Have you ever dreamed of visiting a hidden paradise, where you can enjoy the serene and tranquil beauty of nature, away from the hustle and bustle of the city life? If yes, then you should definitely add Uzungol to your bucket list. Uzungol is a stunning lake and village in Trabzon, Turkey, that offers a perfect escape for those who are looking for a relaxing and refreshing vacation. Uzungol is surrounded by lush green mountains, cascading waterfalls, and charming wooden houses, creating a picturesque scenery that will take your breath away. Uzungol is also a paradise for adventure seekers, as it offers a variety of activities, such as hiking, camping, fishing, horse riding, and ATV tours, that will make your trip more exciting and memorable.
In this article, you will discover everything you need to know about Uzungol, a hidden paradise in Trabzon, Turkey. You will learn about its location, attractions, activities, weather, accommodation, and food. You will also find out why Uzungol is a must-visit place for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Location and History of Uzungol
Uzungol is located in the Çaykara district of Trabzon, a province in the Black Sea region of Turkey. Uzungol is about 99 kilometers away from Trabzon city center, and 19 kilometers away from Çaykara town center. You can reach Uzungol by car or by public transportation from Trabzon or Çaykara. The journey takes about 1.5 hours by car, and 2 hours by bus. The road to Uzungol is scenic and winding, passing through forests, villages, and bridges. You can also stop by some viewpoints along the way, where you can admire the panoramic views of the mountains and the lake.
Uzungol means "long lake" in Turkish, and it is named after the natural lake that lies at the heart of the village. The lake was formed by a landslide that blocked the flow of the Haldizen Stream, creating a dam. The lake is about 1,000 meters long, 500 meters wide, and 15 meters deep. The lake is fed by the melting snow and rainwater from the surrounding mountains, and it changes its color according to the season and the weather. The lake is home to various species of fish, such as trout, carp, and eel.
Uzungol has a rich and fascinating history, dating back to the ancient times. According to a legend, the lake was discovered by a shepherd named Uzun Ali, who was looking for his lost sheep. He followed the sound of a waterfall, and found a beautiful lake surrounded by mountains. He decided to settle there with his family, and named the place Uzungol after himself. He also built a wooden mosque by the lake, which still stands today as one of the landmarks of Uzungol.
Uzungol was a hidden gem for a long time, until it was discovered by Arab tourists in the 1990s. Since then, Uzungol has become a popular destination for domestic and foreign tourists, especially from the Middle East. Uzungol attracts tourists with its natural beauty, its peaceful atmosphere, and its hospitable people. Uzungol also offers a cultural exchange, as the locals and the visitors share their traditions, customs, and cuisines.
Attractions and Activities in Uzungol
Uzungol has a lot to offer for its visitors, from its natural attractions to its cultural attractions. Here are some of the most famous tourist places in Uzungol that you should not miss:
- Uzungol Lake: The lake is the main attraction of Uzungol, and it is a sight to behold. You can enjoy the beauty of the lake by walking around its shore, or by taking a boat ride. You can also rent a bicycle or a horse carriage, and explore the lake and the village. The lake is especially beautiful in the morning and in the evening, when the sun reflects on its surface, creating a magical effect. You can also see the reflection of the mountains and the clouds on the lake, creating a stunning contrast. The lake is also a great place for fishing, as you can catch some fresh and delicious trout from the lake. You can also enjoy a picnic by the lake, or have a cup of tea or coffee at one of the cafes by the lake.
- Waterfalls: Uzungol is blessed with several waterfalls, that add to its charm and beauty. You can visit some of the waterfalls, such as the Gölbaşı Waterfall, the Şekersu Waterfall, and the Demirkapı Waterfall, and enjoy the refreshing and soothing sound of the water. You can also take some amazing photos of the waterfalls, as they create a perfect backdrop for your pictures. You can also swim in some of the waterfalls, such as the Demirkapı Waterfall, and cool off in the summer.
