehir is a paradise for bird watchers due to its abundant flora and fauna. Lake Tuz is a significant breeding ground for flamingos and other bird species. Lake Bafa is also a critical sanctuary for various bird species, making it a popular spot for birdwatching enthusiasts.
Are there any lakes in Turkey known for therapeutic or unique water properties?
Yes, some Turkish lakes are noted for their special water properties. Lake Van's saline soda waters are considered therapeutic for skin ailments. Lake Salda's hydromagnesite-rich waters are also believed to have dermatological benefits. Additionally, the Sulphur Spring and Bathing Lake offers warm, turquoise waters from thermal springs, though it has a distinct smell.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes in Turkey?
The best time to visit depends on the lake and your desired experience. Summer is ideal for seeing Lake Tuz's pink hue and enjoying water activities. Autumn is spectacular at Yedigöller National Park for its vibrant foliage. Generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities around most lakes, avoiding the peak heat of summer or the cold of winter.
Can I find hiking trails near the lakes in Turkey?
Absolutely. Many lakes in Turkey are surrounded by natural landscapes perfect for hiking. While specific difficulty levels vary, you can find trails ranging from easy strolls to more challenging routes. For example, the areas around Uzungöl and Lake Beyşehir offer numerous hiking opportunities. You can explore various waterfall hikes that often incorporate lake views.
Which lakes are popular for scenic views and photography?
Many lakes in Turkey offer breathtaking scenery for photography. Lake Tuz's pink waters and salt crust provide a unique, otherworldly backdrop. Lake Salda's turquoise waters and white sands are often compared to the Maldives. Uzungöl, nestled in a valley with dense forests and mountains, offers picturesque views. The Narlıgöl Crater Lake also provides stunning volcanic landscapes.
Are there any lakes in Turkey that are good for swimming?
Yes, several lakes are suitable for swimming. Lake Salda is known for being Turkey's cleanest lake, with pristine turquoise waters perfect for a dip. Lake Eğirdir also offers crystal-clear waters popular for swimming. Some man-made lakes like Dim Dam also have areas where visitors can swim.
What are some lesser-known or 'hidden gem' lakes in Turkey?
While many lakes are popular, some offer a more secluded experience. Balık Lake in Ağrı, recognized as Turkey's highest lake, provides breathtaking views amidst volcanic landscapes and is less frequented. The Altınbeşik Cave features an underground lake, offering a unique and less common natural attraction.
Can I find accommodations or amenities near the lakes?
Yes, many popular lake destinations offer various amenities. Sapanca Lake is known for its luxury glamping, spa hotels, and lakeside walking paths. The town of Eğirdir, near Lake Eğirdir, provides cozy accommodations and local cuisine. Uzungöl features charming wood-built chalets. For other lakes, it's advisable to check local listings for nearby towns and facilities.
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