When the Mediterranean Region is mentioned, the turquoise sea and the Taurus Mountains are the first to come to mind. Yet another natural wonder that can be added to these beauties is the Lake District (Göller Yöresi). This enchanting geography spans five provinces, lying across the borders of the Mediterranean, Aegean, and Central Anatolia regions. The term “Lake District of the Mediterranean” is often heard, though its details are not well known. If you travel to Antalya by car, discovering the Lake District is entirely in your hands. By following this route, you can explore areas filled with the unique natural beauty of the Mediterranean.

Information About the Lakes of the Region

In Turkey, the Lake District owes its name to the close clustering of many lakes, spreading across the provinces of Antalya, Afyon, Burdur, Isparta, and Konya. The area encompasses 16 lakes of various sizes, including Acıgöl, Akşehir, Akgöl, Burdur, Beyşehir, Gavur, Işıklı, Ilgın, Eğirdir, Eber, Kovada, Salda, Karamık, Suğla, Yarışlı, and Karataş.

What defines the region’s common geographical character is not only the proximity of its lakes. Its topography and the predominantly tectonic origins of the lakes also play a key role. In total, 65 lakes once existed in the region, though 31 have since dried up and 11 are under the threat of drying today.

Situated at the junction of the Mediterranean and Central Anatolia, the region exhibits both Mediterranean and continental climate features. Its elevation averages around 1,000 meters, increasing from west to east. Beyşehir Lake, Turkey’s third-largest, sits at 1,121 meters above sea level.

The water characteristics of the lakes vary: some are fresh, while others are salty or bitter. Burdur Lake and Acıgöl are “closed basins” with no outflow, while Beyşehir and Eğirdir have outlets and thus are freshwater lakes. Due to the prevalence of limestone, karstic formations are common. Alongside tectonic formations, there are also smaller volcanic-origin lakes.

The Lakes of the Lake District

Turkey is a remarkably lake-rich country. Particularly in Central Anatolia and the Mediterranean, these lakes form a paradise for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike. From Acıgöl to Yarışlı Lake, each of these fascinating stops offers both tranquility and the chance to explore nature’s diversity.

Acıgöl

Located between Denizli and Afyonkarahisar, Acıgöl derives its name from the bitterness of its waters. Its most notable feature is its richness in sodium sulfate, which is even used in local industry. While not very touristic, the lake is a favorite spot for nature photographers and birdwatchers. The white crystalline layers that form on the water’s surface are especially striking.

Akgöl

Situated in the Ereğli district of Konya, Akgöl is an important part of the local wetland ecosystem. Surrounded by reeds, it hosts a wide variety of migratory birds. Flamingos are among the most admired species for visitors. Although the area is under protection, the lake occasionally shrinks due to diminishing water resources.

Akşehir Lake

Immortalized in Turkish culture through Nasreddin Hodja’s famous “yogurt starter” tale, Akşehir Lake lies between Konya and Afyonkarahisar. Sadly, in recent years, it has shrunk dramatically and faces the threat of drying up. Nevertheless, walking along its shores and watching the sunset remain delightful experiences.

Beyşehir Lake

As Turkey’s largest freshwater lake, Beyşehir is one of Konya’s most valuable natural treasures. It contains more than 30 islands and is lined with small fishing villages. Located within a national park, the lake is under protection. Visitors can enjoy boat tours or hiking trails in the surrounding area, and fishing for pike and carp is also popular.

Burdur Lake

Located very close to Burdur city center, this lake is considered the city’s symbol. Though its salty and soda-rich waters are not ideal for swimming, its scenery and bird diversity are highly appealing. Most notably, it is home to the world’s largest population of the endemic white-headed duck. However, rapid water loss has caused the lake to shrink in recent years.

Eber Lake

Eber Lake lies about 10 km from Afyonkarahisar’s Bolvadin district and is one of Turkey’s most important wetlands. Famous for its vast reed beds, it is particularly known for its “floating reed islets,” which move across the lake under the influence of wind and currents, creating a unique landscape. The lake is also home to many bird species. Fishing and reed harvesting provide livelihoods for residents, with reed-based products contributing to the regional economy.

Eğirdir Lake

One of Isparta’s best-known natural wonders, Eğirdir Lake is vibrant with tourism activity. It features two small islands, Can Ada and Yeşil Ada, and offers opportunities for camping, swimming, and water sports along its shores. Famous apple orchards in the surrounding district add to the lake’s scenic charm. Eğirdir is a multifaceted destination for both nature and cultural tourism.

Ilgın (Çavuşçu) Lake

Located in Konya’s Ilgın district, Çavuşçu Lake is known as a nesting area for flamingos, ducks, and other bird species. Combined with Ilgın’s thermal springs, the lake is an added attraction for visitors. It is a particularly pleasant stop for those interested in nature walks.

Karamık Lake

Near the town of Çay in Afyonkarahisar, Karamık Lake’s extensive reed beds make it ideal for birdwatching. Surrounded by a wetland ecosystem, the area comes alive, especially in spring. The lake’s unspoiled, tranquil nature is its most striking feature.

Karataş Lake

Located in Burdur’s Yeşilova district, Karataş Lake is relatively small yet valuable for its migratory bird species. Untouched and serene, it has few visitors beyond birdwatchers, making it perfect for those seeking solitude in nature.

Kovada Lake

Just south of Eğirdir, Kovada Lake lies within a national park. Renowned for its hiking trails, the park offers paths winding through forested areas that lead down to the lake. Though smaller than Eğirdir, Kovada is more peaceful and intimate.

Salda Lake

Recently one of Turkey’s most famous lakes, Salda is located in Burdur’s Yeşilova district. With its white sandy shores and turquoise waters, it is often called the “Maldives of Turkey.” Yet it is a fragile ecosystem, enriched with magnesium that gives the lake its unique appearance. Swimming is permitted, but some areas are under protection. Salda stands out as one of the most visually striking lakes in the region.

Yarışlı Lake

Situated near Burdur’s Karamanlı district, Yarışlı Lake is known for its salty waters. In dry summers, its surface often cracks, but it remains an important site for bird diversity. Being less well known, it offers visitors a peaceful and tranquil setting.