- Hiking Trails: Uzungol is a paradise for hiking lovers, as it offers a variety of hiking trails, that will take you to some of the most beautiful and scenic spots in Uzungol. You can hike to some of the plateaus, such as the Yaylaönü Plateau, the Sultan Murat Plateau, and the Sekersu Plateau, and enjoy the panoramic views of the mountains and the lake. You can also hike to some of the peaks, such as the Karçal Peak, the Dumanlı Peak, and the Soğanlı Peak, and challenge yourself with some steep and rocky paths. You can also hike to some of the historical and cultural sites, such as the Uzungol Mosque, the Uzungol Cemetery, and the Uzungol Museum, and learn more about the history and culture of Uzungol.
- Other Activities: Uzungol also offers other activities, that will make your trip more exciting and memorable. You can try some of the adventure sports, such as horse riding, ATV tours, and ziplining, and have some adrenaline rush. You can also try some of the winter sports, such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, and have some fun in the snow. You can also try some of the local crafts, such as weaving, knitting, and wood carving, and learn some new skills. You can also try some of the local games, such as backgammon, chess, and cards, and have some friendly competition.
Weather and Best Time to Visit Uzungol
Uzungol has a temperate climate, with four distinct seasons. The average temperature in Uzungol is about 12 degrees Celsius, and the average rainfall is about 1,200 millimeters. The weather in Uzungol varies according to the season, and each season has its own charm and beauty.
- Spring: Spring is one of the best times to visit Uzungol, as the weather is mild and pleasant, and the nature is blooming and colorful. The spring season in Uzungol lasts from March to May, and the average temperature is about 15 degrees Celsius. The spring season is also the time when the lake is at its fullest, and the waterfalls are at their most powerful. The spring season is also the time when the flowers and the trees are blossoming, and the meadows and the hills are covered with green and yellow. The spring season is also the time when the birds and the butterflies are flying, and the air is fresh and fragrant.
- Summer: Summer is another great time to visit Uzungol, as the weather is warm and sunny, and the nature is vibrant and lively. The summer season in Uzungol lasts from June to August, and the average temperature is about 25 degrees Celsius. The summer season is also the time when the lake is at its clearest, and the water is sparkling and inviting. The summer season is also the time when the activities and the festivals are at their peak, and the village is bustling and lively. The summer season is also the time when the fruits and the vegetables are ripe and delicious, and the markets are full and colorful.
- Autumn: Autumn is another beautiful time to visit Uzungol, as the weather is cool and crisp, and the nature is changing and stunning. The autumn season in Uzungol lasts from September to November, and the average temperature is about 15 degrees Celsius. The autumn season is also the time when the lake is at its most calm, and the water is reflecting and mesmerizing. The autumn season is also the time when the leaves and the flowers are changing their colors, and the forests and the gardens are painted with red, orange, and yellow. The autumn season is also the time when the mushrooms and the chestnuts are growing and tasty, and the dishes are warm and hearty.
- Winter: Winter is another magical time to visit Uzungol, as the weather is cold and snowy, and the nature is frozen and enchanting. The winter season in Uzungol lasts from December to February, and the average temperature is about 5 degrees Celsius. The winter season is also the time when the lake is at its most mysterious, and the water is frozen and sparkling. The winter season is also the time when the snow and the ice are covering the mountains and the houses, and the scenery is white and dazzling.
Accommodation and Food in Uzungol
Uzungol has a range of accommodation options, from hotels, guesthouses, and camping sites, that suit different budgets and preferences. You can choose to stay near the lake, where you can enjoy the views and the convenience, or you can choose to stay in the mountains, where you can enjoy the tranquility and the privacy. Here are some of the accommodation options in Uzungol that you can consider:
- Hotels: Uzungol has many hotels, that offer comfortable and cozy rooms, with amenities such as Wi-Fi, TV, heating, and private bathrooms. Some of the hotels also have restaurants, cafes, and shops, where you can enjoy some delicious food and drinks, and buy some souvenirs. Some of the hotels also have gardens, terraces, and balconies, where you can relax and admire the scenery. Some of the hotels also have spas, pools, and saunas, where you can pamper yourself and rejuvenate. Some of the hotels also have activities, such as fishing, hiking, and horse riding, where you can have some fun and adventure. Some of the hotels that you can check out are: Sera Lake Resort Hotel, Uzungol Soylu Hotel, and Inan Kardesler Hotel.
