What if you want to spend the day somewhere in nature, somewhere outside of the top-rated touristic attractions...
No worries, there are countless hidden beauties surrounding the city of Antalya, away from the crowds.
Antalya and the Lakes Region (Turkish Lakeland) in the western Mediterranean Region are extremely lucky with natural water resources, as the name suggests.
In this article, we have collected 10 charming lakes in this region of Turkey that are waiting for nature lovers.
1. Oymapınar Dam
Oymapınar Dam on the Manavgat River is located in the Taurus Mountains, about 80 km east of Antalya and 25 km inland from the coast. It's the largest dam in the region and the third largest dam in Turkey.
Oymapınar Dam receives many visitors because of its enchanting natural beauty and cooling effect in the hot summer. If you are looking for a different experience for a day, other than hitting the beaches around Antalya, this is a perfect alternative region to visit with its fascinating natural atmosphere!
2. Manavgat Dam
One of the top activities recommended around Manavgat is definitely a boat cruise on the Manavgat River. It's a great way to enjoy a full day of relaxation and fun, exploring in the region's most impressive nature.
Manavgat River's source is in the Taurus Mountains and it flows into the Mediterranean Sea after passing through the city of Manavgat.
Manavgat River is great for water sports in Antalya. Indeed, rafting on the river and a safari around the waterfall are some of the most popular activities in the region.
3. Lake Baranda
Lake Baranda is located in the Elmalı - Islamlar Village in Antalya with an altitude of 1,500 meters. You can get Lake Baranda by turning towards "İslamlar Village" on the Elmalı-Kaş highway.
Lake Baranda has nature's most magical colors in all seasons. Juniper and Taurus Cedar forests cover the area.
This is the perfect place for nature walks. It has a 10 km hiking trail around the lake.
Read More: Discover 100+ Things To Do in Antalya!
4. Lake Salda
Lake Salda is a medium-sized crater lake in southwestern Turkey, in an area known as "the region of lakes". It's in the Yeşilova district in the Burdur province. It is about 157 km from Antalya and 60 km west of the Burdur province.
Lake Salda used to be one of the hidden natural beauties in Turkey, although in recent years, its popularity has been rapidly growing. It's magical white sands, glassy turquoise waters, and fantastic beauty has aroused the curiosity of many.
This interest is so right, because there is something very unusual about this lake! First of all, this crater lake is very different in terms of morphology. Secondly, Lake Salda is still alive with the special bacteria living in its sands!
- More information about the amazing Lake Salda in Burdur
5. Burdur Lake
Burdur Lake is a tectonic lake located between the Isparta and Burdur provinces in southwest Turkey. It is about 148 km from the Antalya city center (2 hours by car).
Burdur Lake is one of the most important wetlands on the Eurasia - Africa migration route. Thus, the Burdur Lake Basin is a significant habitat for many bird species.
On the northern part of the lake, you can see the Hellenistic ruins of the ancient city of Lysinia.
The ruins of the city lie on a hill on the west side of Lake Burdur. Several terraces and the base of a statue of Roman Emperor Hadrian were found here. There are no remains of a city wall. Ceramics and architectural parts were found at the foot of the hill.
- More information about Burdur Lake in Burdur, Turkey.
6. Eğrigöl
Eğrigöl is located on the border of Antalya and Konya, in the foothills of the Geyik Mountains. This hidden lake, at an altitude of 2,350 meters is in what is called the "Alps of Antalya".
Did you know that you can even play in the snow during the hot summer time in Antalya? Eğrigöl is just one of the places you may see snow the same day you're enjoying the beaches in Antalya.
It's possible to see both endemic plants in the untouched green nature and snowdrifts at the same time around Eğrigöl. It's frequently visited by nature photographers, especially during the summer months.
7. Lake Yeşil
Lake Yeşil is located in the Kaş district of Antalya, at the foot of Akdağ Mountain, the highest point in the western Taurus Mountains.
Lake Yeşil (Green Lake) is a crater lake located right below the summit of Akdağ, and takes its name from the color of the water. Lake Yeşil covers an area of 50 decares. The water flowing through the rocks is taken into pipes and used as drinking water in the towns of Kaş, Demre, and Elmalı in Antalya.
Another natural beauty on the Gömbe Plateau where Green Lake is located is Uçarsu Waterfall. Read about amazing waterfalls in Antalya.
8. Dipsiz Lake
Dipsiz Lake is located on the border of the Akseki district in Antalya and the Bozkır district in Konya. It stands on the northern slopes of the Taurus Mountains at an altitude of 1,702 meters.
It is a popular area for local people from Antalya and Konya to spend the day with a picnic, especially on weekends. Camping, swimming, and fishing are all possible here.
Discover water sports in Antalya.
9. Avlan Lake
Avlan Lake is a karstic lake located in the Elmalı district in Antalya. The lake is 1,030 m above sea level and covers an area of 850 hectares.
157 bird species have been determined to use Avlan Lake as a shelter. There are agricultural lands as well as juniper, red pine, and cedar forests around the lake.
This area is one of the best preserved cedar forests in the world, with 2,000 - 2,500 year old giant cedars.
You can camp by Avlan Lake. It's only 18 km from Antalya city center.
10. Titreyen Lake
Titreyen Lake is located east of Manavgat and the ancient city of Side, in the place where the Manavgat River flows. It's 2.5 kilometers from the district center.
It doesn't have a connection with the sea anymore as a result of a change in the bed of the Manavgat River. Many bird species that have crossed the Mediterranean for centuries, stay in Titreyengöl during the winter months. Apart from the migratory birds, there are also 382 plant species, 2 of which are endemic.
Situated east of Sorgun, Titreyengöl is the name of a large tourist area with many accommodation facilities, nestled in pine trees between the lake and the sea. Titreyen Lake is surrounded by rare pine trees. Here you can hike in the forest. There are farms around Titreyen Lake, where you can enjoy horseback riding.
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Continue reading:
Discover the amazing Lake Salda in Burdur and Burdur Lake in Burdur.
Also, check out the best islands to visit in Antalya and national parks in Antalya.