- Guesthouses: Uzungol also has many guesthouses, that offer simple and affordable rooms, with basic facilities such as Wi-Fi, TV, heating, and shared bathrooms. Some of the guesthouses also have kitchens, where you can cook your own meals, and living rooms, where you can socialize with other guests. Some of the guesthouses also have gardens, where you can enjoy the fresh air and the greenery. Some of the guesthouses also have bikes, where you can explore the village and the lake. Some of the guesthouses that you can check out are: Uzungol Apart, Uzungol Villa, and Uzungol Holiday Home.
- Camping Sites: Uzungol also has some camping sites, where you can experience the nature and the adventure of Uzungol in a more authentic and rustic way. You can bring your own tent, or rent one from the camping site. You can also use the facilities of the camping site, such as toilets, showers, and electricity. You can also enjoy the activities of the camping site, such as bonfires, barbecues, and games. You can also enjoy the views of the camping site, such as the stars, the moon, and the sunrise. Some of the camping sites that you can check out are: Uzungol Camping, Uzungol Nature Camp, and Uzungol Forest Camp.
Uzungol also has a variety of food options, from local dishes to international cuisines, that will satisfy your taste buds and your appetite. You can try some of the local dishes, such as mıhlama, kuymak, hamsi, and balık ekmek, that are made with fresh and organic ingredients, such as cheese, butter, corn flour, anchovies, and bread. You can also try some of the international cuisines, such as Arabic, Iranian, and Pakistani, that are influenced by the culture and the preferences of the tourists. You can also try some of the desserts, such as baklava, künefe, and sütlaç, that are sweet and delicious, and made with nuts, syrup, cheese, and rice. You can also try some of the drinks, such as tea, coffee, and ayran, that are refreshing and energizing, and made with tea leaves, coffee beans, and yogurt. Here are some of the restaurants that you can check out in Uzungol:
- Mıhlama Restaurant: This restaurant is famous for its mıhlama, a traditional dish of Uzungol, that is made with cheese, butter, and corn flour. The restaurant also serves other local dishes, such as kuymak, hamsi, and balık ekmek. The restaurant has a cozy and rustic atmosphere, with wooden tables and chairs, and a fireplace. The restaurant also has a terrace, where you can enjoy the views of the lake and the mountains.
- Uzungol Sofrasi: This restaurant is famous for its Arabic cuisine, that is popular among the Arab tourists. The restaurant serves a variety of dishes, such as kebabs, hummus, falafel, and tabbouleh. The restaurant has a modern and elegant atmosphere, with colorful and comfortable sofas, and a chandelier. The restaurant also has a garden, where you can enjoy the fresh air and the greenery.
- Sera Lake Cafe: This cafe is famous for its desserts, such as baklava, künefe, and sütlaç. The cafe also serves other snacks, such as sandwiches, burgers, and pizzas. The cafe has a relaxing and cheerful atmosphere, with bright and colorful walls, and a piano. The cafe also has a lake view, where you can enjoy the beauty and the calmness of the lake.
Conclusion
Uzungol is a hidden paradise in Trabzon, Turkey, that will make you fall in love with its natural beauty, its peaceful atmosphere, and its hospitable people. Uzungol has something for everyone, whether you are looking for a relaxing and refreshing vacation, or an exciting and adventurous trip. Uzungol will also give you a cultural exchange, as you will learn more about the history and culture of Uzungol, and share your traditions and customs with the locals and the visitors. Uzungol is a must-visit place for nature lovers and adventure seekers, and you will not regret visiting this amazing destination.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Uzungol today, and discover the hidden paradise in Trabzon, Turkey. We hope you enjoyed this article, and we would love to hear your feedback and comments. Please share this article with your friends and family, and let them know about Uzungol, a hidden paradise in Trabzon, Turkey.